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A beautifully set table makes a holiday meal feel like an occasion, whether you’re hosting a big Christmas dinner or a relaxed brunch. The good news is that a festive table is more about layering and a few thoughtful details than about buying new dishes. Here’s how to set a Christmas table step by step, with centerpiece ideas for every style and budget.
Start with a color scheme
Pick two or three colors and carry them through the linens, napkins, candles and centerpiece. A few combinations that always work:
- Classic: red, green and white with gold accents.
- Natural: cream, sage and wood with fresh greenery.
- Winter white: white, silver and clear glass.
- Jewel tones: deep green or burgundy with gold.
If your everyday dishes are white, almost any color scheme will work with them.
Layer the table
Tablecloth or runner
A tablecloth sets the base color. A runner down the middle is a good alternative on a beautiful wooden table and makes a natural “stage” for the centerpiece.
Chargers and plates
Chargers (large decorative plates that sit under the dinner plate) add instant polish. Layer a dinner plate, then a salad plate on top.
Napkins
Cloth napkins in a seasonal color or plaid make the biggest difference for the least effort. Fold them simply, then tie them with ribbon or twine and tuck in a sprig of rosemary or pine.
Glassware and cutlery
Set forks on the left and knives (blade facing the plate) and spoons on the right, with glasses above the knife. For a relaxed meal, there’s no need to put out every piece.
Centerpiece ideas
Keep centerpieces low so guests can see and talk to each other across the table.
Greenery and candles
A simple garland of fresh or faux greenery down the middle, with candles in glass holders tucked in between, suits almost any style. Add pinecones, cranberries or wood bead garlands for color.
Ornament bowls and vases
Fill a glass bowl, hurricane or vase with shatterproof ornaments in your color scheme. It’s quick, inexpensive and easy to change every year.
Figurines and vignettes
A small grouping of holiday figurines, such as Santa, snowmen or a folk-art scene, adds personality, especially on a kitchen or breakfast table. Set them on a tray or cake stand so they’re easy to move when it’s time to serve.
Repurposed bottles
Clean, empty glass bottles of different heights make charming candle holders or bud vases for a single stem of greenery or berries.
Family photos
For a sentimental touch, tuck a few framed family photos from past Christmases among the greenery.
Place cards and personal touches
- Tiny boxwood wreaths make a lovely holder for handwritten place cards.
- Write names on ornaments or gift tags and leave one at each place as a take-home favor.
- A small chocolate, cookie or candy cane on each plate is a sweet welcome.
Setting a kids’ table
Cover the table with brown kraft paper and leave out crayons so kids can draw. A few festive cups and a small, unbreakable centerpiece keep it fun and practical. If the kids’ table is in another room, seat an adult nearby who can help with cutting food and refilling drinks.
Coffee table and kitchen table ideas
The dining table isn’t the only one that can be festive. A tray on the coffee table with a candle, a small plant and a holiday book looks inviting, and a bowl of clementines with a sprig of greenery brightens a kitchen table. Our Christmas kitchen ideas have more inspiration.
Our picks for the table
For a whimsical touch on a kitchen or breakfast table, the small Doghouse Christmas Figurine (a family giving gifts to their pup) works well in a vignette with a few mini trees and candles, especially for pet lovers. And for an easy ornament-bowl centerpiece, the shatterproof 30-Piece Christmas Ball Ornaments come in several coordinated color mixes.
Shop the gear
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A simple hosting timeline
- A week before: Count chairs, plates, glasses and napkins, and borrow or buy anything missing. Wash dishes that have been stored all year.
- Two or three days before: Iron the tablecloth and napkins, and plan your centerpiece.
- The day before: Set the table, arrange the centerpiece and lay out serving dishes with a sticky note saying what goes in each one.
- On the day: Add fresh greenery, fill water glasses and light the candles just before guests sit down.
Setting up a buffet
For larger gatherings, a buffet often works better than a fully set table. Stack plates at the start, put cutlery and napkins at the end so guests don’t juggle them while serving, and place a festive arrangement at the back of the buffet where it won’t be in the way.
Candle safety at the table
- Never leave lit candles unattended, and blow them out before you leave the room.
- Keep flames well away from greenery, napkins, paper and anything that can catch fire.
- Use sturdy holders that won’t tip, and keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
- Consider flameless LED candles, especially on a busy table or a kids’ table.
Planning the menu
Once the table is set, you’ll need something delicious to put on it. See our Christmas dinner ideas, our Christmas brunch ideas and our favorite Christmas appetizers.
FAQ
How far ahead can I set the table?
You can set it the day before. Cover the plates and glasses with a clean cloth to keep off dust, and add fresh greenery and food on the day.
How do I make a small table feel festive without crowding it?
Use a narrow runner, a single low centerpiece and skip chargers. Let napkins and place cards carry the color. For more decorating ideas, see our Christmas mantel ideas.