7 Thanksgiving Table Decor Trends You'll Love This Fall Season

As we approach the holiday season, it’s time to start thinking about how you’ll decorate your Thanksgiving table this year. Setting a beautiful table adds to the warm, festive atmosphere that makes this holiday so special.

A beautifully set Thanksgiving table with modern decor trends including metallic accents, natural elements, and elegant place settings

Thanksgiving table decor can transform your dining experience and impress your guests without breaking the bank. From natural elements to modern twists on traditional themes, there are plenty of ways to create a stunning tablescape that reflects your personal style. Let’s explore some trendy decor ideas that will make your Thanksgiving gathering even more memorable.

1. Velvet Pumpkins

A Thanksgiving table adorned with rich velvet pumpkins in various sizes and colors, complemented by elegant tableware and autumnal accents

Velvet pumpkins are taking Thanksgiving tables by storm this year. These soft, plush decorations add a touch of luxury to your holiday spread without breaking the bank.

You can find velvet pumpkins in rich autumn colors like deep orange, burgundy, and forest green. Many come with real pumpkin stems for an authentic look that blends elegance with rustic charm.

Try clustering different sizes together as a centerpiece. You might also scatter a few smaller ones between place settings for a cohesive look across your table.

Making your own velvet pumpkins is surprisingly easy. All you need is some velvet fabric, stuffing, thread, and if possible, real dried stems from your garden pumpkins.

These velvet beauties aren’t just pretty—they’re practical too. Unlike real pumpkins, they won’t rot, so you can use them year after year.

For an extra special touch, look for versions with embellishments like tiny pearls, embroidery, or metallic accents that catch the light from your Thanksgiving candles.

2. Woven Table Runners

A beautifully set Thanksgiving table with woven table runners, adorned with modern and elegant decor trends

Woven table runners are making a huge comeback this Thanksgiving. These textured pieces add warmth and dimension to your holiday table without overwhelming your place settings.

Natural materials like jute, cotton, and wool are particularly popular this season. You’ll find them in earthy tones that complement traditional Thanksgiving colors perfectly.

Look for runners with interesting textures and patterns. Subtle geometric designs or simple stripes can add visual interest without competing with your other decorations.

For a modern twist, try layering different runners across your table. A shorter, bolder pattern placed over a longer, neutral one creates depth and makes your table setting more dynamic.

These versatile pieces also work well with both formal and casual settings. You can dress them up with fine china or pair them with everyday dishes for a more relaxed feel.

Many artisanal and handmade options are available if you want something truly unique. Supporting small businesses while decorating your home adds special meaning to your holiday gathering.

3. Eucalyptus Candle Rings

A table set for Thanksgiving with eucalyptus candle rings as the centerpiece, surrounded by other trendy decor items

Eucalyptus candle rings are taking Thanksgiving tables by storm this year. These fragrant greenery circles add a touch of natural elegance when placed around your candles.

You can find pre-made eucalyptus rings at craft stores and home decor shops. Or try making your own by wiring fresh or dried eucalyptus stems into a circle shape.

The soft silver-green color of eucalyptus pairs beautifully with fall colors. It works especially well with white, cream, or amber candles for a sophisticated look.

These versatile rings can be simple with just eucalyptus, or you can dress them up. Try adding small pine cones, berries, or dried orange slices for more fall flair.

What makes eucalyptus perfect for Thanksgiving is its subtle, refreshing scent. It won’t compete with your delicious food aromas but adds a pleasant background fragrance.

For a cohesive table, match your eucalyptus rings with other eucalyptus accents. Tuck sprigs into napkin rings or scatter small bunches along your table runner.

4. Hand-Painted Ceramic Plates

A festive table set with hand-painted ceramic plates, surrounded by autumnal decor and warm candlelight

Hand-painted ceramic plates are making a big splash at Thanksgiving tables this year. These unique dishes add a personal touch that mass-produced tableware simply can’t match.

You can find these artistic plates in stores specializing in handmade goods or online marketplaces like Etsy. Many feature fall-inspired designs with pumpkins, leaves, and harvest themes.

What makes these plates special is that no two are exactly alike. The slight variations in each piece create an authentic, rustic feel that fits perfectly with the Thanksgiving vibe.

You might consider mixing and matching different patterns for an eclectic look. Or create a cohesive table by choosing plates with complementary color schemes.

These plates aren’t just for serving food. You can also use them as decorative chargers under clear glass plates or as accent pieces displayed on your buffet.

For a truly special touch, look for local pottery studios where you can paint your own plates. This could become a fun pre-Thanksgiving activity for your family.

5. Copper Flatware

A Thanksgiving table set with copper flatware, surrounded by autumn-themed decor and warm lighting

Copper flatware is making a big splash this Thanksgiving season. The warm, rosy metal adds an instant touch of elegance to your holiday table without being too formal or stuffy.

You can find copper flatware in many styles, from traditional to modern. Some sets feature all-copper pieces, while others combine copper with stainless steel for a two-tone look that really pops against white dishes.

What’s great about copper is how it creates a cozy feel. It naturally reflects candlelight in the most flattering way, making everyone and everything at your table look amazing.

Don’t worry about polishing! Many modern copper flatware sets have special finishes that resist tarnishing, so they stay beautiful with minimal care.

For a mixed-metal approach, try pairing copper flatware with gold candlesticks or silver napkin rings. This casual mixing of metals is totally on-trend right now and gives your table a collected-over-time feel.

If a full set feels like too much, start small. Just switching out your serving spoons for copper ones will add that special touch to your Thanksgiving feast.

6. Plaid Wool Napkins

A festive Thanksgiving table set with plaid wool napkins, surrounded by modern decor trends

Plaid wool napkins are making a huge comeback this Thanksgiving season. These cozy fabric pieces add warmth and texture to your holiday table setting.

The rich tartans and classic plaids bring a touch of nostalgia while staying perfectly on-trend. You can find them in traditional red and green combinations or more modern color schemes that match your existing decor.

What makes wool napkins special is their weight and texture. They feel substantial in your hands and add a luxurious element to each place setting.

Try mixing different plaid patterns for an eclectic look, or stick with a single design for a more cohesive feel. You can even coordinate them with plaid table runners or placemats.

Wool napkins are practical too. They’re durable enough to last for many holiday seasons and actually become softer with each washing.

For a finishing touch, roll them and secure with a simple twine bow or elegant napkin ring. Or fold them into simple rectangles beside each plate for a more casual presentation.

7. Acorn Salt and Pepper Shakers

Acorn salt and pepper shakers are bringing woodland charm to Thanksgiving tables this year. These cute little table accessories shaped like acorns add a playful touch to your holiday meal.

You can find them in various materials like ceramic, wood, or glass. Many come in beautiful autumn colors that perfectly match fall-themed place settings.

Some acorn shakers feature hand-painted details while others showcase natural wood grain. The caps usually twist off for easy refilling, making them practical as well as decorative.

They make excellent conversation starters when guests sit down to eat. You might also consider them as small take-home gifts for your dinner guests.

Place these adorable shakers in the center of your table or beside each place setting. They pair wonderfully with other natural elements like pinecones or small gourds.

For a coordinated look, match your acorn shakers to your napkin rings or candleholders. This creates a cohesive theme that ties your whole table together.

Color Palettes for Thanksgiving Decor

Choosing the right color scheme can transform your Thanksgiving table into a feast for the eyes. The perfect palette sets the mood and complements your delicious spread.

Warm and Cozy Tones

Warm neutrals create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Think creamy beiges, soft tans, and gentle browns as your base colors. These tones pair beautifully with natural elements like wood chargers and woven placemats.

Add pops of burnt orange and mustard yellow to bring warmth to your table. These colors reflect the changing leaves outside and create a snug feeling indoors.

Try incorporating copper accents through candleholders or serving pieces. The metallic shine adds a touch of elegance without being too formal.

White pumpkins and ivory candles can brighten your warm palette. They provide contrast while maintaining the cozy vibe you’re aiming for.

Rich Autumnal Hues

Bold, saturated colors capture fall’s dramatic beauty on your Thanksgiving table. Deep burgundy, forest green, and amber create a rich, seasonal backdrop for your feast.

Mix in touches of navy blue or plum for an unexpected twist on traditional fall colors. These deeper tones add sophistication and depth to your décor.

Golden accents work magic with this palette. Try:

Gold-rimmed glasses
Brass candlesticks
Metallic napkin rings

Layer different shades within the same color family for visual interest. A burgundy tablecloth with cranberry napkins and pink-red flowers creates dimension without clashing.

Don’t forget texture! Velvet table runners in jewel tones add luxury, while matte finishes on dinnerware keep things balanced.

Incorporating Natural Elements

Bringing outdoor elements to your Thanksgiving table creates a warm, authentic feeling that connects your meal to the harvest season. Natural materials add texture and seasonal charm without requiring a big budget.

Using Seasonal Foliage

Fall leaves make beautiful and free table decorations. Collect colorful maple, oak, or gum tree leaves and scatter them down the center of your table as a natural runner.

For a longer-lasting arrangement, press leaves between heavy books for a few days before using them. You can also dip them in beeswax to preserve their color and give them a subtle shine.

Pine cones, acorns, and small gourds create perfect accents among the leaves. Try placing these items in clear glass jars or bowls as simple centerpieces.

Don’t forget about dried wheat, corn husks, and dried berries! These elements bring in different textures and heights to your table landscape.

Wooden Accents and Textures

Wooden serving boards create a rustic foundation for your food displays. Use them to serve appetizers, cheese, or even as bases for candles and decorations.

Try wood slice chargers under plates for a cozy, cabin-inspired look. You can find these at craft stores or make them yourself if you’re handy with tools.

Wooden napkin rings made from small branches add a personal touch. Simply cut small sections of branches, hollow them out, and sand the edges smooth.

Mix in other natural textures like burlap table runners, twine-wrapped candles, or woven placemats to complete the organic feel. These materials contrast beautifully with your china and glassware.