Holiday Decorating and Hosting Guide

Setting the Table

It’s not the holidays until your table says it’s the holidays. The dinner table is where traditions, shared stories and meaningful connections come together (along with second helpings of pie, naturally). Layered place settings, serving pieces, candlelight and centerpieces bring a traditional Thanksgiving or classic holiday theme to life. From the cookware you need to the food storage containers for cleanup and leftovers, Kohl’s has all of the essentials you need in one place.

Your Place-Setting Cheat Sheet

Your table’s been waiting all year for this. Gather essential items and serving pieces for holiday entertaining, then follow these simple steps for the perfect Thanksgiving table—no fancy etiquette class required.

Your table’s been waiting all year for this. Gather essential items and serving pieces for entertaining, then follow these simple steps for the perfect Thanksgiving table—no fancy etiquette class required.

  • Step 1

    Start With a Tablecloth or Runner.

    For family meals with kids, choose washable, wrinkle-resistant tablecloths and durable, spill-resistant placemats (because gravy happens).

  • Step 2

    Add Dinnerware.

    Layer a dinner plate with a salad plate or bowl and a folded napkin. For a multi-course meal, stack dinnerware in serving order and simply remove the top piece as each course is served.

  • Step 3

    Add Flatware and Glassware.

    Place forks on the left, knives and spoons on the right, and glasses above the plate. A little table-setting choreography, if you will.

  • Hosting Hack

    Keep casual tables simple. For a traditional Thanksgiving or formal holiday dinner, add chargers, extra utensils, warm-toned linens, seasonal serveware and a centerpiece.

Set the Table, Set the Scene

  • Linens & Dinnerware

    Get your table dressed for dinner. Choose table linens that coordinate with your home decor and seasonal palette. Pair everyday pieces with budget-friendly holiday dinnerware in coordinating colors or finishes for a table that does a lot for a little.

  • Flatware, Glassware & Serveware

    Complete place settings with durable stainless steel flatware and glassware for everyday wine, festive tumblers or toast-worthy champagne flutes. Don’t forget the serving platters, bowls and chargers for every course.

  • Centerpiece

    Make the centerpiece the second best part of dinner. Choose a holiday centerpiece that fits your table size and mood. Keep it below eye-level, then add low-maintenance greenery, candlelight or child-friendly designs to create a festive focal point on a budget. We call that maximum style with minimum stress.

A Table for Every Taste

A table theme is the fastest route from “eh” to “ooh.” Choose from one of the newest holiday trends or go with something more traditional. Popular color schemes such as classic holiday hues, winter whites, earthy neutrals or metallics bring all the holiday spirit. Mix everyday favorites with a few seasonal Kohl’s finds for an elegant table on a first-home budget.

  • Thanksgiving plate setting with fresh fig

    Traditional Thanksgiving & Rustic Harvest

    Use warm autumn colors, natural textures, pumpkins and classic place settings. Like your favorite fall sweater, but for the table.

  • Holiday table setting with snowman plate

    Classic Holiday

    Create a warm, inviting winter table with festive reds and greens, soft textures and metallics. So festive, you can almost hear the bells.

  • Minimalist white plate with greenery sprig

    Modern Minimalist & Modern Farmhouse

    Pair clean, contemporary lines and neutral dinnerware with natural wood and rustic details. Proof that keeping it simple can still look like a whole thing.

  • Holiday plate featuring deer and trees

    Cozy, Yet Chic

    Layer plush textiles, elegant dinnerware and subtle metallics. Comfortable, polished and ready for its close-up.

The Last Course

Pull up a chair to our expert tips and make every seat the best seat at the table.

  • Build a Cohesive Base

    Layer from the tablecloth up, mixing linens, patterns, wood and metallics. Repeat colors for a pulled-together look—like the table version of having your life together.

  • Create a Warm Glow

    Add candlelight, fairy lights or LED candles for a warm, inviting fall table.

  • Make Room For Guests

    Leave space for platters and bowls, then personalize place settings with name cards, napkin rings or small favors. It’s the little details that say, “Yes, I saved you a seat.”