Between shopping for gifts and preparing the holiday feast, who has the time to spend days decorating their home? Skipping the décor altogether, though, might leave you labeled a Grinch. The perfect compromise? Transform your space with these quick and easy holiday decorating ideas that take just 5 minutes or less to pull off.

Simple touches—like dangling ornaments from your stair railings or filling your home with the cozy aroma of cinnamon sticks—can make a big impact. Check out our favorite festive hacks to get your home holiday-ready in no time!

1 Give Your Frames a Festive Touch

Garland isn’t just for mantels! Using smaller garland strings to frame artwork is a creative way to add a subtle dose of holiday sophistication to any room. This simple yet elegant touch brings a festive charm to your decor.

2 Incorporate Festive Mini Trees

Who says a towering centerpiece is a must for capturing the holiday spirit? Small decorative trees can be just as charming! Arrange a couple of mini trees on a shelf or table, using stacked books to create varying heights for added visual appeal. This adaptable idea works for any holiday—just swap out the tree styles or ornaments to match the occasion!

3 Personalize with Initials

Give your wreath a custom touch by adding an initial that represents your family name or a special monogram. A metallic letter, like this shimmering zinc version, catches the light beautifully, creating a standout decorative piece that works for any holiday or celebration.

4 Design a Festive Shelf Display

No fireplace? No problem. Turn open shelves into a festive centerpiece by adding seasonal accents like small decorative trees, string lights, globes, or flameless candles. Complete the look by hanging stockings or themed garlands along the shelf edges to bring a cozy and celebratory atmosphere to your space.

5 Decorate Your Cabinets with Ribbon

Add a playful touch to your kitchen by adorning cabinet doors with colorful ribbons for the holidays. Secure the ribbons to the inside of the doors to keep them functional while creating a festive and cheerful atmosphere. This simple and creative idea is an easy way to bring seasonal charm to your space.

6 Give Your Pictures a Festive Twist

When in doubt, add a playful twist! Try dressing up the people in your gallery wall's paintings, prints, and photos with tiny holiday-themed hats or accessories. This whimsical detail adds personality and charm, making it a delightful tradition to celebrate any festive occasion.

7 Dress Up Your Doorways

Illuminate your main doorways with string lights, star-shaped accents, or other glowing decorations. This simple yet sophisticated addition brings a warm and welcoming ambiance to your space and can easily transition beyond the festive season.

8 Transform Your Bar Cart

Give your bar cart a festive makeover with seasonal details like metallic decor and a vase of fresh flowers or greenery. Even a simple bouquet from the grocery store will do! Keep glasses and cocktail essentials readily available, so guests can serve themselves and you can relax.

9 Create a Charming Table Setting

Repurpose old holiday cards into unique place cards by cutting them into star shapes and decorating with tissue paper cutouts. Punch a hole, tie with a ribbon, and add names for a personalized touch that’s both creative and festive.

10 Dress Up Your Windows

Holiday decorating goes beyond the tree and mantel—window sills and empty shelves offer perfect spaces for festive touches.

Here are a few ideas to inspire your seasonal setup:

• Place pine boughs in a tall vase and hang a few ornaments for a natural yet elegant look.
• Fill old jars with colorful accents like pistachio nuts, winterberries, or red peppercorns, and top them with a tealight for a warm glow.
• For a coastal vibe, gather starfish and drape them with a simple red string to create a charming, beachy display.

11 Just Log On

For a cozy atmosphere without the hassle of tending to a real fire, simply search "Fireplace for Your Home" on Netflix. It’s an old-fashioned fireplace complete with classic holiday tunes, creating the perfect warm ambiance with just the click of a button.

12 Lend a Hand

Repurpose outgrown mittens or mismatched pairs by pinning them to strands of yarn and draping them over a mantel or shelf. For a similar cozy vibe, try hanging colorful socks or knit hats. This playful and charming idea adds warmth and personality to your seasonal decor.

13 Hang Bundles of Joy

Add a unique twist to your tree by hanging bundles of aromatic cinnamon sticks. Alternatively, place them in a bowl for an effortless DIY version of potpourri, filling your home with a warm, festive scent.

14 Take a Bow

Put those colorful store-bought bows to good use with a simple craft the kids can enjoy! Cut out the center of a plain paper plate and attach the bows around the edges to create a charming, homemade wreath.

15 Step It Up

Even if you're skipping a large centerpiece this year, you can still display your favorite ornaments. Hang them from elegant ribbons throughout your home, including along the staircase, to add a decorative touch that suits any celebration or special occasion.