As the holiday season approaches, many of us want to bring a touch of magic and festive spirit into our homes and outdoor spaces. Gardens, yards, and outdoor areas can become a true winter wonderland with a few carefully chosen decorations and elements. This December, we spoke with Mirna Bačić, creative director and founder of the landscape design company Elista, who shared some useful tips for creating a magical atmosphere in your garden during the holidays. From lighting that creates fairytale scenes to advice on winter activities and games, Mirna offers inspiration for festive outdoor decoration.
- What are the most popular holiday decorations for the garden that create a magical atmosphere?
Definitely lights! Delicate lights in neutral or warm tones can transform any yard into a fairytale garden. Since winter days are short, the evening glow of lights stands out especially well. If you have a willow or tree with hanging branches, put lights on them to create striking focal points. Additionally, you can get velvet ribbons and make bows to tie on the branches of trees or shrubs in your garden.
- What are the best plants for festive yard decoration?
Plants that bring red berries in winter are always a great choice. Holly (Ilex), Nandina domestica (heavenly bamboo), and dogwoods (Cornus) with their red branches perfectly match the festive atmosphere. I recommend Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ and Cornus sanguinea, which look especially impressive when it snows — the red branches really pop against the white background.
- What advice do you have for outdoor lighting—installing lights on trees, shrubs, and fences?
If you’re not a fan of classic Christmas lights, consider placing outdoor lamps shaped like balls of different sizes. You can arrange these lamps in various spots in the garden and use them all year round, creating an attractive ambiance in every season.
- What are the essential elements in the garden for winter gatherings?
Outdoor heaters are always welcome for winter gatherings outside. They can be bought or rented for specific events. Besides that, blankets are perfect for outdoor seating areas when guests arrive. However, the favorite element of winter garden gatherings is the fire pit. Fire not only creates a cozy atmosphere but also brings people together, and kids will have fun roasting marshmallows on sticks.
- How to adapt the yard for the little ones during the holidays?
You can organize various garden games with children, like a candy cane hunt hidden around the yard. You can also build a pyramid from paper cups that kids can knock down by throwing snowballs or foam balls if there’s no snow. Kids can also decorate a chosen shrub in the garden with ornaments they made themselves.
- What final recommendations would you give our readers to make their garden a place of true holiday joy and gathering?
For a real festive mood, the most important are good company, cozy lighting, a warm place to gather, hot drinks, and, of course, holiday music. When all these elements come together, your garden becomes the perfect space for enjoying and celebrating the holidays with family and friends.
