14+ Christmas Lantern Styling Ideas for a Glowing Effect
Christmas lanterns bring a soft glow and timeless charm to your holiday setup. Whether you place them on your porch, mantel, or dining table, these lantern styling ideas will light up your home with festive warmth and elegance.
1. Classic Candle Lanterns with Greenery
Place pillar candles inside lanterns and surround them with pine sprigs, berries, or eucalyptus.
Pro Tip
Use flameless candles for safety and add a cinnamon stick or pine scent for an aromatic touch.
2. Snow-Filled Lanterns
Fill the base of a lantern with faux snow and nestle a tea light or figurine inside.
Pro Tip
Add a small reindeer or mini snowman for a whimsical winter scene.
3. Mini Ornament Lanterns
Fill lanterns with small red, gold, or silver ornaments for a modern decorative twist.
Pro Tip
Use a mix of matte, glossy, and glitter finishes for added visual texture.
4. Pinecone and Ribbon Accents
Add pinecones tied with red or plaid ribbons to the handle or base of your lantern.
Pro Tip
Dust the pinecones with white paint or glitter for a snow-dusted look.
5. Hanging Lanterns on Hooks
Hang your lanterns from shepherd’s hooks along pathways or indoors for dramatic impact.
Pro Tip
Wrap the hooks with garland or string lights for extra charm.
6. Tabletop Lantern Centerpiece
Group two or three lanterns of varying heights on your dining or coffee table.
Pro Tip
Anchor the setup with a festive table runner and fresh greenery.
7. Fairy Light Lanterns
Fill lanterns with warm white string lights instead of candles for a soft and twinkling effect.
Pro Tip
Tuck in some faux snow or greenery to blend lights with natural textures.
8. Rustic Wood Lanterns with Bows
Choose wooden lanterns and tie plaid or burlap bows around the top for a farmhouse feel.
Pro Tip
Add a sprig of holly or berries to the bow for a colorful touch.
9. Window Sill Lantern Display
Line up small lanterns on the window ledge for glowing holiday charm inside and out.
Pro Tip
Use a timer setting so they automatically light up at dusk.
10. Lanterns with Christmas Figurines
Place tiny Santa, elf, or nativity figures inside the lantern for a themed display.
Pro Tip
Add small props like presents or tiny trees to complete the scene.
11. Entryway Lantern Stack
Stack two or three lanterns in different sizes near the door for a bold and welcoming look.
Pro Tip
Frame the area with garland or hang a wreath above to tie it all together.
12. Fireplace Hearth Lanterns
Position lanterns of different sizes on both sides of the fireplace hearth.
Pro Tip
Add cinnamon sticks or dried oranges inside for a festive scent.
13. Lanterns with Faux Candle Glow
Use LED flicker candles for a cozy look without the worry of open flames.
Pro Tip
Choose candles with a timer or remote for hassle-free ambiance.
14. Holiday Lantern Shelf Display
Style lanterns on a shelf alongside garlands, pinecones, and holiday books.
Pro Tip
Stick to a limited color palette like red and white or green and gold for a cohesive look.
Final Thoughts
Christmas lanterns are an easy way to add warmth, light, and festive magic to any space. With just a few thoughtful touches—like fairy lights, greenery, or ornaments—you can turn simple lanterns into glowing holiday highlights throughout your home.
