5 Fun & Festive Places to Hang Garland in Your Family-Friendly Home

If you're like me, then the moment autumn rolls around or December approaches, you start dreaming of twinkling lights, warm wood tones, and yes—garlands! But when you've got kids, pets, or just a chaotic daily routine, hanging garland can feel risky. Fear not! With the right planning and placement, garland can add charm without chaos.

In this article, we’ll explore 5 creative and safe places to hang garland in your family-friendly space. Whether you’re decorating for the holidays or just adding a touch of seasonal flair, these tips will keep your decor joyful, secure, and picture-perfect.

Table of Contents

• Why Garlands Are Perfect for Family Spaces
• Safety Tips Before You Hang Anything
• 1. Staircase Balustrades
• 2. Mantles & Fireplaces (Even Fake Ones)
• 3. Around Mirrors or Artwork
• 4. Doorways & Entryways
• 5. Indoors vs. Outdoors: Which Works Better?
• Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Garland for Your Space
• Final Thoughts

Why Garlands Are Perfect for Family Spaces

Garlands are more than just holiday decorations—they’re versatile tools for creating cozy, inviting spaces throughout the year. They’re easy to drape, come in endless styles, and can be reused season after season if stored properly. Best of all, they offer a soft, natural or festive texture that complements any room without being too overwhelming.

Safety First: Tips Before You Hang Garland

Before we dive into where to hang garland, let’s talk safety—especially important in homes with little hands or curious paws:

• Avoid low-hanging areas where kids can tug on them easily.
• Use child-safe mounting methods like removable adhesive hooks or command strips.
• Keep garlands away from heat sources like fireplaces or candles.
• Choose lightweight materials such as faux greenery or fabric-based garlands to avoid heavy items falling.

1. Staircase Balustrades

Staircases are prime real estate for garland! They naturally draw the eye and make for an elegant entryway statement. Plus, they’re often out of reach from little ones.

Pro tip: Use a ribbon or wired garland so you can twist it gently around the banister. Secure every few feet with clear zip ties or discreet clips to prevent slipping.

2. Mantles & Fireplaces (Even Fake Ones)

Fireplace mantles are one of the most popular spots to hang garland—and for good reason. Even if you don’t have a real fireplace, faux mantles or entertainment centers can double as charming display areas.

To elevate the look, try layering your garland with small ornaments, pine cones, or string lights. Just make sure there's no risk of flammable materials near actual flames!

3. Around Mirrors or Artwork

This is a fun and unexpected place to hang garland! Draping a garland around a large mirror or above a gallery wall adds dimension and whimsy.

Try using thin fishing line or small nails/hooks to create a floating effect. It works especially well during the holidays when you want to frame photos or special displays.

Pros	Cons
Unique focal point	Can be tricky to install
Great for photography	May require extra support

4. Doorways & Entryways

Add a welcoming touch by hanging garland across doorways. Whether it’s the front entrance or between rooms, a simple swag of garland instantly sets the mood.

You can go minimalist with a single strand of greenery or amp it up with lights and bows. For added drama, tie it in the center with a ribbon or bow.

5. Indoors vs. Outdoors: Which Works Better?

The age-old question: should you hang garland inside or outside? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Indoor Garlands	Outdoor Garlands
Better for delicate or artificial materials	Durable for weather-resistant events
More control over placement and safety	Perfect for curb appeal and neighborhood parties
Longer lifespan due to less exposure	Need UV protection and waterproofing

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Garland for Your Space

Now that you know where to hang garland, let’s talk about what kind to buy. The market is full of options—from fresh evergreen to realistic-looking faux varieties. Let’s break down the best choices based on your needs:

Faux Greenery Garland

• Material: PE or PVC leaves, wire core for bending
• Length: Usually comes in 6ft–20ft lengths
• Best for: Indoor use, long-term decoration
• Pros: Reusable, allergy-free, no mess
• Cons: Less aromatic than real greenery

Fresh Evergreen Garland

• Material: Real fir, pine, or cedar
• Length: Typically sold in 6ft–10ft bundles
• Best for: Holiday celebrations, outdoors
• Pros: Natural scent, luxurious texture
• Cons: Dries quickly, may shed needles

Fabric or Felt Garland

• Material: Wool, felt, burlap, or velvet
• Length: Customizable via DIY or pre-made loops
• Best for: Kids’ rooms, nurseries, or rustic themes
• Pros: Soft, safe, customizable colors
• Cons: Not ideal for formal settings

Led Lighted Garland

• Material: Faux greenery + built-in LED lights
• Length: 6ft–20ft, battery or plug-in
• Best for: Nighttime ambiance, low-light areas
• Pros: Adds lighting without extra wiring
• Cons: More expensive, heavier

Final Thoughts

Hanging garland in a family-friendly home doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style or safety. With thoughtful placement and the right materials, you can bring warmth, joy, and a dash of magic into your space—all while keeping everything kid- and pet-proofed.

So grab your favorite garland, follow these tips, and get ready to transform your home into a festive haven. Whether it’s on your staircase, mantle, mirror, doorway, or even your outdoor porch, there’s a perfect spot waiting for your decorative touch.

And remember: A little garland goes a long way. Don’t overdo it—let each placement shine individually. Happy decorating!