From Pumpkins to Pinecones: How to Transition Your Décor from Halloween to Thanksgiving

Simple swaps to keep your home festive without a full re-do

Halloween is over, but your home doesn’t need to lose its seasonal charm! As Anchorage shifts from spooky season to cozy season, it’s the perfect time to refresh your décor for Thanksgiving without completely starting from scratch. By reusing key pieces and adding a few natural, autumn-inspired touches, you can keep your home warm, welcoming, and stylish through the rest of fall.

Here are simple, affordable ways to make the transition—no storage bin overhaul required.

1. Keep the Pumpkins (Just Ditch the Spooky Faces)

You don’t have to toss all those pumpkins! If you used real or faux pumpkins for Halloween, simply remove any carved or spooky elements. Plain pumpkins, especially in neutral or muted tones like cream, sage, or soft orange, fit perfectly with Thanksgiving décor.
Group them with pinecones, candles, or dried leaves for a rustic table centerpiece or entryway display that feels autumnal and elegant.

 2. Swap Out Black and Orange for Warm, Earthy Tones

Halloween is all about contrast—bold blacks, bright oranges, and metallic accents. Thanksgiving, on the other hand, embraces warmth. Replace any black décor with rich browns, deep greens, and golds.
Throw a plaid or knit blanket over your couch in shades of rust or mustard, and switch out any bright orange accents for something softer and cozier. You’ll instantly transform your space into an inviting fall retreat.

 3. Add Natural Textures and Soft Lighting

The easiest way to make your home feel like fall in Alaska? Texture and glow. Incorporate woven baskets, wooden trays, and linen table runners to add depth. Then, layer in candles—especially unscented or softly spiced ones—to create that warm, welcoming light during our longer evenings.
Battery-operated candles or fairy lights are great for safety and ambiance, especially if you’re hosting guests.

 4. Decorate With Nature’s Free Finds

Anchorage is full of inspiration right outside your door. Gather pinecones, birch branches, or dried grasses for centerpieces or mantel arrangements. You can spray-paint pinecones gold or bronze for a subtle, festive sparkle that carries through the holidays.
These natural elements pair beautifully with pumpkins and gourds you already have—no need to buy expensive décor.

 5. Create a Thankful Touch

As you move toward Thanksgiving, add something meaningful: a “Gratitude Board” or simple framed sign where family members can write what they’re thankful for. This small addition brings heart to your home while complementing your seasonal style.

Cozy, Not Costly

The beauty of fall décor is that it doesn’t need to be complicated or costly. With a few thoughtful swaps—pumpkins to pinecones, orange to amber, spooky to cozy—you can celebrate Thanksgiving in style and set the stage for the holiday season ahead.

From my home to yours, wishing you a warm and welcoming November!

— Vanna Siackhasone, Realtor® | Vanna & Co.
📞 907-720-4663 | 🌐 www.vannaandco.com