Christmas Decor Without a Tree

While nothing beats the smell of a real tree, there are times when a holiday evergreen isn’t the best fit for your space. Whether you’re tired of cleaning up pine needles or you simply lack the room for a traditional tree, these festive alternatives will still help spread Christmas cheer and impress your guests.

Embrace the minimalist aesthetic with this DIY trio of birch bare trees adorned with glittering birds for a grouping that looks straight out of a winter fairytale. To make the tree, use a craft punch to create circles in varying sizes, roll into cones, and glue to a wooden skewer. Finish the design with paper circus performers for a whimsical holiday display that will be a conversation starter at parties this season.

If you don’t have a green thumb, this southern-inspired cactus Christmas tree from Sugar and Cloth is the perfect solution. This faux tannenbaum can be set up on an entryway console, bookshelf, or coffee table and will continue to shine from October well into the new year.

If you don’t have the time or the space for a full-scale merrymaking project, these quick and easy alternative christmas decor ideas are just as fun. A picture frame, doorframe, or even a shelf can be trimmed with garland made from skinny tinsel, metallic streamers, paper chains, or dried orange slices for an accent that’s as stylish as it is simple. Alternatively, stack galvanized funnels in various sizes to ring in the holidays. Or, drape them with twine and bakers twine and fill with ornaments for a display that’s just as festive as any tree.