A beautifully styled Christmas dining table can transform your festive celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a cosy December gathering for the first time or the main event on Christmas day, thoughtful décor brings warmth, atmosphere, and a sense of occasion to your dining space.
Here are some practical tips and inspiring ideas to help you create a festive tablescape that reflects your home and your hosting style.
Choose the right dining table as your centrepiece
Your dining table sets the tone for your festive look. If you often welcome extra guests, an extending dining table is a practical choice that offers flexible seating and extra room when needed. Solid oak tables bring natural warmth, and pair beautifully with both traditional and contemporary Christmas décor.
Venice dining table set | Belgrave sideboard | Ohio rug
Round tables create a sociable, intimate setting, while rectangular designs suit larger rooms and offer a touch of formality. Explore our full range of dining tables to find the shape that best complements your space.
Mix and match your dining chairs for a relaxed, festive feel
Henley dresser | Lars chairs | Newton dining table
Blending different dining chair styles creates a relaxed and inviting feel in your eating area. Try combining wooden chairs with upholstered designs to add comfort and subtle contrast. Soft neutral tones such as pale oak, cream, or grey are ideal if you want your table décor to stand out.
A dining bench is a useful addition for extra seating and works particularly well for casual gatherings. Introduce cushions and lightweight throws for seasonal texture without overwhelming the space.
Layer festive table linens and textures
Table linens help introduce depth and colour to your tablescape. Tablecloths, runners, and placemats in complementary shades bring structure while softening your styling. Natural fabrics like cotton or linen complement wooden dining sets and pair well with a wide range of festive palettes. Whether you prefer rich reds, fresh whites, forest greens, or calming neutrals, layering fabrics adds instant warmth.
Create a striking festive focal point
Parquet dining table | @thelightshesees
A centrepiece should draw the eye while still allowing space for plates, dishes, and conversation. Natural foliage garlands, clusters of candles, or bauble-lined place settings make simple and effective displays. Remember to keep your arrangements low enough so guests can see one another and connect easily.
If you need extra space for serving platters or beverages, a nearby sideboard or console table is a practical support zone. Read our article on how to style a drinks cabinet for more festive décor ideas.
Festive lighting for Christmas dining
Hercules dining table | @dorotakowaiczyk
Lighting is a simple way to elevate your Christmas table. Use a combination of overhead lights on a gentle setting, table lamps, candles, and fairy lights to create a warm glow. Mirrors and glass accessories help bounce soft light around the room, adding a touch of magic. Warm white lighting is the most flattering for festive dining and keeps the atmosphere cosy and welcoming.
Finishing touches for your Christmas table décor
Small details complete your Christmas table. Handwritten place cards, reusable crackers, and natural touches such as rosemary sprigs or cinnamon sticks add charm.
If you have a smaller table, consider decorating the surrounding surfaces with a mantel garland or subtle fairy lights to extend the festive atmosphere.
Rugs, curtains, and other soft furnishings can also enhance the atmosphere of your dining room during the festive season, especially velvets and other tactile fabrics.
Christmas table styling festive themes
We’ve curated a few examples of Christmas table looks that show how these principles come to life. Each one offers a different take on festive styling, helping you find a direction that suits your home.
Nordic-inspired simplicity
Parquet dining table | @thelightshesees
Lifestyle photographer Lisa Northam, @thelightshesees, has created a calm Scandinavian look with the Parquet dining table. Simple candles, white linens, and natural textures keep the palette soft and serene.
Classic red and green
Credit: Talking Tables
Red and green remain timeless Christmas favourites. Printed napkins, paper decorations, and sprigs of holly create a cheerful and nostalgic setting that feels instantly festive.
Durham dining table | @lifeinthewolds
For a simpler, more organic approach, introduce this traditional colour story through foraged foliage across the tablescape, featuring fresh greenery and rich berry tones.
Plum and pine elegance
Discover the beautiful pairing of deep plum with evergreen shades to create a refined feel with rich seasonal depth. Interiors creator @mo_morshuis shows how these colours add sophistication without feeling heavy.
Maximalist Christmas colour
Credit: Talking Tables
A maximalist approach embraces playful, unexpected colour combinations. Mismatched glassware, colourful candles, velvet details, and varied patterns come together to create a lively and expressive tablescape.
Snowy winter white
Scroll back chair | @athomewithnic_
Create a delicate snow-capped winter scene with pine cones, silver accents, and crisp white linens. This palette enhances natural light, creating a peaceful backdrop for Christmas meals.
You now have a range of ideas to help you design a Christmas table that suits your home, your style, and your holiday plans. Explore our collection of dining furniture and share your seasonal styling using #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome on Instagram and TikTok. For more inspiration, discover our 2025 Christmas interior trends.
