13 Inspiring Lantern Decor Ideas for Christmas You Can DIY

There’s something undeniably magical about lanterns at Christmas — they bring warmth, sparkle, and storybook charm to any garden or patio.

Whether you’re going for rustic farmhouse, Scandinavian simplicity, or classic red-and-green cheer, these DIY Christmas lantern ideas will fill your outdoor space with cozy, glowing beauty.

Rustic Pinecone Glow

Take a simple metal or wooden lantern and fill it with pinecones, fairy lights, and a few cinnamon sticks. The soft light reflecting off the natural textures adds a warm, forest-inspired charm that feels both rustic and festive.
For extra detail, tie a plaid ribbon or small sprig of fir around the lantern handle — perfect for a country-style garden display.

Frosted Candle Lanterns

Give plain glass lanterns a wintry makeover with frosted spray paint or Epsom salt. Once dry, place LED candles inside to mimic the soft glow of real snow.
Set these along your garden path or porch for that snowy Christmas look — no actual frost required!

Red & Green Classic Lanterns

Keep it traditional by filling lanterns with mini ornaments, holly sprigs, and twinkling red fairy lights.
Place them beside your front door or garden bench to greet guests with nostalgic Christmas warmth.

Scandinavian Minimalist Lanterns

Opt for white or black metal lanterns with simple pillar candles inside, surrounded by fresh greenery like eucalyptus or fir.
This clean, elegant look brings calm to your outdoor space — think serene Nordic Christmas evenings under soft candlelight.

Hanging Fairy Lanterns

Suspend small lanterns from tree branches or pergolas using twine or gold wire, and fill them with tiny string lights.
As night falls, your garden will glow like a magical forest — subtle, romantic, and ideal for cozy outdoor dinners.

Mason Jar Garden Lanterns

Turn old mason jars into charming DIY lanterns by painting them in frosty white or metallic silver.
Pop in a tealight or fairy light strand, and line them along garden steps or fences for a soft, enchanting glow.

Winter Woodland Lanterns

Layer faux moss, pine needles, and miniature deer or tree figurines inside your lantern.
This tiny forest scene looks beautiful both day and night — a touch of whimsy that brings storybook vibes to your patio.

Red Berry & Silver Lanterns

Combine faux red berries, silver baubles, and warm-toned fairy lights inside a tall lantern.
The contrast between red and silver adds festive energy while still feeling modern and polished — a perfect match for any garden table setup.

Lantern Centerpiece with Garland

Group three lanterns of varying sizes on an outdoor dining table, surrounded by a garland of greenery and pinecones.
Add a few ornaments or ribbons to tie the look together — the ideal garden centerpiece for holiday gatherings.

Ice Lanterns

For an unforgettable natural touch, fill a mold with water, pine leaves, and cranberries, then freeze it overnight.
Pop the ice lantern out and place a candle inside — it will glow beautifully in the cold evening air (perfect for snowy climates).

Vintage Tin Lanterns

Repurpose old tin cans by punching star or snowflake shapes into them, then placing a candle inside.
The light shines through the holes, casting twinkling patterns across your garden walls — a charming and affordable DIY idea.

Golden Glow Lanterns

Paint old lanterns in metallic gold and add warm white LED candles for a luxurious festive look.
These pair beautifully with evergreen garlands and create a glamorous garden entrance without much effort.

Mini Lanterns in Planters

Nestle small lanterns into your garden pots or flower beds among winter greenery and ornaments.
It’s a simple way to add depth and sparkle to your landscape — your garden will look alive with festive light even in the coldest months.

A Garden That Glows with Christmas Spirit

Lanterns are the easiest way to bring Christmas magic outdoors — no need for complicated wiring or expensive decor. Whether you hang them from trees, line your pathways, or cluster them on tables, each glowing light adds warmth and wonder to winter nights. With a few DIY touches, your garden can become the coziest Christmas retreat on the block.