24 Christmas Door Decorating Contest Ideas
Let’s be honest—your front door is basically the first impression of your holiday spirit. You can go with a simple wreath, or you can go all out and make neighbors stop mid-walk just to admire your creativity.
If you’re thinking about entering a Christmas door decorating contest—or just want your entryway to be the talk of the block—then you’re in the right place.
I’ve rounded up 24 Christmas door decorating contest ideas that range from cozy and classic to bold and jaw-dropping.
1. Classic Evergreen Wreath
Sometimes, you can’t beat a classic. A lush evergreen wreath with red berries and a velvet bow screams Christmas without trying too hard. Add a few pinecones for texture, and you’re golden. Ever noticed how simple touches often make the biggest impact?
2. Red and Gold Elegance
If you’re going for glam, pair red and gold ornaments on a wreath or garland framing your door. It’s festive, luxurious, and gives your entryway a “wow” factor. Pro tip: Keep your gold accents minimal—too much bling can feel like Christmas Vegas.
3. Candy Cane Theme
Who says doors can’t be playful? Use red and white stripes, candy cane props, and sweet-themed garlands to make your door look like a giant peppermint. Kids (and your inner child) will love it.
4. Snowy Wonderland
White lights, faux snow, and icicle garlands create a magical winter wonderland effect. Bonus: You don’t even need snow outside to pull this off. I tried this last year, and honestly, the door looked like it belonged in a holiday movie.
5. Rustic Charm
Embrace the farmhouse aesthetic with burlap ribbons, wooden ornaments, and pinecones. It’s cozy, approachable, and makes your door feel warm and welcoming. Honestly, rustic is my go-to when I don’t have time to go full-on glam.
6. Nordic Minimalist
Keep it chic with simple greenery, a neutral-colored wreath, and subtle white lights. The Scandinavian vibe is all about clean lines and natural textures, perfect if you hate clutter but love style.
7. Red Velvet Ribbon Magic
Velvet ribbons instantly elevate any door. Layer them, make big bows, and wrap garlands to create a luxurious look. IMO, velvet is one of those materials that just works for Christmas.
8. Poinsettia Power
Nothing says Christmas quite like bright red poinsettias. Combine them with greenery or small ornaments for a vibrant, eye-catching arrangement. FYI, faux poinsettias work great if you don’t want to worry about watering.
9. Holiday Lights Explosion
Sometimes, more is more. Wrap your door in twinkling lights, LED garlands, and glowing ornaments. Warning: you might attract more carolers than intended. But hey, isn’t that the point?
10. Wreaths on Wreaths
Take a cue from Pinterest and stack smaller wreaths on a larger one. It adds depth and visual interest without overcomplicating your design. Plus, it’s easier than hanging multiple separate wreaths perfectly.
11. Farmhouse Sign Combo
Add a festive sign like “Merry Christmas” or “Joy” in the middle of your wreath. Wooden signs add charm and make your door feel personalized. Last year, my neighbor did this, and honestly, I spent five minutes just admiring it.
12. Outdoor Ornaments
Use large outdoor ornaments hanging on garlands around your doorframe. Big shiny balls are surprisingly effective and make your door feel like it’s part of the tree itself.
13. DIY Snowflakes
Cut out oversized paper snowflakes and attach them to garlands or directly on the door. It’s cheap, customizable, and surprisingly classy. Plus, your kids can join in, making it a fun family project.
14. Gingerbread Theme
Fake gingerbread decorations, candy props, and brown ribbon create a sweet, whimsical look. Honestly, your door might smell like gingerbread even if it doesn’t—illusion counts in decorating, right?
15. Rustic and Sparkly
Combine natural elements like twigs and pinecones with glittery accents. The balance between rustic and sparkle makes your door feel festive without being tacky. It’s my personal favorite because it’s effortless yet effective.
16. Frosted Greenery
Spray-paint some greenery with a frosted or snowy effect, then wrap it around your door or wreath. It instantly adds a magical winter vibe. I tried this last year, and people actually asked if it was real snow.
17. Holiday Character Theme
Santa, elves, or reindeer—choose a character and make them the centerpiece of your door. Props, cutouts, or garlands featuring your chosen character make the door fun and interactive. Honestly, who doesn’t love a door that tells a story?
18. Bells and Ribbons
Big bells paired with ribbons create movement and sound. Every time the wind blows, your door jingles—it’s a festive sensory bonus. Bonus: passersby get instant holiday cheer.
19. Woodland Theme
Use twigs, acorns, pinecones, and greenery to create a woodland-inspired door. Add a few little deer or bird figurines for charm. It’s sophisticated but approachable, perfect for neighbors who appreciate style without over-the-top glitter.
20. Monochrome Magic
Pick a single color like all red, silver, or gold, and stick to it. Monochrome doors can be striking if you mix textures like velvet, metallics, and matte finishes. IMO, it’s a high-impact strategy that looks expensive but isn’t.
21. Wrapped Gift Door
Turn your door into a giant wrapped present with a bold bow and ribbon. Simple, fun, and playful—kids and adults alike will stop to admire it. Last year, I did a metallic gold ribbon with a big red bow, and it honestly looked like the door itself was gifting my house.
22. Holiday Lanterns
Hang small lanterns on a wreath or garland around your door. Candlelight (or LED lights) creates a warm glow, perfect for chilly nights. It’s cozy and classy without being too fussy.
23. Front Door Garland
Instead of a wreath, use a full garland draped around your doorframe. Add bows, ornaments, and twinkle lights for drama. It’s a bold look, and honestly, I think garlands frame doors better than wreaths in most cases.
24. Personalized Door Decor
Add names, initials, or a family motto to your decorations. Custom touches make your door unique and memorable. Bonus: it’s hard to forget which house belongs to you when walking past on a busy street.
Tips for Winning a Christmas Door Contest
- Balance is key: Don’t overload with ornaments; let your main elements shine.
- Mix textures: Velvet, greenery, wood, and metal add visual interest.
- Use lights strategically: Twinkle lights draw eyes and add warmth.
- Layer elements: Wreaths, garlands, ribbons, and props in layers = depth.
- Stay thematic: A cohesive theme is always more impressive than random decorations.
- DIY accents: Handmade touches stand out in a contest.
- Think about the frame: Don’t ignore the doorframe—it’s part of the canvas.
Final Thoughts
Decorating your door for Christmas isn’t just about winning a contest—it’s about showing off your personality and holiday spirit. Whether you choose classic elegance, playful whimsy, rustic charm, or bold glamour, the right door décor sets the tone for your home and delights anyone passing by.
Personally, my favorite combo is rustic charm with subtle sparkle—it’s approachable, festive, and doesn’t require a professional decorator. Plus, you get bonus points for making neighbors stop mid-walk and say, “Whoa, that’s impressive.”
So, are you ready to turn your front door into the star of the neighborhood this holiday season? Grab your ribbons, lights, and ornaments, and let the decorating fun begin. Trust me, your door will thank you—and your Instagram followers probably will too.
