Throw back to the good ol' days with vintage Christmas decorations.
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8 Vintage Christmas Decorations That’ll Take You Back to Grandma’s
Updated on Nov. 27, 2024
Nativity Scenes
Remember being a wide-eyed kid looking at a perfectly arranged nativity scene? The brightly painted figurines of the three wise men, Mary, Joseph and, of course, baby Jesus, brought a story to life in living color. It’s surprisingly easy to find a vintage-inspired nativity scene even now, along with sleek and contemporary nativity scenes like this.
Nutcrackers
According to German lore, nutcracker soldiers were supposed to protect the house from evil, making them the perfect decoration for the holiday season. You can find hand-painted figurines at antique stores or on eBay—or check Etsy for a more modern version, like this nutcracker planter.
Bring more German cheer to the holidays with some traditional Christmas stollen, too.
Christmas China
Most of us have treasured memories of holiday dishes decorated with Christmas motifs, with each plate, cup and bowl handed carefully through generations. You can find vintage-inspired sets at Macy’s.
Vintage Holiday Records
“Have yourself a merry little Christmas…” If the dulcet tones of Bing Crosby aren’t ringing through the house, is it really Christmas? It’s time to break out the vintage records and set up some steaming hazelnut hot chocolate on these quirky upcycled vinyl coasters.
Ceramic Christmas Villages
In the 18th century, Europeans began to expand their nativity scenes to include more than the main characters, and two centuries later, Christmas villages became beloved holiday decor across America. Also known as a putz (again, credited to the Germans), we love this modern-day paper version on them that brightened up with glitter, LED lights and any other decorations.
Bubble-Lites
Did we hear vintage Christmas lights? (No, really, we always swore we could hear a little buzz from these.) These big retro bulbs were the original fairy lights, but were phased out after a few decades of popularity when we discovered the fluid inside could cause poisoning when inhaled. Eek! For a safe update, check out these colorful Christmas lights.
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Tinsel
Pieces of shiny, feathery tinsel were a Christmas tree staple before we realized it contained lead, which made it a hazard for pets who might chew on it. For maximum (safe) sparkle, look for a vintage aluminum Christmas tree!
Vintage trees are gorgeous but two of the holiday season’s superstars, Balsam Hill and Twinkly, collaborated to create a smart Christmas tree that left us wonderstruck. We are sure you will be impressed too!
Paper Chains
Handmade paper chains were a quick and easy way to get some color on the tree, walls, windows and doors—and of course, they made for a great family activity! To recreate these crafts with your children, these pretty paper chains are the best way to deck the halls.
