Christmas table decorating
A red runner, evergreen garland and softly glowing lights set the Christmas mood. Tie a white bow around each napkin and leave a little name card at every place.
Activity steps
- Layer a little Christmas color,For each table of six, lay one red runner along the center and arrange one 6-foot evergreen garland over it. Measure your table first and tuck or curve the greenery within the central area. Keep place settings, food and the edges of the table clear.
- Add a soft, low centerpiece,Place one clean tray in the center and group three flameless votives on it. Arrange the greenery around the tray, keeping the display low enough for everyone to see across the table. An adult checks that battery compartments are secure; the suggested lights already include batteries.
- Make every place feel thoughtful,Set one plate and one cloth napkin per guest. An adult cuts about 75 cm of white satin ribbon for each loose napkin bow. Fold one blank card per guest, then use the shared markers to add a name and a Christmas wish. Place the card beside the plate and put scissors and markers away before serving food.
- Gather, eat and share a little story,Bring out your chosen food and drinks, using your everyday cutlery, cups and serving dishes. Keep the centerpiece on its own tray, with food on separate food-safe dishes and artificial greenery off eating surfaces. Invite everyone to share a favorite Christmas memory or read their little wish; listening or passing is welcome.
Set up the decorations and place cards the night before. Reuse a runner, napkins, plates and a tray from home; the greenery, bows and soft lights create the Christmas feeling. Prepare your chosen refreshments separately.
Shopping list for 6 people
- Red Christmas table runner — 1 runner
- Evergreen garland for the table — 1 garland
- Flameless lights for the centerpiece — 3 lights
- Cloth napkins for each guest — 6 napkins
- White ribbon for napkin bows — 5 m
- Handwritten Christmas place cards — 6 cards
- Markers for place cards — 1 set
- Adult scissors for ribbon bows — 1 pair
- Plates for the festive table and bites — 6 plates
- Trays for the centerpiece and crackers — 1 tray
Use supplies you already have. Enable JavaScript to adjust guests and mark what you need.