The holiday season – from Thanksgiving to New Year’s – is a festive time of year. That fun and loose atmosphere is fostered by gatherings with family and friends. In many households, holiday gatherings have become something akin to family reunions due to relatives living apart from parents and adult siblings. In fact, a 2020 study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that only one in three adults had all parents or adult children living within 30 miles.

The infrequency of gatherings where all family members are in attendance can make holiday season get-togethers especially significant. And that can inspire holiday hosts to want to do everything possible to ensure all of their guests’ needs are covered and everyone enjoys themselves during this special and unique time of year. When hosting a family get-together this holiday season, hosts can keep these items in mind to set a festive vibe in their homes.

Decorative tableware: Holiday-themed plates, cloth napkins, place settings, centerpieces, tablecloth, and additional tableware can be a nice seasonal touch when sitting down to break bread with family members.

Decorative kitchenware: Baking is a popular holiday season tradition in many households. Decorative cutting boards, mixing bowls and additional baking tools can be great for hosts who plan to incorporate family baking sessions into the festivities.

Fresh-cut decor: The scent of evergreen instantly calls the holiday season to mind. Fresh-cut decorative items like a homemade centerpiece, homemade wreath or a natural Christmas tree can make for a nice touch.

Seasonal linens: The festive atmosphere can even be emphasized in restrooms, where decorative hand towels can add a touch of seasonal flare.

Decorative pillows: Throw pillows are used to establish a color scheme and atmosphere inside a living space, and hosts can keep this going by placing seasonal throw pillows and blankets out throughout the holiday season.

Welcome mats: A holiday-themed welcome mat at the front door and inside the mud room can immediately establish a festive and welcoming vibe.

Homemade crafts: Hosts who also happen to be parents of young children can display some homemade holiday crafts around the house. Such crafts may spark fond memories among older guests with grown children of their own while helping to establish a relaxed and festive atmosphere.