Holiday-Ready Decks: How to Decorate for Outdoor Entertaining

The holidays aren’t just for cozy indoor gatherings—your outdoor space can be just as festive, functional, and welcoming. At Decked Out Tennessee, we help homeowners in Franklin, Brentwood, Nolensville, and beyond turn their decks into stunning holiday-ready venues for entertaining family and friends.

Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner under the stars, a Christmas cocktail hour around the fire pit, or a New Year’s Eve countdown on your custom-built deck, we’ve got you covered with tips to make your deck shine—literally.


Step 1: Light It Up

Lighting is the easiest way to transform your deck into a magical holiday space.

  • String Lights – Drape them across railings, pergolas, or overhead beams for a warm, inviting glow.

  • 🕯️ Lanterns & LED Candles – Add cozy ambiance without worrying about open flames.

  • 💡 Deck Step & Railing Lights – Improve safety while giving your deck a soft, elegant look at night.

Bonus: Choose warm white or soft amber bulbs for that classic holiday vibe.


Step 2: Add Seasonal Greenery & Decor

Decks love decorations just as much as the front door.

  • 🎄 Garlands and Wreaths – Drape evergreen garlands along the railing or hang a festive wreath on a pergola post.

  • ❄️ Outdoor Holiday Accents – Add pops of red and green with throw pillows, blankets, or rustic décor like pinecones, birch logs, and mini trees.

  • 🪵 Planters with Winter Foliage – Fill pots with hardy plants like holly, boxwood, or ornamental cabbage for a fresh, seasonal look.


Step 3: Keep It Comfortable

Chilly weather doesn’t mean your deck is off-limits. Make it cozy!

  • 🔥 Portable Fire Pit or Heater – Provide warmth and a central gathering point.

  • 🧣 Blanket Basket – Set out fleece or wool throws for guests to grab when the temperature dips.

  • 🪑 Cushioned Seating – Swap out summer cushions for thicker, weather-resistant options with seasonal colors.


Step 4: Entertain with Ease

Turn your deck into the ultimate holiday host zone.

  • 🍷 Bar Cart or Hot Cocoa Station – Offer self-serve beverages so guests can help themselves.

  • 🍽️ Buffet-Style Setup – Arrange serving tables along the edge of your deck to maximize space.

  • 🎶 Outdoor Speakers – Play a holiday playlist in the background for the perfect festive mood.


Holiday Deck Decorating Ideas by Occasion

🎃 Thanksgiving: Warm tones, fall garlands, and centerpieces made from pumpkins and gourds.
🎄 Christmas: Evergreen décor, plaid accents, twinkling lights, and classic reds and golds.
🥂 New Year’s Eve: Metallic balloons, champagne flutes, fire pits, and string lights for a sparkling celebration.


Decked Out for the Holidays—Literally

Whether your deck is large or small, covered or open-air, we believe every outdoor space has the potential to be holiday-ready. And if your current deck needs an upgrade to host the kind of parties you envision—new railings, a pergola, or even an outdoor kitchen—our team can help.

📍 Serving Franklin, Brentwood, Nolensville, and the surrounding Middle Tennessee area.

Want to get your deck holiday-ready or build one from scratch in time for the next season?
Contact Decked Out Tennessee today for a free consultation.

Our office

2019 General Martin Ln, Franklin, TN 37064

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