Deciding how to decorate for fall is no small task! We're here to give you all the inspiration and tips you need to take your home from a summer sanctuary to a festive fall haven.
How to Decorate for Fall
Updated on Oct. 03, 2024
As soon as Labor Day has come and gone, things get busy, quickly—and before you know it, it’s already Halloween. Sweater weather like this, though, has us all wondering how to decorate for fall so our homes can suit the season.
Between visiting apple orchards and enjoying all of the pumpkin spice products, we all want to leave a little time to make our home decor feel cozy—after all Halloween and Thanksgiving are on the horizon!
But even if it’s still shorts weather or you haven’t enjoyed your first pumpkin spice latte yet, it’s never too early to think about how to decorate for fall because seasonal decor makes any moment at home feel special.
Let us guide you through all of your options because making your game plan on how to decorate for fall can be just as fun as the decorating itself.
How to Decorate Your Kitchen for Fall
Between cooking for our families and baking for pleasure, we spend so much time in our kitchens—which is why planning how to decorate for fall in the kitchen can be the most fun part of seasonal decorating come September.
Now is the perfect time to whip out those specialty dishes that make each meal feel a little more magical. Don’t be afraid to go all out—you won’t regret buying those pumpkin-shaped bowls each time you enjoy a steamy fall soup this season or the set of ochre-colored dishes you use for every other meal until December.
At the same time, small scale changes can make all the difference too: When it comes to tea towels, swap out your summery linens for cozy waffle knits, and leave out fall candies like candy corn or Halloween M&M’s in snack dishes for you and your family to enjoy throughout the day. Fall tablecloths in patterns like orange and black buffalo plaid can also make a big impact when trying to figure out how to decorate for fall on a budget.
Of course, fall centerpieces don’t hurt either—whether you spruce up your counter with a selection of pumpkins and gourds or make your own bouquets with fall mums, pampas grass or cotton stems.
Here are some ways to spruce up your kitchen for the cooler months:
- Fall hand soaps: Sometimes just the scent of fall is enough to transform your space.
- Fall kitchen gear: Add autumnal flair with linens, bakeware and more.
- Pumpkin dinnerware: These dishes really will transform your kitchen. And how could you not smile every time you serve up a cozy comfort food dinner with these?
Fall Household Decor
Your kitchen isn’t the only place to think about when decorating. When you leave seasonal touches throughout every room in your home (even consider how to decorate your front door for fall!), you’ll get all the fall feels whether you’re cleaning, watching TV or getting ready for the day.
Just like in the kitchen, adding pumpkins and gourds (whether they’re white or orange, mini or full-size) to any room is an easy way to bring the outside in. More specifically, pumpkins are a classic option when considering how to decorate your mantel for fall. We rounded up options for where to buy pumpkins, whether you want to plan an afternoon at the pumpkin patch or just want to swing by the store for quick pickup.
After you bring home your pumpkins, the next most important concept to keep in mind for fall decorating is layering, layering and more layering! Don’t skimp on adding chunky knit blankets and fuzzy throw pillows to your couches to take cuddles to the next level.
If you still want to highlight your home’s existing style when planning how to decorate for fall, consider replacing a few of your current decor items, such as vases, jars, signs and artwork for ones in seasonal patterns and fall decor colors instead of adding more decor to your home. Burnt orange, ivory and other neutrals can act as a subtle nod to the season, or lean into colors like navy and maroon for more lush and bold fall feel.
In any space, light one of our picks for the best fall candles as a finishing touch and you’ll instantly make any room look (and smell!) cozier, whether you want your home to smell like a cinnamon stick or prefer a more sophisticated fall scent like amber.
Want even more autumnal touches to make your home extra cozy?
- Gifts for people that love fall: And it’s OK if that person is you! These are cute additions that you might not have thought of before—but won’t be able to go another October without.
- Apple-inspired goodies: If your favorite part of fall is the apple pie, check out these homey additions from candles to pie pans.
- Fall flowers: Flowers don’t stop just because there’s a chill in the air. Decorate your porch with fresh chrysanthemums or try dried flowers inside.
DIY Fall Decor
While it’s easy to order the cutest fall decor items online or in stores, don’t forget that you can make your own decor too.
While often more inexpensive, DIY decor can widen the possibilities for how to decorate for fall, too. Think: pumpkin-shaped soap in the bathroom, faux apples as candle holders for your side tables and homemade rustic jar toppers in the kitchen. Create floral arrangements with seasonal flowers like mums and sunflowers for a fresh pop of color, or take on some fall crafts for kids like leaf painting and food-inspired crafts like Oreo Rice Krispie turkeys.
Finally, you can’t leave out classic fall crafts like carving jack-o’-lanterns! If you need a refresher, here are some tips on how to carve a pumpkin, or if you’re an experienced carver wanting to try something new, here are some ideas for painting pumpkins if you want to skip the mess this year.
Want more DIY ideas? We’ve got ’em!
-
- Easy fall crafts for kids and parents: Start simple with these crafts featuring paper bats, acorns and more.
- DIY fall centerpieces: These are perfect for Thanksgiving and fall entertaining.
- Homemade wreaths: Welcome loved ones to your home with something you made yourself.
- Make your own fall decor: These ideas are just right for fall (and we bet you haven’t thought of these crafts yet).
How to Decorate for Halloween and Thanksgiving
When learning how to decorate for fall, it’s tempting to rely on decor that will last you from September to November, but don’t forget that it’s fun to have some uber seasonal elements for the slew of fall holidays that we all look forward to.
While holiday-specific options can span all kinds of fall decor ideas, seasonal fall wreaths are especially perfect for welcoming guests into your home for holiday gatherings. Consider making your own harvest-themed wreath for September, a Halloween wreath for October, and a Thanksgiving-themed wreath for November to hang on your front door. Add a fall rug and you’ll be all done deciding how to decorate your front porch for fall (we’re partial to this popular “hello, pumpkin” rug).
If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, planning Thanksgiving decor for not only your kitchen and dining areas but for your entire home will make your gathering more memorable for both you and your guests.
Choosing which theme and Thanksgiving table ideas you want to focus on ahead of time will help you feel more prepared, so you can focus on enjoying the holiday instead of your host or hostess duties the weeks and days before the get-together.
Learn how to set a table for Thanksgiving now, whether you need to know where exactly to place the salad plate at each setting (Hint: It goes right on top of the dinner plate) or you just need some ideas on what to include on a kids’ table.
Here are more ways to fill your home with harvest-time flair this Thanksgiving:
- Thanksgiving tablecloths: No doubt about it: You’ll want a good set of seasonal linens for the biggest dinner of the year.
- Thanksgiving table ideas: The table is the star of the show. Here are 40+ ways to style it right.
- All the Thanksgiving decor: Don’t skip from Halloween right to Christmas. These decorations prove it’s worth it to take a pause for this thankful season (and decorate the house right).
No matter how you choose how to decorate for fall, whether you want one-size-fits-all decor for the whole season or you want holiday-specific pieces every month, the options are endless—and endlessly festive!
Whip up some fall foods as you dream about how to decorate for fall!
Try Our Best Fall Recipes!
Sausage & Rice Stuffed PumpkinsMy children often request this dish. It also adds a great "wow" factor to a festive buffet table.—Andria Peckham, Lowell, Michigan
Grampa’s German-Style Pot RoastGrampa was of German heritage and loved the old-world recipes his mother gave him. I made a few changes so I could prepare this dish in a slow cooker and give it a slightly updated flavor. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Hearty Butternut Squash SoupThe comforting combination of squash, meat, beans and veggies makes this my go-to soup in fall. It's full of freshness. —Jaye Beeler, Grand Rapids, Michigan
Brown Rice and VegetablesThis filling rice dish, full of big chunks of butternut squash and sweet potatoes, is a standout combination of sweet and savory flavors. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Pumpkin Whoopie PiesEmbrace the flavors of fall with pumpkin whoopie pies. Our recipe combines spiced pumpkin cookies with a fluffy cream filling for a seasonal dessert appropriate for autumn gatherings and Halloween parties.
Turkey Stew with DumplingsMy husband and I love dumplings, and this mild-tasting, homey dish has flavorful ones floating on a tasty turkey and vegetable stew. It really hits the spot on chilly fall and winter days. —Rita Taylor, St. Cloud, Minnesota
Chunky ApplesauceCook up a warm, comforting batch of chunky applesauce with tart apples and cinnamon. Ready in just 30 minutes, this simple recipe is ideal for fall.
Pork Chops & Acorn SquashMy husband and I are crazy for the squash we grow in our garden. For a sweet and tangy dish, we slow-cook it with pork chops and orange juice. —Mary Johnson, Coloma, Wisconsin
Cheeseburger SoupFind out why this easy cheeseburger soup recipe is one of the top-rated recipes on our site!
Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider VinaigretteWe bought loads of apples and needed to use them. To help the flavors come alive, I roasted the apples and tossed them with a sweet dressing. —Janice Elder, Charlotte, North Carolina
Chocolate Chai Mini LoavesThis bread is irresistible! A friend gets mad when I make it because I give her a loaf and she can't help but eat the whole thing! —Lisa Christensen, Poplar Grove, Illinois
Sweet Potato Casserole with PecansThis creamy, comforting sweet potato casserole with pecans is such a treat, it could almost be served as dessert. Most often, it makes an ideal sweet-savory side dish alongside green salad or roasted veggies.
Pork Tenderloin with Cranberry-Orange RelishI like how grilled pork and fruit bring out the best in each other. If you have leftover relish, break out the tortilla chips! —Cindy Esposito, Bloomfield, New Jersey
“Everything” StuffingMy family goes crazy for this stuffing that I make in the slow cooker. It freezes well so we can enjoy it long after Thanksgiving has passed. —Bette Votral, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Pumpkin LasagnaI especially like this comforting fall dish because it's vegetarian. Even friends who aren't big fans of pumpkin are surprised by this delectable lasagna. Canned pumpkin and no-cook noodles make it a cinch to prepare. —Tamara Huron, New Market, Alabama
Maple Pork RibsA luscious maple-mustard sauce will take your next plate of ribs to a new level. —Phyllis Schmalz, Kansas City, Kansas
Sweet Potato BreadOne slice of this warm, tender sweet potato bread and you’ll see why it’s one of our favorite sweet potato fall desserts.
Cream of Potato SoupWhen nights turn chilly, fire up the stove to make a cozy cream of potato soup recipe. Enjoy the smooth, creamy soup plain or jazz it up with toppings like herbs and bacon bits.
Apple Cider Chicken Quinoa SkilletSince I’m especially busy with three active teenagers, I don’t have much time to get dinner on the table in the evening. Instead, I rely on quick options, like this one-skillet dish that boasts essential proteins, veggies and good carbohydrates. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Balsamic Roasted Chicken Thighs with Root VegetablesI will always remember the way my grandmother's house smelled when she made these balsamic chicken thighs every Sunday. Ever since she gave me the recipe, the heartwarming flavors always take me back to my childhood. —Erin Chilcoat, Central Islip, New York
Potato Pumpkin MashNo more plain white mashed potatoes for us! I swirl fresh pumpkin into potatoes for a little extra holiday color. —Michelle Medley, Dallas, Texas
Sausage & Swiss Chard LasagnaRustic and comforting, I found this rich and cheesy lasagna to be a great way to get kids to eat healthy greens—it's such a tasty casserole they'll never know the Swiss chard is there! —Candace Morehouse, Show Low, Arizona
Vegan Butternut Squash SoupApple and winter squash are fantastic together. They are the perfect pair for this cozy, vegan butternut squash soup. For a slightly different flavor that still features classic fall produce, substitute a ripe pear for the apple. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
This is one of the fall soup recipes that will keep you warm this fall.
Caramel Pear PuddingDon't expect this old-fashioned dessert to last long. The delicate pears and irresistible caramel topping make it a winner whenever I serve it. It's nice to have a tempting fall cake that puts the season's best pears to excellent use.
—Sharon Mensing, Greenfield, Iowa
Slow Cooker Pot RoastWhat if you could get the perfect pot roast with half the work, but double the flavor? Good news: You can. Here's how, with the help of our best slow-cooker pot roast recipe.
This is just one of the warm and cozy fall dinner recipes you need to try.
Mushroom and Brown Rice Hash with Poached EggsI made my mother's famous roast beef hash healthier by using cremini mushrooms instead of beef, and brown rice instead of potatoes. It's ideal for a light main dish. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Apple Dumplings with Crescent RollsWhen you don't have time to make them the traditional way, apple dumplings with crescent rolls make for an easy and delicious dessert. Forget fussing with a crust, just roll these up and pop them in the oven.
Chicken Wild Rice SoupThis easy chicken wild rice soup is hearty, cozy and comforting. Featuring leftover chicken and precooked rice, it's a total winner in terms of taste and time.
Tortellini CarbonaraWant a creamy pasta dish that's neither macaroni and cheese nor Alfredo? This tortellini carbonara hits all the right notes when it comes to cheesy goodness, not to mention the bacon. It's decadent, delicious and decidedly easy to make.
Pretty Pumpkin Cinnamon BunsIndulge in these pumpkin cinnamon rolls for a cozy and delightful twist on the classic treat. Perfect for autumn mornings, these rolls are filled with pumpkin, cinnamon and a sweet glaze that will make your breakfast extra special.
Wild Rice, Quinoa & Cranberry SaladThis fragrant salad is a vitamin and protein powerhouse. Toss in leftover cooked turkey to make it a meal the next day. —Jerilyn Korver, Bellflower, California
Chicken Sausage & Gnocchi SkilletI had a bunch of fresh veggies and combined them with sausage, gnocchi and goat cheese when I needed a quick dinner. Mix and match your own ingredients for unique results. —Dahlia Abrams, Detroit, Michigan
Pumpkin Doughnut DropsI always have a few special treats handy when the grandchildren visit. These cake doughnuts are one of their favorite snacks. —Beva Staum, Muscoda, Wisconsin
Turkey Sausage-Stuffed Acorn SquashFinding healthy recipes the family will eat is a challenge. This elegant squash is one we love, and it works with pork or chicken sausage, too. —Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, Georgia
Pork Chops and NoodlesIndulge in the comforting flavors of tender pork chops smothered in a tangy mustard sauce, served over creamy egg noodles. This hearty dish, inspired by classic European cuisine, is a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Orange-Glazed Pork LoinThis is one of the best pork recipes I've ever tried. My family looks forward to this roast for dinner, and guests always want the recipe. The flavorful rub, and the glaze brightened with orange juice, are also outstanding on pork chops. —Lynnette Miete, Alna, Maine
Pear Harvest SaladWe came up with this delicious salad trying to use up leftover turkey after Thanksgiving. We think you'll love it, too! —Nancy Prewitt, Beaverton, Oregon
Sweet Potato BiscuitsLearn how to make sweet potato biscuits that bake up flaky and tall—and of course, orange!
Northwoods Wild Rice SaladThis is my Minnesota version of a vintage German slaw that’s popular at church suppers. The wild rice has a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with tangy sauerkraut. —Jeanne Holt, St. Paul, Minnesota
Maple-Roasted Chicken & Acorn SquashWhen I became a new mother, my mom helped me find comforting and simple recipes to have on hand. This terrific roast chicken is a happy discovery. —Sara Eilers, Surprise, Arizona
White Turkey ChiliHere's proof that chili doesn't have to be tomato-red. This white turkey chili makes delicious use of leftover turkey meat.
The Best Pecan PiePecan pie is a Thanksgiving tradition in my house, and I was on a quest to create the ultimate version. This might be it!—James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor
Spiced Acorn SquashWorking full time, I found I didn't always have time to cook the meals my family loved, so I re-created many of those dishes in the slow cooker. This treatment for squash is one of our favorites. —Carol Greco, Centereach, New York
Cauliflower SoupThis is the cauliflower soup recipe we reach for on a cold winter day. It only takes 30 minutes to transform a head of cauliflower into a cheesy, creamy, ultra-comforting soup.
Hasselback Sweet PotatoesHasselback sweet potatoes may look like a fancy restaurant dish, but they're super easy to prepare. Buttery and naturally sweet, this must-try side is beloved by everyone at the table—even the pickiest eaters.
Orange-Chip Cranberry BreadTart berries, crunchy nuts and sweet chocolate are simply scrumptious when mixed together in this easy quick bread. Sometimes I'll top it off with an orange-flavored glaze. —Donna Smith, Fairport, New York
Cranberry-Walnut OatmealMy family loves cranberries but we can get them fresh only during the holiday season. This recipe lets us enjoy the tartness of cranberry with the comfort of oatmeal all year long. —Teena Petrus, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Slow-Cooker German BratwurstI created this old-world favorite based on a dish I had during my travels. The flavorful entree is perfect for weeknights or special occasions. I like to serve this slow-cooker bratwurst with pasta. —Gerald Hetrick, Erie, Pennsylvania
Garlic and Herb Mashed PotatoesThere are mashed potatoes, and then there are garlic mashed potatoes (even better!). These potatoes are rich and downright decadent, a perfect side dish for your next gathering.
Pumpkin ChiliThis chili's special ingredient, pumpkin, makes it incredibly delicious and even more nutritious. Black beans, turkey, tomatoes and even chicken broth team up for a lovely slow-cooker meal that's bound to vanish in a flash. It's no surprise this pumpkin chili is one of our contest-winning recipes.
Chicken & Garlic with Fresh HerbsThe key to this savory chicken is the combination of garlic, fresh rosemary and thyme. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty Italian bread. —Jan Valdez, Lombard, Illinois
Cranberry Appetizer MeatballsFor a memorable meatball party snack with a tangy non-traditional sauce, I suggest this recipe. The meatballs are mouthwatering.—Jim Ulberg, Elk Rapids, Michigan
Badger State StuffingYour family will love the contrasting sweet, savory and slightly tart flavors in this spin on a Thanksgiving classic. Feel free to use your favorite beer or dried fruit to make the dish your own. —Andrea Fetting, Franklin, Wisconsin
Maple-Glazed Apple PieEven though we've lived in Florida for three years, I still feel like a Vermonter. My parents send us a bushel of Vermont apples each fall, and we try to visit in the spring to do some sugaring. —Patricia Putnam, Lakeland, Florida
Beef and Sausage ChiliThanks to multiple meats, a generous helping of beans and the classic chili trifecta of tomatoes, onions and peppers, this slow-cooker beef and sausage chili is tender, filling and oh-so tasty.
Meatball StroganoffA quick and delicious twist on the classic, our meatball stroganoff uses frozen meatballs to get dinner on the table in just 30 minutes.
New England Bean & Bog CassouletWhen I moved to New England, I embraced the local cuisine. My cassoulet with baked beans pays tribute to a French classic and to New England in one hearty, heartwarming dish. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut
Slow-Cooker Chai TeaA wonderful sweet and spicy aroma wafts from the slow cooker as this fragrant and flavorful chai tea cooks. —Crystal Jo Burns, Iliff, Colorado
Enchilada Stuffed ShellsI served this entree to my husband, my sister and my brother-in-law, who is a hard-to-please eater. He said he liked it and even took leftovers for lunch the next day—I was thrilled! —Rebecca Stout, Conroe, Texas
Roasted Squash and CarrotsSweet and savory, roasted squash and carrots are cooked with crunchy walnuts, brown sugar and warming spices for a side dish that’s sure to elevate any meal.
Roasted Vegetables with SageWhen I can't decide what vegetable to serve at dinner, I turn to this oven-roasted medley that features brussels sprouts, potatoes, carrots and butternut squash. It pleases everyone around the table.—Betty Fulks, Onia, Arkansas
Parmesan-Bacon Bubble BreadWhen I needed to put some leftover bread dough to good use, I started with a recipe I often use for bubble bread and substituted savory ingredients for the sweet. —Lori McLain, Denton, Texas
Mini Pumpkin CakesI saw these cute cakes at a local grocery store and decided to make my own version at home. They’re a hit at any fall gathering. —Jennifer Dorff, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Thanksgiving Stuffed ShellsLeftover turkey, dressing and sweet potatoes make terrific stuffing for jumbo pasta shells. We add cheese and use turkey gravy as the sauce for this crowd-pleaser. —Robin Haas, Cranston, Rhode Island
Ham ChowderThis ham chowder recipe is chock-full of ham, bacon, potatoes and cheese—all ingredients we love on their own, but even more so together. A warm bowl will warm you up from the inside, out!
Sheet-Pan Chicken and VeggiesOur sheet-pan chicken and veggies recipe features herby chicken thighs, roasted red potatoes and spinach in one no-muss, no-fuss dish. The best part: Cleanup is a breeze!
Caramel Apple StrudelMy father, who was born and raised in Vienna, Austria, would tell us stories about how his mother covered all the kitchen counters with dough whenever she made apple strudel. This recipe is a modern, delicious way to carry on part of my family's heritage. —Sarah Haengel, Bowie, Maryland
Pumpkin BisqueWhen the weather turns cold, this rich, silky-smooth pumpkin bisque will warm you from the inside out. It's quick and easy to make, and filled with flavor.
Mom's Meat LoafThis traditional meat loaf recipe creates a tender, juicy meat loaf topped with a caramelized glaze. The best part: It’s so easy to make, and it’s ready to eat in about an hour!
Fruit CakeThis chewy, sweet and, most importantly, simple fruit cake recipe will bring joy to any holiday gathering. It's filled with tasty additions like three types of candied fruit and a heaping mound of crunchy walnuts for a fun-filled celebratory must.
Cheese & Pumpkin-Filled ManicottiOur family adores autumn and anything to do with pumpkins! This warm, comforting recipe is so easy to put together on a cool fall weeknight. When I have time, I make homemade ravioli and tortellini using this same filling. It also works well in stuffed shells. —Mandy Howison, Renfrew, Pennsylvania
Roasted Acorn Squash & Brussels SproutsI love creating dishes with few ingredients and easy steps, like squash with Brussels sprouts. Maple syrup adds a slight sweetness, and pecans give it a toasty crunch. —Angela LeMoine, Howell, New Jersey
Baked Parmesan Breaded SquashOur oven-fried squash recipe is about as easy as they come. It's a crispy, crunchy way to use a bumper crop of summer squash.
Chicken Broccoli ShellsThis cheesy entree is a make-ahead dream. Just assemble it ahead of time and put it in the oven when company arrives. I round out the meal with a tossed salad and warm bread. —Karen Jagger, Columbia City, Indiana
Chipotle Butternut Squash SoupMy hearty soup uses herbs and vegetables from the garden along with convenient pantry items, so it’s easy, fast and mostly fresh. Your family will devour it. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Vegetable LasagnaThis cheesy vegetable lasagna recipe is absolutely packed with veggies. With a few substitutions, it can also be made gluten-free, dairy-free or vegan.
Chocolate Peanut Butter CakeDecorate like a professional baker and become everyone's favorite host when you bake this sweet and salty chocolate peanut butter cake.
Sweet Potato Casserole with PecansThis convenient sweet potato casserole with pecan topping calls for canned sweet potatoes, so preparation time is minimal. The nutty brown sugar topping adds a bit of crunch. —Anita Briner, Etters, Pennsylvania
Best Ever Mac & CheeseTo make this amazing mac, I make a sauce loaded with three different cheeses to toss with the noodles. When baked, it's gooey goodness with a crunchy topping that...don't get me started! —Beth Jacobson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Apple Crisp PizzaWhile visiting the bakery at a Wisconsin apple orchard, I tried this tempting treat. At home, I put together this recipe. As it bakes, the enticing aroma fills my kitchen, and friends and family linger waiting for a sample. —Nancy Preussner, Delhi, Iowa
Cornish PastiesMy great-aunt Gladys was from a small mining town in England where pasties were popular. I loved to watch her craft each Cornish pasty, as she made them in different sizes depending on who was eating. —Verna Hainer, Pueblo, Colorado
Acorn TreatsYou only need three ingredients to make these super simple acorn cookies! —Jane Stasik, Greendale, Wisconsin
