10 Christmas Ideas for Above Kitchen Cabinets: Festive Ways I’ve Used to Dress Up That Forgotten Space Over Cabinets

Last year, a client asked me, “Can we put a full Christmas village on top of the cabinets?” My first reaction was a nervous laugh, but then I realized—it’s actually a brilliant use of vertical space. Small kitchens especially can feel left out of the fun, but decorating above cabinets turns dead space into pure holiday magic. In my 10+ years of designing, I’ve learned that small or awkward spots often become the most memorable design moments. Today I’m sharing 10 ideas I’ve used (and tested) to spruce up that overlooked ledge for Christmas.

1. Twinkling Garland with LED Lights

I love draping faux pine garlands up there, weaving in warm LED fairy lights. It adds instant magic, but just remember to use battery-operated lights for safety. I often check the space in a room planner to visualize balance before climbing up with a ladder.

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2. Mini Wreath Gallery

Hanging small wreaths along the cabinet tops feels quaint and unexpected. I sometimes add ribbon tails that lightly dangle for extra texture. Downside? Dust—so I keep a feather duster handy.

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3. Christmas Village Display

A classic! Arrange a little ceramic town with faux snow. Elevation adds visibility, but make sure each piece is secure; nothing dampens Christmas cheer like a falling snowman.

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4. Oversized Ornaments

When storage is a problem, I use oversize shatterproof ornaments. They read bold from across the room and are easy to pop into storage bins come January.

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5. Wrapped Gift Boxes

Empty boxes wrapped in luxe paper create a visual pop; mix sizes for interest. It's budget-friendly and you can color-coordinate to your kitchen palette.

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6. Festive Baskets

Fill woven baskets with pinecones, baubles, or greenery swags. Practical trick: the baskets can store off-season kitchen gadgets the rest of the year, so you’re getting beauty and function in one.

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7. Santa’s Sleigh Scene

I once staged a sleigh and reindeer silhouetted in twinkle lights—it became the party photo spot. Planning these dimensions in a free floor plan creator helps ensure everything fits up top without looking cramped.

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8. Framed Holiday Prints

Stand a series of small framed holiday art prints or vintage cards along the cabinet top. Lightweight frames avoid tipovers, but use museum putty for extra security.

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9. Nutcracker Parade

Line up tall nutcrackers for a whimsical army across the kitchen. It’s fun, but beware—once you start collecting them, it’s hard to stop!

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10. Winter Wonderland Greenery

Layer different snowy faux greens, from cedar to eucalyptus, for a lush textural look. I sometimes sketch arrangements in a kitchen layout planner to balance fullness and avoid blocking cabinet doors.

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FAQ

1. How do I safely decorate above kitchen cabinets for Christmas?

Use lightweight, non-flammable decor, secure items with museum putty, and opt for battery-operated lights to avoid electrical hazards.

2. What is the best lighting for above-cabinet Christmas displays?

Warm white LED fairy lights create a cozy glow without producing heat, making them perfect for long-term holiday use.

3. Can I decorate my rental kitchen cabinets?

Yes! Use damage-free hooks, command strips, or items that simply rest on top for an easy, removable setup.

4. How do I keep decorations from getting dusty?

Choose decor with smooth surfaces that can be easily wiped down and give them a quick dusting every couple of weeks.

5. What if my cabinets go all the way to the ceiling?

Consider using front-facing garland, small wreaths on cabinet doors, or under-cabinet seasonal lighting instead.

6. How far in advance should I decorate?

Most people start right after Thanksgiving, but there’s no rule—it’s your home, so decorate when you feel festive!

7. How do I plan my above-cabinet layout?

Sketch it out or use an online design tool; even a free floor planner can help you visualize spacing and proportion before you decorate.

8. Where can I find inspiration for above-cabinet decor?

Browse Pinterest boards, holiday home tours, or interior design blogs for creative arrangements—and adapt ideas to your own style.