When To Decorate for Fall

Seasonal decor helps you get into the spirit of that time of year and creates an atmosphere to match the weather outside. Adding warm colors, cozy accessories and starting up on that DIY fall leaves home decor is the perfect fit for fall.

But when should you hang the autumn wreaths and light the apple-cinnamon candles? And how long should your fall decor remain before it makes way for winter stylings?

There’s no definitive date for when to decorate for fall. But these expert-approved tips will help you decide when to swap out your summer stuff and embrace fall’s finery.

When To Start Planning Fall Decor?

You’re not limited to the month or two before fall arrives to plan the decor for the season.

Heather Knight-Willcock, an interior designer and decors expert for ShopGoodwill.com, says she likes to gather inspiration year-round for her seasonal decor. “I save anything that sparks my attention to Pinterest and try to make a mental note if it’s something I’ve seen that’s not online,” she says.

However, if you’re looking for those fall-specific accessories (like fall centerpiece) and not just decor featuring classic orange, red, yellow, and brown fall tones, keep an eye out for when they arrive in stores.

“Usually fall is starting to come into stores in August,” Knight-Willcock says. “This is a nice time to snag some of your favorite decor items rather than waiting until they are far too picked over, when the weather is reminding everyone else the time for change has come.”

You don’t need a big time or cash investment when planning for fall decor.

“I like to direct most of my budget to my front porch, where I make the most grand gesture to the season,” Knight-Willcock says. “Other than that, I may simply switch out what style of flowers I’m buying for inside my house, and a few decorative pillows and inviting throw blankets go far to change the seasonal vibe for the interior.”

And to keep your kids busy, invite them to work on some easy fall crafting projects.

When To Decorate for Fall?

These considerations can guide you on when to switch your seasonal stylings.

Watch the weather

Knight-Willcock likes to let the seasons dictate when to start decorating for fall. “When the weather just starts to turn is when I begin to consider changing out my door mat, wreath and any porch planters for more seasonally appropriate fall flowers and plants,” she says.

As the temperatures drop and the fall foliage arrives, Knight-Willcock says it’s the perfect time to mirror those tonal changes in your decor. “Think richer tones, deeper hues and more comforting textures,” she says.

Let the big fall events guide you

You can’t go wrong with opting for the first official day of the season to introduce those fall accents. The autumnal equinox is usually on September 22 or 23.

However, it’s OK to go a little earlier, especially if you live in a chillier region, or want something for your children to enjoy when they’re returning to school. Labor Day marks the unofficial end to summer, and hanging your fall wreath then shouldn’t raise any eyebrows.

Of course, you might add extra accessories for Halloween or Thanksgiving. But it’s fitting to introduce an overall fall feel before these holidays arrive.

Follow neighborhood trends

Still not sure when to start displaying pumpkins? Why not wait until you see your neighbors decorating their porches for fall? It’s a nice way to create a cohesive community vibe, and you won’t be the talk of the street for always being too quick.

When Should the Fall Decor Come Down?

There are no rules for this, either. The winter solstice is typically December 20 or 21, but you should think about replacing hay bales and skeletons with snowmen and pine wreaths before then.

Knight-Willcock tries to keep her fall decor choices subtle enough that she can slowly integrate winter decor until after Thanksgiving. That’s when it’s full-blown Christmas season for her. “I will remove the traditional autumnal decor, like pumpkins and leaves, and replace those with snowflakes and pine trees,” she says.

Some people put up their Christmas tree and lights right after Thanksgiving. However, if it’s a real tree, waiting a week or two ensures the tree won’t dry out by Christmas Day.