How to Style a Candy-Themed Tree with Candyland Twist!

While I like traditional Christmas decoration colors like red and green, I love to design and explore different colors and themes for our Christmas trees every year! I remember seeing the most beautiful “candy-themed tree” a couple of years ago at one of my favorite hotels in Manhattan, New York.

That Christmas tree decoration was out of this world, and it inspired me to decorate these lovely Candy Cane Christmas trees. I loved how they turned out! This year, I decided to go with a different style of candy-themed Christmas trees with a fun Candyland twist!

Although my girls LOVE this Christmas theme, I did not come up with this idea only because of them. I simply think not only do these trees look beautiful, but they also fill your home with the sweet scent of the holidays (which I love)!!!

Candyland Christmas Decorations

If you’re looking to create a candy-themed/Candyland Christmas tree this year, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, choose a color scheme that complements your candy decorations.

For example, you might want to go with a red and white theme if you’re using a lot of candy canes, or a rainbow theme if you’re using a variety of different candies. Also, make sure to choose a tree that is the right size for your space, and that can support the weight of your decorations.

1- Choose Your Candy-Themed Tree

Just like any other Christmas decoration theme, if you are looking to create a candy-themed Christmas tree, selecting the right tree is important.

In this section, I’ll cover two important aspects of choosing your candy-themed tree: selecting the perfect tree for your living room and choosing the right color scheme and decorations.

Selecting the Perfect Tree

Here are some tips to help you select the perfect Christmas tree for your candy-themed decorations:

Choose the Right Type of Tree:
- Artificial or Real: Decide whether you want an artificial tree or a real one. Artificial trees are reusable and often come pre-lit, making them so convenient. Real trees bring a natural fragrance to your home, which is lovely!
- Tree Species: If you opt for a real tree, consider a species with strong branches to support the weight of your decorations.
Size Matters:
- Measure Your Space: Before heading out to buy a tree, measure the space where you plan to place it. Most people place their Christmas tree in the family room. Make sure there is enough room for the tree to stand upright and that it won’t be too cramped.
- Proportions: A well-proportioned tree is important for a visually beautiful display. Make sure the tree is neither too small nor too large for your space.
Color and Shape:
- Color: Consider the color of the tree needles. A white Christmas tree is always a good idea for a colorful candy theme! White trees make the candy ornaments pop so much better on the tree! A green tree provides a traditional look, but you can also find trees with frosted tips for a “snowy effect”.
- Shape: Choose a tree with a shape that complements your decorating style. Full and symmetrical trees work well for a traditional look, while slender or asymmetrical trees can add a modern touch. I personally like full and symmetrical trees more than any other shapes! However, this is a personal choice. So go with the shape that works for you!
Strong Branches:
- Sturdy Branches: Candy-themed decorations can be relatively heavy. Make sure the tree you choose has sturdy branches that can support the weight of ornaments and lights.
Pre-lit or Not:
- Pre-lit Trees: If you opt for an artificial tree, consider getting one that is pre-lit. This can save you time and effort in stringing lights, allowing you to focus on your candy-themed decorations.
Theme-Appropriate Decorations:
- Candy-Themed Decorations: Choose ornaments, garlands, and lights that fit your candy-themed vision. Look for colorful and whimsical decorations like candy canes, gumdrops, lollipops, and ribbons in candy colors.

2- Colorful Candy Color Palette: Bright Pastels

Once you’ve selected your tree, it’s time to choose your color scheme and decorations. When it comes to a candy-themed Christmas tree, the possibilities are endless.

You can choose a classic red and white candy cane color scheme or go for something more colorful and vibrant (like what I did this year)! Here are some tips to help you create a vibrant and festive look:

Bright Pastels: Choose a good range of bright pastel colors, such as bubblegum pink, mint green, lavender, and Tiffany blue. These colors will create a beautiful and sugary atmosphere reminiscent of a candy wonderland.
Rainbow Colors: Think of a “rainbow of colors” to represent the different candies found in a Candyland setting. Think about including yellow, light green, light blue, and violet. This can add a lively and festive touch to your tree.
Candy Wrapper Metallics: Introduce metallic accents inspired by candy wrappers. Consider using silver and gold metallic ornaments to add a touch of shimmer and elegance to the playful color palette.
Candy Patterns: Look for decorations that mimic the patterns found on candies, such as stripes and polka dots. This can add a sense of fun and tie the theme together.
Gumdrops and Lollipops: Bring in the shapes and colors of gumdrops and lollipops. Use ornaments in the shape of these candies and incorporate their vibrant colors into your palette.
Candy Characters: If you have candy-themed characters or ornaments, incorporate their colors into the overall scheme. For example, if you have gingerbread people or candy-shaped characters, use their colors as inspiration.
Sweet Treat Textures: Mix in textures that evoke the feel of different candies. For example, consider incorporating shiny, glossy, and matte finishes to mimic the textures of different sweets.
Balancing Colors: Make sure you create a good balance of colors across the tree! That way, no single color dominates. This will create a visually beautiful and cohesive look.
Top it Off with Candy: For the tree topper, consider using a large candy ornament or a whimsical candy-themed star to complete the look. I am personally not a big fan of “tree toppers”, however, some people make them look so beautiful!

3- Candy Ornaments: A Sugary Symphony

Ornament Selection

When it comes to ornaments for your candy-themed tree, there are a few options! Start by coordinating the color scheme to showcase the sweetness of candies.

Mix up shapes and sizes to create a beautiful visual! Use classic candy shapes like lollipops, gumdrops, and candy canes. Add texture with a mix of shiny and matte finishes.

You can also have fun with sweet treats, like ice cream and other fun ornaments that fit your theme. Etsy sellers offer a whole host of handmade pieces, including a selection of four-star and 5-star reviews.

They offer unique takes on the candy cane theme and you can even find made-to-order items that are customizable to your preferences. You can also find some interesting candy ornaments on Amazon and your local craft stores! You can always find unique pieces on Etsy!

Remember this: While it’s tempting to go all-in on candy, balance is key. Make sure to add some “non-candy ornaments” to diversify the look and add dimension.

Additionally, think about the overall theme coherence, making sure each ornament contributes to the Candyland aesthetic. Fragility is another factor to consider, so opt for sturdier ornaments, especially if the tree will be in a high-traffic area or if you have little kids!

If you want to create a very festive “Candyland atmosphere”, think about using scented ornaments that bring an extra layer of sweetness to your family room. Before finalizing the arrangement, try different placements to get the perfect balance on your candy-themed Christmas tree.

4- Ribbons and Bows

Using ribbons and bows in your candy-themed Christmas tree adds an extra layer of beauty and delight to your candy Christmas tree! Opt for different ribbon textures, such as satin or grosgrain. Also, consider using ribbons in the shape of candy canes or peppermint twists to bring a playful twist to your tree.

To get a visually beautiful effect, I recommend placing ribbons throughout the tree. Create bows using the ribbons and position them at intervals, resembling beautifully wrapped candies adorning the branches.

The incorporation of ribbons not only adds a touch of elegance but also ties the candy-themed elements together, completing the overall look with sugary swirls and candy wrappings.

5- Sweet Lights: Illuminating the Candy Wonderland

My trees are already pre-lit. However, if your trees are not pre-lit, try to incorporate soft and colorful lights. Opt for string lights in pastel colors reminiscent of candies, such as light blues, light greens, and yellows, to give an extra “sugary glow” to your candy tree.

You also want to make sure that you create a balanced distribution of lights throughout the tree! Experiment with different lighting techniques to add depth and dimension to your candy-themed tree.

For a dynamic touch, incorporate twinkling or flashing lights that mimic the whimsy of falling snow or the twinkle of holiday magic.

To increase the Candyland atmosphere, consider using LED lights that can be programmed to shift between a spectrum of colors, creating a stunning and ever-changing display. The combination of vibrant, candy-colored lights will transform your tree into a true Candyland!

6- Tree Skirt and Decorative Base: Sweets on Display

Choosing the right tree skirt or decorative base is such an easy way to complete the Candy Land theme for your Christmas trees!

Try to look for skirts with fun pictures of candies, lollipops, and gumdrops! Complementing the skirt with a decorative base that continues the candy theme is a great way to tie the look together.

A base shaped like an oversized candy cane or a festive bucket filled with faux candies can add an extra touch of whimsy to the overall presentation.

Coordinating the tree skirt and base with colorful ornaments in the shape of sweets, such as gingerbread men, candy canes, and sugarplums, will create a cohesive and visually beautiful candy wonderland around the base of your Christmas tree.

7- Festive Surroundings: Extend the Theme to the Room

To extend the candy-themed beyond the Christmas tree and create a festive ambiance throughout the room, consider incorporating complementary decorations. Begin by dressing the room with candy-colored accessories such as throw pillows and blankets!

Besides the visual elements, engage the sense of smell by introducing candy-scented candles or air fresheners (I LOVE candy-scented candles)! They smell AMAZING!! You can also use fragrances like peppermint, cotton candy, or gingerbread!

You can also arrange bowls of colorful wrapped candies as table centerpieces, offering both a visual treat and a delightful snack for guests.

By decorating the room with a combination of visual and tactile candy-inspired elements, you can create a festive and immersive Candyland experience that extends beyond the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree.

Where to Buy Your Decorations

1- Etsy: One of the best places to find unique and handmade decorations is on Etsy! I have the Etsy app on my phone and always try to look for unique decorations on Etsy!

2- Amazon: As you know, Amazon is Amazon for a reason! hahah! You can always find what you need on Amazon! Usually, the products are not handmade (like Etsy). However, you can always find lots of great things on Amazon (including ornaments, bows, tree skirts, and so much more).

3- Department stores: If I can’t find what I’m looking for on Etsy or Amazon, then I look online and search at department stores. The ornament prices and decorations are higher at Department stores, compared to Amazon. However, you can find higher-quality ornaments and decorations.

Neiman Marcus Home
Saks Fifth Avenue Home
Macy’s Home
Nordstrom’s Home
Bloomingdale’s Home
Dillard’s
Lord & Taylor

4- Home decor stores:

West Elm
Pottery Barn
Crate & Barrel
Anthropologie
CB2
Wayfair
World Market

5- Craft supplies stores:

Michaels
Joann Fabrics
Hobby Lobby
Paper Source

6- Other stores:

Target
Walmart
Kohl’s
Bed Bath & Beyond
HomeGoods
Overstock
Kirkland’s

7- Local home boutiques: Another great option is to check out your local home boutiques for one-of-a-kind decorations during Christmas time, things like candy garlands, mini candy canes, and unique white ornaments that blend well with your candy theme decor. Usually, the local boutiques have more limited selections than department stores. However, you can always find some great options for your candy-themed tree.

8- Local Christmas Markets: Explore local Christmas markets or craft fairs in your area. Many artisans and small businesses sell unique and handmade Christmas decorations, including candy-themed ones.

Maintaining and Storing Your Tree

Maintaining and storing Christmas trees (artificial or real) is so important to preserve their festive beauty for years. For artificial trees, regular maintenance involves gently dusting the branches to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.

We usually keep our Christmas trees in their original boxes and keep them safe in the storage area in our garage for next Christmas. However, some people do not like storing their trees in the box!

If you are one of those people, make sure to maintain cleaning your artificial tree with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, checking for any loose or damaged branches and securing them in place. That way your tree maintains its full and symmetrical shape.

Avoid the Extreme Temperatures

I think storing an artificial Christmas tree in its original packaging or a dedicated tree storage bag helps protect it from dust, moisture, and potential damage during the off-season. Avoid exposing the tree to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight during storage to prevent fading or warping.

On the other hand, real Christmas trees require a different set of maintenance and storage considerations. To keep a real tree vibrant throughout the holiday season, regular watering is very important.

Place the tree in a water-filled stand and make sure the water level is consistently maintained. This helps prevent the needles from drying out and dropping prematurely.

Safeguarding the tree from heat sources like radiators or fireplaces is important to avoid accelerated drying. Once the holiday festivities are over, recycling the real tree through community programs or chipping services is an eco-friendly option.

Storing Your Tree

Once the holiday season is over, it’s time to start thinking about storing your tree until next year. Here are a few tips and simple steps to help you keep your tree in good condition:

Remove all ornaments and decorations: Before storing your tree, be sure to remove all ornaments, lights, and other decorations. This will help prevent damage and make it easier to store.
Disassemble your tree: If your tree can be disassembled, take it apart and store each section separately. This will make it easier to transport and store.
Use a tree bag or box: To protect your tree from dust and debris, consider using a tree bag or box. This will help keep your tree clean and in good condition until next year.
Label your storage container: To make it easier to find your tree next year, make sure to label your storage container with the date and any other relevant information (e.g. “candy-themed tree”). This will help you quickly identify your tree when it’s time to set it up again.

FAQs

What are some ideas for a candy-themed Christmas tree?

If you’re planning to decorate a candy-themed Christmas tree, there are plenty of ideas to consider. You can use different types of candy as ornaments, such as candy canes, lollipops, and gumdrops. You can also add garlands made from candy, like popcorn strings or candy necklaces. Another idea is to use candy boxes or wrappers to create a unique look. Consider using candy-themed lights or ribbons to complete the look.

What are some unique candy ornaments to add to a Christmas tree?

There are many unique candy ornaments that you can add to a candy-themed Christmas tree. Some ideas include peppermint candies, candy canes, gumdrops, chocolate kisses, and miniature candy bars. You can also make your own ornaments by using candy molds or creating your own candy shapes.

How can I make a small candy-themed Christmas tree?

If you want to make a small candy-themed Christmas tree, you can use a tabletop tree or a small artificial tree. You can decorate it with small candy ornaments, like mini candy canes or gumdrops. You can also use candy boxes or wrappers to create a unique look. Consider using a candy-themed tree skirt or a table runner to complete the look.

What are some DIY candy-themed Christmas tree gift ideas?

If you’re looking for DIY candy-themed Christmas tree gift ideas, consider making your own candy ornaments or garlands. You can also create candy-themed gift baskets, filled with candy and other sweet treats. Another idea is to make your own candy-themed tree topper, using candy canes or other candy pieces.

What are some tips for decorating a candy-themed Christmas tree?

When decorating a candy-themed Christmas tree, it’s important to consider the color scheme. Stick with a red and white color palette, or choose other candy-inspired colors like green, pink, or purple. Use a variety of candy types and sizes to create interest and texture. Consider using a candy-themed tree skirt or a table runner to complete the look.

What are some candy-themed alternatives to a traditional Christmas tree?

If you want a candy-themed alternative to a traditional Christmas tree, consider using a candy cane tree or a gingerbread house. You can also create a candy-themed wreath or garland to hang on your wall or mantel. Another idea is to create a candy-themed centerpiece for your holiday table.

Bottom Line!

As I mentioned throughout the article, to create a candy-themed tree or candy cane look, start by selecting either a white tree or a flocked tree! Then, add in your candy cane elements, like pastel colors, candy ornaments, and ball garland.

Another fun way to create a candy cane look is to use a fishing line to hang lollipop ornaments from the branches of your tree. This creates the illusion of candy hanging from the tree and adds a fun touch to your candy-themed Christmas tree.

To top off your tree, consider a candy-themed tree topper like a giant lollipop or a top hat. And don’t forget to add some fun sweet treats like candy canes and gingerbread men to the branches for a little extra holiday cheer.

I hope this post was helpful if you are planning to decorate a colorful candy-themed tree (or candy cane Christmas tree), or any other colorful and festive decorations on your tree! Have fun decorating! Merry Christmas and happy holidays my friends!

Love,

Sherry XOXO