30 Christmas Tray Decor Ideas

Ready to elevate your holiday hosting game without spending a fortune? A simple decorative tray is your best secret weapon!

It corrals clutter, adds instant festivity, and is completely customizable.

Grab a cup of cocoa and let’s dive into 30 Christmas tray decor ideas that are both easy and jaw-dropping.

1. Rustic Wood Tray Charm

This look is pure farmhouse holiday magic. It instantly brings the outdoors in and feels incredibly cozy—perfect for setting on an ottoman or a window ledge.

How To (Do It Yourself): Start with a rectangular wooden tray. Lay down a plaid flannel ribbon or fabric as a runner. Place a few mini faux evergreen sprigs (or clip some real ones!) and scatter pinecones around them.

2. Tiered Tray Magic

The tiered tray is the MVP of holiday decorating because it maximizes vertical space and creates amazing visual interest. It’s especially great for kitchen counters or buffets!

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a two or three-tier stand. On the bottom, stack your favorite festive mugs. In the middle, arrange a handful of colorful ornaments and perhaps a sprinkle of faux snow. The top tier is perfect for a tiny Santa figurine or a simple bow.

3. Candlelight Glow Setup

Nothing says “holiday ambiance” quite like a beautiful candlelight display. This arrangement is simple, elegant, and provides the perfect soft, warm light for those chilly winter nights.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a metallic or mirrored tray to help reflect the light. Group three different-sized white pillar candles in the center. Fill the empty space with gold or silver ornaments and tuck small clusters of fresh cedar sprigs around the candles.

4. Hot Cocoa Station Tray

This isn’t just decor; it’s an experience! Create a self-serve station that encourages cozy conversation. Your family and friends will absolutely love this functional and festive setup.

How To (Do It Yourself): Line a tray with a red-and-white striped towel or napkin. Include glass jars filled with cocoa mix, mini marshmallows, and crushed candy canes. Add two or three Christmas mugs and a small sign that says “Hot Cocoa Bar.”

5. Mini Village Scene

Have you ever wanted your own tiny slice of a snowy wonderland? Now you can! This scene creates a magical, whimsical focal point, especially under the glow of Christmas tree lights.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a white or light blue tray. Cover the surface with a sheet of white cotton batting or loose faux snow. Arrange tiny ceramic houses and bottle brush trees. Weave battery-operated fairy lights through the entire scene.

6. Scandinavian Simplicity

If “less is more” is your motto, this design is for you. It relies on clean lines, natural textures, and a calming neutral palette—a beautiful contrast to the typical bright holiday colors.

How To (Do It Yourself): Choose a light wood or simple white tray. Place a couple of small, unpainted wooden bead garlands in a coil. Arrange a trio of simple white ceramic candle holders and add one large sprig of eucalyptus for a fresh touch.

7. Santa’s Cookie Corner

A fun, nostalgic tray that brings out the kid in everyone! This is perfect for placing near the chimney or setting up the night before Christmas Eve as a playful tradition.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a classic round tray. Set out a festive holiday plate (empty for now!) and a small milk bottle. Add a “Cookies For Santa” sign and a couple of wrapped candy canes just in case Santa needs an extra treat.

8. Neutral Tones Elegance

This sophisticated look uses texture and height rather than bold color to create a stunning display. It feels warm, expensive, and works perfectly in a modern home.

How To (Do It Yourself): Start with a dark wood or metal tray. Use different heights of beige or cream candles. Weave a chunky wooden bead garland around the base of the candles. Tuck in clusters of frosted faux greenery to add a wintery element.

9. Gold & Green Glam

Need a little sparkle? This combination is eternally classic and brings a festive, high-end feel to any surface. It looks especially stunning on a dark wooden table.

How To (Do It Yourself): On a glass or mirrored tray, arrange a small line of tall, slender glass candleholders. Scatter a mix of matte and shiny gold ornaments across the tray. Place eucalyptus leaves between the ornaments for contrast and freshness.

10. Farmhouse Mug Display

A sweet and simple way to show off those beautiful, patterned holiday mugs you pull out once a year. It’s practical and adds a pop of cheer to your counter.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a galvanized metal tray. Place three to four different holiday mugs inside (think plaid, sweater knit, or personalized styles). Fold a stack of plaid or neutral napkins neatly next to the mugs. Finish with a couple of small pine branches.

11. Vintage Christmas Vibes

Take a trip down memory lane! Hunting for these charming, slightly faded treasures at antique shops is half the fun. This tray tells a beautiful, nostalgic story.

How To (Do It Yourself): Choose an aged, maybe slightly chipped, enamel or metal tray. Scatter old-fashioned mercury glass ornaments and a couple of cute bottle brush trees. Find a tiny vintage toy car carrying a faux tree on top for the perfect centerpiece.

12. Candy Cane Tray

Bring the sweet, minty scent of peppermint into your decor! The red and white stripes are instantly recognizable as a Christmas classic and add a playful energy.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a bright white tray for maximum contrast. Arrange a few peppermint-scented candles. Fill any remaining space with piles of unwrapped red-and-white candy canes or other striped sweets like Starlight Mints.

13. Cozy Coffee Table Tray

Your living room should be a comfort zone, and this tray ensures your essentials are stylishly contained. It’s a vibe check for your whole seating area!

How To (Do It Yourself): Lay a small piece of thick pine garland onto a tray. Place two or three chunky pillar candles on top of the garland. Add a stack of knit coasters and maybe a favorite holiday book or magazine.

14. Grinch-Themed Fun

If your heart grows three sizes every holiday season, you need this! It’s a whimsical, funny, and instantly recognizable theme that gets everyone talking.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a bright red or green tray. Scatter vibrant green ornaments and red ribbon bows. Find a Grinch cutout or small sign (search for “Mer12 Grinchmas” signs online) and place it prominently. Add a few small, crooked, whimsical faux trees.

15. Modern Black & White Tray

Ditch the traditional colors for a sleek, contemporary look. This is high-style holiday, perfect for a minimalist home or for adding an edgy contrast to classic decor.

How To (Do It Yourself): Start with a simple black tray. Group a few matte black candleholders. Add several white ceramic ornaments or small, geometric white vases. Use only simple, green pine sprigs (no colored berries or glitter) for a touch of life.

16. Red Truck Nostalgia

Is there anything more iconic than that little red pickup hauling home the tree? This design taps into a feeling of classic Americana and holiday tradition.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a neutral wood tray. Cover the base lightly with faux snow or white glitter. Place a miniature red pickup truck carrying a tiny faux tree in the bed. Add a few fairy lights or a small lantern nearby nearby.

17. Gingerbread Delight

Sweeten up your space! The warm, inviting look of gingerbread is cozy and reminds everyone of baking, laughter, and holiday treats.

How To (Do It Yourself): Start with a light brown or white tray. Arrange several gingerbread figurines (either real cookies or ceramic/wood accents). Include a few holiday cookie cutters and maybe a miniature rolling pin. Faux icing details on signs or figurines are a bonus!

18. Mini Nativity Display

If you prefer to keep the focus on the true meaning of Christmas, this is a beautiful and reverent way to incorporate a classic scene into your everyday decor.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a simple, unadorned tray (maybe natural slate or dark wood). Place a small, simple nativity set on the tray. Surround the figures with a few unscented, creamy white votive candles and maybe a single star-shaped ornament.

19. Buffalo Plaid Pop

Bold, graphic, and instantly cozy, buffalo plaid is a powerhouse pattern for the holidays. It works brilliantly in a rustic or modern setting—it’s incredibly versatile!

How To (Do It Yourself): Cover the base of your tray with a piece of buffalo plaid fabric or paper. Add a few mini wooden signs with holiday phrases. Incorporate red and black ornaments and tie a bold buffalo plaid bow onto a candle holder.

20. Frosted Winter Whites

Inspired by a fresh snowfall, this tray feels crisp, clean, and elegant. It’s a wonderful way to brighten a room during the darkest days of winter.

How To (Do It Yourself): Start with a white or light gray tray. Use only all-white or pale silver accents. Sprinkle a thin layer of faux snow. Use white-flocked faux pine branches and mix in silver ornaments or small frosted glass decor pieces.

21. Kitchen Island Tray

Turn your kitchen workspace into a holiday haven! This tray keeps your essential baking ingredients handy while adding undeniable festive flair.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a long, narrow tray. Place two glass cookie jars filled with holiday ingredients (like flour and sugar or colorful sprinkles). Add a few miniature Christmas trees and some tied-up cinnamon sticks for aroma.

22. Mini Tree Forest Tray

Simple, effective, and texturally interesting! By grouping trees of different heights and materials, you create an entire landscape on a small scale.

How To (Do It Yourself): Select at least five miniature trees of varying heights and textures (e.g., bottle brush, felt, fuzzy evergreen). Arrange them closely on a square or rectangular tray, creating a dense, charming forest effect.

23. Holiday Breakfast Tray

Perfect for a slow, weekend morning or Christmas Day! This setup is all about presentation and creating a magical moment for someone special.

How To (Do It Yourself): This is a functional tray! Add a small stack of miniature pancakes or waffles to a plate. Include a mug of hot coffee or tea and a glass of juice. Use a festive napkin and a tiny wrapped gift or ornament as an accent.

24. Woodland Theme Tray

Embrace the quiet magic of a winter forest. This natural, earth-toned decor is grounding, cozy, and perfect for anyone who loves nature.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a tray made of natural wood slices or birch bark. Incorporate small wooden animal figures (like deer or squirrels). Scatter acorns and pinecones. Use soft green moss or a bit of dried lichen for texture.

25. Gold Candle Trio Tray

Pure luxury! This is the quickest way to create a formal, elevated look for your mantel or dining table centerpiece with minimal effort.

How To (Do It Yourself): Place a small mirror or metallic gold charger plate inside a simple tray. Arrange three gold pillar candles or candlesticks in a tight group. Surround the candles with red or jewel-toned ornaments and small, vibrant pine sprigs.

26. Holiday Bar Tray

Time to mix a festive beverage! This is the most practical party decor—it gathers all your drink essentials in one place, making you the ultimate host.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a sturdy, easy-to-clean tray. Place a decanter or liquor bottle and two or three pretty glasses. Fill a small bowl with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs to use as garnishes. Add a small holiday sign like “Cheers.”

27. Snow Globe Theme

Capture that magical, frozen moment inside a snow globe. This theme is sparkling, fun, and feels like a miniature carnival of winter joy.

How To (Do It Yourself): Choose a round or oval tray. Arrange several different-sized snow globes in a group. Weave a strand of tiny, battery-operated fairy lights around them. Sprinkle the remaining tray surface lightly with faux snow.

28. Winter Greenhouse Tray

Bring nature indoors with a touch of sophisticated structure. The glass cloche creates a little world, adding a soft, magical glow to your table display.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a rustic round tray. Place a few mini potted evergreens (faux works best) and pinecones. Cover the whole display with a large glass cloche or dome. Add a string of tiny LED wire lights under the cloche for a magical effect.

29. Coastal Christmas Tray

For those who dream of a white sand Christmas! This is a unique and calming way to celebrate the holidays, especially if you live near the ocean.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a light blue or sand-colored tray. Scatter a mix of small seashells and white beach glass. Arrange several white or aqua candles. Add a few sprigs of faux sea grass or white-tipped pine to tie in the holiday theme.

30. Front Entry Accent Tray

Welcome guests the moment they step inside! This tray sets a warm, inviting, and wonderfully fragrant tone for your entire home.

How To (Do It Yourself): Use a durable, easy-to-wipe tray. Place two or three miniature flocked trees. Arrange a few battery-operated candles. Scatter pinecones that have been lightly sprayed with a holiday scent (cinnamon, pine, or spiced apple).

What Will You Create?

Phew! Thirty ways to make a tray look like a million bucks. No matter your style—rustic, glam, or modern—a well-dressed tray is the simplest way to add instant cheer. Now, go grab that tray and get styling!