Home decor is a reflection of personal style, a way to express creativity, and an opportunity to transform a space into a haven of comfort and joy. This is a relatively simple undertaking during the most festive time of year, but it can be slightly trickier without the classic decoration bases that are typically reserved for the end-of-year holidays.
While Christmas trees are traditionally associated with winter festivities, this does not mean they need to be stored away for 10 months out of the year! Decorating a Christmas tree in summer can add a whimsical and refreshing twist to your home that brings an unexpected dose of delight.
In this blog, discover tips on how to decorate this snowy staple for the sunny season, including four popular Christmas tree styles for summer.
Why Decorate Christmas Trees in Summer?
Decorating a Christmas tree in summer might seem unconventional, but it has grown in popularity for several reasons:
-
Christmas in July
Many people celebrate Christmas in July as a way to bring festive cheer to the warmer months. Legend has it that this creative tradition started out of a girls’ summer camp to bring the unique enthusiasm of the Christmas season to the camp experience. Hosting a Christmas in July party is a great excuse to put up a tree with a summery twist.
-
Budget-Friendly Decor
Shopping for Christmas decorations outside the holiday season often means scoring discounts on trees, lights, and ornaments. Plus, summer-themed decor items such as faux flowers, seashells, and bright ribbons can be found at affordable prices in craft stores.
-
Saves Storage Space
If you already have a Christmas tree taking up storage space, why not repurpose it as a year-round decorative element? Instead of boxing it up, you can give it new life with a summer design.
-
Unique Centerpiece
A summer-themed Christmas tree is a show-stopping conversation starter. Whether placed in a living room, patio, or entryway, it creates an eye-catching centerpiece that makes your home stand out.
-
Parties & Events
A decorated tree can serve as a stunning backdrop for summer gatherings, birthdays, and themed events. It’s an easy way to add festive cheer and creativity to any occasion, conjuring up the joyous spirit felt during the holidays.
How to Decorate a Christmas Tree in Summer
-
All-Year-Round Pre-Lit Christmas Tree: Investing in a high-quality pre-lit artificial Christmas tree can make seasonal decorating much easier. These trees come in a variety of styles and sizes, ensuring that they fit any home aesthetic.
-
Summer Color Palette: Swap the traditional red and green for summer-inspired hues. Make sure that the color palette you choose works well with your permanent furniture and other summer decor. Popular summer color combinations include:
-
Ocean blues and teals
-
Sunny yellows and oranges
-
Soft floral pastels
-
Tropical pinks and corals
-
Natural earthy tones
-
Summer-Themed Ornaments: There are plenty of ornaments that actually make more sense to display in the summer than in the winter! Trade in the classic snowflakes and reindeer for:
-
Mermaids and jellyfishes
-
Mini beach balls
-
Pineapples and flamingos
-
Seashells and starfish
-
Citrus fruit slices
-
Butterfly and flower ornaments
-
Picks, Sprays & Natural Elements: Adding sprays, floral picks, and natural elements can create a fuller and more dynamic tree. For a summer-forward tree, consider using:
-
Pampas grass
-
Palm leaves
-
Eucalyptus branches
-
Driftwood accents
-
Artificial Flowers & Greenery: Incorporating artificial flowers is a great way to bring summer vibes to your tree. Classic summer blooms to include are:
-
Sunflowers
-
Hydrangeas
-
Orchids
-
Hibiscus flowers
-
DIY Ornaments: Get crafty and create your own ornaments! This is also a perfect activity to do with the kids once they get out of school. Some fun ideas include:
-
Painted seashells
-
Handmade macramé ornaments
-
Personalized wooden tags
-
Upcycled summer accessories
Summer Christmas Tree Theme Ideas
Boho
A boho-inspired tree embraces earthy tones, macramé, feathers, and handmade elements. Use wooden beads and rattan stars to create a warm and inviting ambiance. The key to a bohemian-style Christmas tree is an eclectic mix of textures and patterns. Incorporate woven baskets at the base, fringe garlands, and soft fairy lights to enhance the cozy, free-spirited vibe.
Tropical
A tropical-themed tree bursts with color and energy. Think palm leaves, tiki-style decorations, and bold flowers. Add in flamingos, pineapples, and bright-colored lights to feel like you’re soaking up the sun on “Christmas Island.” Large, oversized artificial monstera and banana leaves can be woven throughout the branches, while pops of bright fuchsia, turquoise, and citrusy orange give the tree a lush, summery feel. You can also string flower leis and raffia garlands to create a Hawaiian-inspired aesthetic.
Beach
If you love the ocean, a beach-inspired Christmas tree is the perfect way to bring the beauty of the seaside into your home. Use seashells, sand dollars, driftwood garlands, and soft blue and white lights to mimic the calming aesthetic of the ocean waves. Wrap the tree in burlap or netting to resemble a fishing net and include ocean-themed accents such as glass buoys, tiny anchors, and sailboat ornaments. For a finishing touch, scatter faux pearls and small bottles filled with beach sand throughout the branches.
Nautical
A nautical-themed Christmas tree is ideal for those who love the classic charm of coastal life. Incorporate navy blue, crisp white, and touches of red into the decor. Anchor ornaments, ship wheels, and lighthouse figurines can bring the theme to life. Striped ribbons or sailor’s knots can be woven around the tree for a sophisticated maritime look. To enhance the nautical ambiance, use driftwood stars, miniature lifebuoys, and model sailboats as focal points on the tree. The addition of twinkle lights in cool white will give it the serene glow of a lighthouse on the shore.
Care and Maintenance Tips
-
Dust Regularly: A tree that stays up year-round will collect dust, so be sure to clean it with a dense fiber duster or a clean, dry cloth.
-
Use LED Lights: They last longer and emit less heat, making them safer for summer use.
-
Store Decorations Properly: If you rotate decorations seasonally, store them in labeled containers for easy access.
-
Protect from Sunlight: If your tree is near a window, consider UV-protected decor to prevent fading.
Conclusion
Decorating a Christmas tree in summer is a creative way to refresh your home decor and get more use out of seasonal decorations. Whether celebrating Christmas in July, repurposing your holiday tree, or simply trying something new, a summer-themed tree brings unique personality into any space. With the right decorations, themes, and care, your tree can become a year-round statement piece emitting endless holiday joy that adapts with the seasons!
