With the holiday season approaching, transforming your pool area into a festive oasis is a wonderful way to bring the magic of the season outdoors. While most people focus on decorating their living rooms, kitchens, and front yards, don’t overlook the potential of your backyard pool area. It’s the perfect spot for holiday gatherings, adding ambiance and joy with a few creative and strategic decorating ideas. Here are some tips on how to turn your poolside into a seasonal showstopper.
Choose a Holiday Theme
Before you start decorating, decide on a holiday theme. Having a cohesive style will make your pool area look polished and intentional. Here are some popular themes to consider:
- Traditional Winter Wonderland: Incorporate classic red, green, and white colors, with cozy accents like plaid blankets and string lights.
- Tropical Holiday: For warmer climates, consider a tropical holiday theme with bright colors, palm leaves, and flamingos wearing Santa hats.
- Glamorous Gold & Silver: Opt for metallic accents, elegant lanterns, and glittery ornaments for a touch of luxury by the pool.
- Rustic Lodge: If you love a more natural look, choose wood accents, burlap, and earthy tones that mimic a cozy cabin feel.
Illuminate with Twinkling Lights
Holiday lights bring warmth and sparkle to any space, and your pool area is no exception. Use outdoor-rated LED string lights in creative ways:
- Drape lights over trees and shrubs around the pool, or string them along the perimeter of fences.
- Frame your pool with lights for a cozy glow, or use waterproof floating LED lights to make your pool water shimmer.
- Light up a pathway from the house to the pool area using lanterns, candles, or battery-operated luminaries. This adds elegance and safety for any guests who venture outside.
- Fire features add elegance and mystery to your pool area while offering extra light and warmth during the winter season.
Add Seasonal Greenery
Adding greenery brings a natural touch and holiday spirit to your outdoor space. You can use evergreen garlands, wreaths, and potted plants to decorate various areas around the pool.
- Garlands and Wreaths: Wrap garlands around railings, fences, and pergolas, and hang wreaths on nearby walls or doors.
- Potted Plants: Incorporate poinsettias, mini evergreen trees, and rosemary shrubs in festive planters. Potted plants can be arranged around seating areas or along pathways.
Create a Cozy Seating Area
Holiday gatherings are all about spending quality time together, so create a comfortable seating area by the pool where guests can gather. Arrange outdoor seating in a semi-circle to foster conversation, and add plenty of cozy items:
- Outdoor Rugs and Cushions: Select holiday-themed pillows and throws in seasonal colors or patterns.
- Portable Heaters and Fire Pits: If it’s chilly outside, portable heaters or a small fire pit can keep everyone comfortable while adding ambiance.
- Warm Blankets: Keep a basket with blankets nearby so guests can easily grab one to stay warm.
Set Up a Holiday Snack Station
No holiday gathering is complete without refreshments. Set up a small snack or beverage station by the pool to add a special touch to your decorations.
- Hot Cocoa Station: Create a hot cocoa bar with mugs, marshmallows, candy canes, and whipped cream. If your climate is warm, consider offering holiday-themed iced drinks or cocktails instead.
- Seasonal Treats: Offer classic holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, candy canes, or popcorn in decorative bowls. You can even use small holiday-themed baskets or trays for an extra festive feel.
- Table Decor: Dress up the snack station with holiday-themed tablecloths, a mini Christmas tree, or small LED candles.
Include Sound and Scent for a Full Holiday Experience
Adding holiday sounds and scents around the pool can enhance the festive atmosphere and make the space even more enjoyable.
- Seasonal Music: Play a mix of classic holiday songs through an outdoor speaker system. You could even create a playlist for any holiday-themed pool party.
- Holiday Scents: Use outdoor-safe candles or essential oil diffusers with scents like pine, cinnamon, and peppermint to evoke holiday memories. For safety, consider using flameless candles or fragrance diffusers to avoid any fire hazards near poolside decor.
Consider a Poolside Christmas Tree
If you’re aiming for a more extravagant look, why not have a holiday tree by the pool?
- Outdoor Christmas Tree: Decorate an artificial tree with weatherproof ornaments and place it poolside as a focal point for your holiday decorations.
- Miniature Trees: For a subtler approach, place a few small, decorated trees in pots around the seating area.
Do You Have More Questions About Swimming Pools? Ask Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC
If you still have questions about how to build a brand new swimming pool, Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC is here to help you. At Sunrise Pools, we can build and install your pool, spa, or hot tub and provide you with pool chemicals, services, and more. If you have questions, feel free to give us a call at 410-349-3852. To see more from us and for tips and tricks, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.