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50 Alternative Christmas Trees to Try This Year

Updated on November 20, 2023

Real evergreens and artificial trees aren't the only Christmas tree options available. Check out these alternative holiday trees that are far from the ordinary.

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Photo: Marian Parsons. From: Marian Parsons.

Opt for the Unexpected With an Alternative Christmas Tree

Classic Christmas trees wrapped in garland, baubles and lights are the traditional focal point for holiday decorating. That said, sometimes towering balsam trees feel out of place and visually overwhelm small spaces. Whether you’re decking the halls in a cozy studio apartment, dressing up your office space or looking for a kid-friendly tree, you’re in the right place. We’re sharing 50+ unique Christmas tree alternatives to usher unforgettable charm into your home this holiday season.

First up? A chalkboard tree complete with handmade trimmings. Kids will love seeing their handmade ornaments and decorations used at Christmas. This colorful yarn garland is fun and simple to make for kids of all ages. String it across a flat, graphic chalkboard tree for an extra wow factor.

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Photo: Cassidy Garcia

"Trim" Your Trees

Bring Christmas cheer to your entryway or breakfast table with a few vases you already have on hand and fresh greenery trimmings. Take notes from this lush trio and dangle a mix of metallic and pearlescent glass baubles from the branches for an elevated, elegant appeal.

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Photo: Sarah Busby

Kid-Safe Stack

Welcome Christmas into your stairway or kids’ playroom with this easy (and safe!) tree alternative. Save six to 10 of your (many) Amazon package boxes and dress them for the holidays with alternating evergreen and gold wrapping paper. Stack the boxes from largest to smallest to mimic tiered branches, and top the lot with a pointed paper star to round out the display.

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Photo: Sarah Busby

Patchwork Pine

Looking for another tot-proof or cat-proof Christmas tree idea? Give this patchwork wall tree a go! Install scrap stationery, wallpaper and wrapping paper with washi tape to create a vibrant wall-pasted Christmas tree. Not only is this idea inexpensive to execute, but it’s easily installed on any wall in your house.

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