Fall decorating is all about adding autumnal touches to your home – and nothing says fall more than pumpkins and gourds on display. With their shapes and vibrant colors bringing life to every corner, pumpkins are one of the simplest and most charming way to decorate for fall. In this guide, we share how PUMPKIN DÉCOR can create a cozy atmosphere for any space — from your porch to the living room and dining table.

Why Are Pumpkins Related To Fall?

Entrance decorated with fall foliage, artificial pumpkins, and candles in lanterns

FEATURED: RUSTIC HEIRLOOM PUMPKINS | FALL LANTERN WITH LED CANDLES

Pumpkins are harvested in autumn and most abundant at this time of year, along with winter squash varieties like acorn and butternut. They became a staple during Halloween in the 19th century when Irish immigrants brought with them the tradition of using pumpkins to scare evil spirits away. Soon after, many households also adapted this practice every October 31st.

How To Decorate With Pumpkins

Pumpkins are versatile pieces that you can use throughout fall, including Halloween and Thanksgiving. Display them in key areas such as the porch, living room, dining room, and patio to spruce up the space. Here are some of the best ways to use pumpkins as decorations.

1. WELCOME FALL

Black front door decorated with fall harvest foliage and artificial pumpkins

FEATURED: COUNTRY FIELDS FOLIAGE | OUTDOOR HEIRLOOM PUMPKINS

Dress up your porch with pumpkins and foliage in rich fall colors. Drape a FALL GARLAND over the entryway and hang a pumpkin wreath on the front door. Group together gourds in different colors and place them on both sides of the door with a welcome mat in the middle. Add lanterns and candles in various sizes to complete the display.

2. LIGHT THE WAY

Jack-o’lantern pathway lights and pre-lit artificial maple trees

FEATURED: SOLAR HALLOWEEN PATHWAY LIGHTS | OUTDOOR LIT AUTUMN MAPLE TREE

When it’s closer to HALLOWEEN, line up your pathways with lit Jack-o'-lanterns to guide guests or visiting trick-or-treaters. You can also use these for your patio or backyard along with string lights to illuminate outdoor gatherings. Spruce up the rest of your al fresco areas with OUTDOOR-SAFE DECORATIONS to make sure they're protected from sun and weather damage.

3. SET THE SCENE

White mantel decorated with a gilded mirror, fall foliage, and white pumpkins

FEATURED: BRIARWOOD COTTAGE FOLIAGE | FAUX WOOD PUMPKINS

Crisp fall nights call for evenings by the fireplace. Make the living room extra cozy when entertaining friends and family by sprucing up your mantel. White pumpkin décor adds elegance to the space and pairs well with colorful foliage. Add some books and candles to create a stylish vignette, then complete the relaxing atmosphere with nostalgic FALL SCENTS.

4. GIVE THANKS

Dining table and place setting decorated with lit glass pumpkins, pinecones, and mixed fall leaves

FEATURED: GLOWING GLASS PUMPKINS

Style an impressive THANKSGIVING table with glass pumpkins and other fall accents. Instead of a runner, use a garland that runs the length of your table, then fill the gaps with mini pumpkins, pinecones, and figs. Use metallic votive holders for your candles to add a soft glow to your tablescape and complement the shimmer from the glass pumpkins.

We hope this guide inspired you to decorate with pumpkins this fall season. For more entertaining and styling ideas, sign up for our NEWSLETTER and browse our collection of fall décor at the Balsam Hill website.

SHOP FALL DÉCOR

BE INSPIRED

Update your home décor for the new season with these fall decorating guides:

UPDATING YOUR SEASONAL DECORATIONS? HOW TO TRANSITION FROM ONE SEASON TO THE NEXT

THANKSGIVING DÉCOR TO CREATE AN INTIMATE AND COZY CELEBRATION

THE BEST PUMPKIN CARVING & DECORATING IDEAS