How can I decorate if I have small kids or pets?

Keep fragile ornaments and candles out of reach. Opt for soft decorations like fabric bows and plastic ornaments lower down on the railing.

How to Decorate Stairs for Christmas | Garland & Lights Tips

Q: How do I keep the garland from slipping off the railing?

Use zip ties or floral wire and secure every foot or so. If your railing is wood, you can also use command hooks—they hold well and leave no marks.

Q: What is the safest way to add lights to my staircase?

Stick to LED lights—they stay cool and use less energy. Secure all cords away from walking areas to avoid tripping hazards.

Q: How do I make my staircase decor match the rest of the house?

Use the same color palette and materials—for example, if your tree has plaid ribbon, add a matching plaid bow to your garland. Repetition ties the look together beautifully.

Every year, my staircase becomes my personal Christmas runway. It is the first thing guests see when they walk in, and honestly, it sets the tone for the whole house. Bare railings in December? That just feels wrong. Decorating the stairs for Christmas adds instant warmth, makes your home feel more connected, and gives you another excuse to go all-in on festive creativity.

If you have ever stared at your staircase wondering where to start—lights first? Garland? Ribbon?—this guide will help you turn that empty banister into a full-on holiday moment.

Step 1: Choose a Theme That Fits Your Home

Your staircase decor should flow with the rest of your holiday setup. Think of it as an extension of your living room, not a separate universe.

A few themes I love:

Rustic Woodland: Pine garlands, plaid ribbons, pinecones, and a touch of burlap.
Classic Red and Gold: Lush greenery, shiny ornaments, and shimmering bows.
Winter Wonderland: White garlands, silver accents, and icy LED lights.
Minimal Scandinavian: Simple greenery with linen or jute ribbon.

I usually pick a color palette that matches my tree—it ties the whole house together.

Step 2: Start With the Greenery

Garland is the foundation. Whether it is fresh pine or artificial, it sets the tone. I prefer pre-lit garlands because fewer cords = less chaos.

Measure your railing from top to bottom so you know how much to buy.
Secure the garland using zip ties or green floral wire every foot or so.
Let it drape naturally, following the curve of your staircase.

Do not pull it too tight—those soft curves make it look lush and effortless.

Step 3: Add Ribbon and Layers

Here is where your personality shines. I like to weave ribbon through the garland, tucking it in and out for a natural flow. Go for wired ribbon (trust me on this—it stays where you want it).

You can:

Wrap the ribbon around the garland like a candy cane stripe.
Layer multiple ribbons (like plaid with metallic gold) for depth.
Add big statement bows at the base of the railing or every few feet for that “magazine look.”

It is a little thing that makes a huge difference.

Step 4: Light It Up

This part is where the magic happens. I like using warm white fairy lights because they give that golden glow that feels cozy instead of flashy.

Wrap them around the garland or weave them gently through.
If your garland is already pre-lit, add battery-operated candles on the steps or wall sconces for a layered glow.
Hide cords behind the banister and use adhesive clips to keep things neat.

And please—always test your lights before hanging them. Learned that one the hard way. 😅

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches That Make It Yours

Once the main setup is done, it is time for the fun part—the personal touches.

Some of my favorite additions:

Small ornaments nestled in the garland.
Mini stockings with each family member’s name.
Hanging snowflakes or stars from the underside of the railing.
A few wrapped boxes at the bottom of the stairs for a grand finish.

A good rule of thumb: stop right before it feels “too much.” A little breathing room keeps the decor feeling intentional and elegant.

Step 6: Step Back and Enjoy the Glow

Once everything is in place, turn off the main lights and soak it in. The way the garland glows against the steps? Pure Christmas magic.

There is something about a decorated staircase—it feels welcoming, nostalgic, and cozy all at once. Whether you are coming down for cocoa or tiptoeing up with presents, it turns every step into part of the celebration.

FAQs

How do I keep the garland from slipping off the railing?

Use zip ties or floral wire and secure every foot or so. If your railing is wood, you can also use command hooks—they hold well and leave no marks.

Can I decorate my stairs without using real greenery?

Of course. Artificial garlands are durable, reusable, and can look incredibly realistic. Plus, they do not shed or dry out.

What is the safest way to add lights to my staircase?

Stick to LED lights—they stay cool and use less energy. Secure all cords away from walking areas to avoid tripping hazards.

How do I make my staircase decor match the rest of the house?

Use the same color palette and materials—for example, if your tree has plaid ribbon, add a matching plaid bow to your garland. Repetition ties the look together beautifully.

How can I decorate if I have small kids or pets?

Keep fragile ornaments and candles out of reach. Opt for soft decorations like fabric bows and plastic ornaments lower down on the railing.

Mindy Medford

I am Mindy Medford, a home décor, paint, and design specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience transforming ordinary spaces into cozy, personality-packed havens. Since 2013, I have been helping homeowners discover the art of beautiful yet practical design. I share my love for color, texture, and layout—making stylish interiors & exteriors feel achievable for everyone. Whether it’s picking the perfect paint shade or reimagining a small space, I’m here to guide and inspire.