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If you've always admired homes with festive evergreen wreaths in every window, let this be the year you create that timeless holiday look for your own space. Hanging Christmas wreaths on windows—especially second-story windows—can be a bit of a project, but the visual payoff is absolutely worth it.
Before you begin, consider the type of windows you have and what mounting options are safest for your window frames. For example, vinyl-clad windows shouldn’t be punctured with nails or tacks, while wooden frames may be more forgiving. Additionally, remove any screens before installing wreaths for the best results.
Let’s walk through the best ways to hang wreaths on windows, step-by-step.
Best for: smooth glass windows, renters, damage-free holiday decorating
Adhesive hooks like Command™ Hooks are one of the most popular and damage-free ways to hang window wreaths. If you’re hanging your wreath on an outside window, make sure to choose hooks rated for outdoor use and for glass surfaces. Opt for the largest size that can support up to 4 lbs.
Oils from pollution or car emissions can cause adhesives to fail. Wash the window thoroughly, then wipe the area with rubbing alcohol to remove oils and residue.
Determine whether the wreath will be hung directly on the hook or suspended by ribbon or wire. Some wreaths are too thick to sit flat on the hook.
For consistent placement across all windows, create a placement jig from cardboard. Fit it to a window corner and mark where the top/bottom of the hook should go. This eliminates the need to measure each window individually.
Peel off the back liner (often printed with stripes or marked “window”), avoiding contact with the adhesive.
Press the adhesive strip firmly onto the glass for 30 seconds, making sure the removal tab is at the bottom.
Next, remove the liner from the hook piece, press it into position, and hold it for another 30 seconds.
Wait one hour before hanging your wreath to ensure a strong bond.
Pro Tip: Use clear hooks if you want to leave them up year-round—they’ll be barely noticeable and save time next season.
Best for: double-hung windows, hanging window wreaths without tools
This method is perfect for hanging window wreaths from inside the house—ideal for those who don’t want to climb ladders.
Use a weather-resistant ribbon, about 2.5 inches wide and 4–5 feet long (adjust for your window height and desired wreath position).
Slide one end of the ribbon through the wreath’s center, bring it up, and tie the ends together.
Lower the top sash of your window just enough to slide the wreath out while holding onto the ribbon ends.
Close the window and secure the ribbon inside using a small tack or nail into the upper window frame.
Alternatively, tie a large knot in the ribbon to prevent it from slipping through the window when closed—no tack required.
Pro Tip: For a minimalist look, substitute ribbon with clear fishing line and secure it discreetly inside.
Best for: single-pane glass or metallic surfaces
Magnetic hooks are an excellent solution for hanging wreaths on windows without any adhesive, holes, or tools. These hooks come in pairs—one for inside and one for outside the window. They work best on single-pane glass. If your windows are double-paned or insulated, the glass may be too thick for the magnets to hold securely.
Decide exactly where you want your wreath to hang on the outside of the window.
Place the second magnet on the inside of the window and let them snap together.
Pro Tip: This method is easiest with two people, one inside and one out. When hanging wreaths solo, open the top sash of the window and align the magnets by reaching over the top.
Best for: lightweight wreaths, short-term use on smooth glass surfaces
Suction cup hooks are another great way to hang wreaths without causing damage to your windows. There are suction cups made specifically for wreath hanging, many come with built-in hooks and are rated for outdoor use.
First, check the weight rating on the suction cup hook and compare it with the weight of your wreath. Lightweight wreaths are ideal for this method.
Clean the window thoroughly, and if needed, wipe the area again with rubbing alcohol to ensure a clean, residue-free surface.
Suction cups often work best when the glass is slightly damp. If you're having trouble getting a strong seal, try misting the area lightly before applying the suction cup.
Press the suction cup firmly against the glass, and give it a gentle tug to test the hold.
Once the hook is secure, go ahead and hang your wreath.
Pro Tip: Periodically check your suction cup hooks if you live in an area with extreme weather fluctuations–some suction cups can lose strength in very hot or very cold temperatures.
Best for: hanging wreaths on windows from inside
Using a spring-loaded tension rod is a clever option for hanging wreaths inside the window, especially when the surrounding surface allows it to grip securely.
Place the tension rod in front of the meeting point between the upper and lower sashes so that it’s less visible from the outside.
Twist the rod to extend its length until it fits snugly between the sides of the window. The more you twist, the tighter the fit.
Once the rod is secure, attach your wreath using clear fishing line or ribbon. Adjust the length so the wreath hangs at your desired height.
If you live in a windy or snowy region, consider anchoring your wreaths at both the top and bottom using heavy-duty fishing line. Secure the bottom of the wreath to the frame or shutters to prevent it from swinging or blowing away. This extra step is especially helpful for homes with tall or multiple stories.
Once your windows are decorated, why stop there? Wreaths are incredibly versatile and can add holiday warmth to nearly every room in your house. Whether you're going for a cohesive evergreen theme or mixing in more playful elements, here are some creative and festive indoor wreath decorating ideas.
Hang a wreath centered above your mantel for a classic holiday focal point.
Or lean the wreath to one side and decorate next to it with figurines, garland, or candles for a more layered, cozy look.
Use a suction cup hook to hang a wreath directly on a decorative mirror.
The mirror will double the visual impact of the wreath and reflect holiday lights or Christmas greenery, creating a glowing, elegant effect.
Tie small wreaths to the backs of dining chairs using wide festive ribbon.
This adds a whimsical and welcoming touch to your dining space without taking up room on the table.
Pair it with a coordinating holiday centerpiece to bring everything together.
Add wreaths to your Christmas garland on stair railings or banisters.
Mix in ribbon, ornaments, or fairy lights to complete the look.
A wreath on the newel post or at the base of the stairs adds a finishing touch to your stairway display.
Hang a wreath with ribbon from your crown molding for a traditional-meets-elegant feel.
Group several small wreaths in a pattern above a sideboard, headboard, or entryway console to create a seasonal accent wall.
You can even frame a wreath in a large picture frame for a unique presentation.
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Lay a wreath flat on a coffee table, side table, or kitchen island, and place a scented candle or hurricane lantern in the center.
Place a mini tabletop Christmas tree in the center to create a small, festive focal point—perfect for apartments, guest rooms, or accent tables.
Fill the center with antique figurines, such as a Santa or snowman, to create a charming tablescape.
Nestle a blooming waxed amaryllis bulb in the center for a fresh, elegant touch. The bold blooms contrast beautifully with evergreen or berry-covered wreaths.
If you have space above your kitchen cabinets, wreaths are a great way to carry your décor upward.
Choose wreaths that are bold and simple, like those made of red berries or jingle bells, since detailed designs may get lost from a distance.
This space also works well for staging your Christmas village, snowmen, or Santa collections. Consider weaving in a strand of white lights for added charm and visibility.
Buy 3D wooden or metal letters to spell festive words like SNOW, NOEL, or JOY, and replace the “O” with a small wreath.
Hang them on the wall, across the mantel, or style them together on a shelf for a creative twist on traditional décor.
There are truly no limits to how you can use evergreen wreaths around your home during the holiday season. Whether you keep it classic or go quirky, the key is to layer textures, play with placement, and have fun with your personal style. Wreaths are one of the most versatile Christmas decorations, offering both beauty and tradition—indoors and out.
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