20 Christmas Bell Ideas
The sound of Christmas bells instantly pulls us into the holiday spirit.
Whether it’s the jingling of sleigh bells, church towers ringing on Christmas Eve, or little decorative bells hanging from the tree, they bring an unmistakable warmth to the season.
Bells have been part of holiday traditions for centuries, symbolizing joy, celebration, and the arrival of good news.
1. Classic Gold Hanging Bells
Nothing screams Christmas elegance more than gold bells dangling from a tree branch or door wreath. The shimmer of gold catches the light beautifully, especially when paired with fairy lights. You can find them in bulk at craft stores, and they instantly elevate your décor.
Growing up, I remember my grandmother hanging golden bells on every doorknob in the house—so every time someone entered a room, the sound followed like a cheerful chime of good luck.
2. Silver Sleigh Bells for Doorways
Silver bells aren’t just lyrics from a famous carol; they’re also a timeless decoration. Hanging sleigh bells on a ribbon by the front door adds both style and sound.
Every time someone opens the door, you’ll hear that familiar festive jingle. Did you know that sleigh bells were historically used by travelers in snowy areas to signal their approach? They were both practical and festive, making them a classic addition to holiday décor.
3. Jingle Bell Garlands
If you want something versatile, jingle bell garlands are a perfect DIY project. Thread colorful or metallic bells onto twine or ribbon and drape them across your mantel, staircase railing, or Christmas tree. This craft is kid-friendly too.
I once made a red-and-silver jingle bell garland with my cousins, and the laughter that came with accidentally dropping bells everywhere still echoes in my memory each year.
4. Christmas Bell Wreaths
A wreath feels incomplete without bells. Adding a few small golden or silver bells to a wreath gives it a touch of sound and sparkle.
Imagine a wreath decorated with pinecones, berries, and three little bells tied with a red ribbon—it becomes both visually striking and symbolically festive. According to holiday traditions, bells on wreaths are believed to ward off negative energy and welcome good fortune.
5. Oversized Outdoor Bells
Want to impress your neighbors? Go big with oversized bells for your porch or yard. Large bells made from wood, metal, or even plastic can be spray-painted gold or silver and hung from outdoor beams.
They make excellent statement pieces, especially when lit with spotlights at night. Think of them as the Christmas equivalent of fireworks—big, bold, and impossible to ignore.
6. Rustic Wooden Bells
If your style leans towards farmhouse chic, wooden bells are a wonderful choice. They add a natural, earthy vibe that pairs well with burlap ribbons and pine greenery.
Rustic bells also fit perfectly into a neutral Christmas color scheme of whites, creams, and browns. I once saw a set of hand-carved wooden bells at a holiday market, and they were so unique that people lined up to grab them.
7. Miniature Bell Ornaments
For those who love small details, mini bell ornaments are a must. They can be bought in packs and used for tree decoration, gift wrapping, or even strung onto napkin holders at Christmas dinner.
The small size makes them versatile. Plus, there’s something magical about a tree covered in dozens of tiny bells that catch both light and sound.
8. Personalized Engraved Bells
Looking for a thoughtful gift? Engraved bells with names, dates, or special messages are perfect keepsakes. They can be ordered online or from local engravers.
A personalized bell makes an excellent family heirloom. One of my closest friends gave me a silver bell engraved with my name years ago, and every Christmas, I hang it front and center—it’s become my personal holiday ritual.
9. Hand-Painted Ceramic Bells
If you’re artistic, consider painting ceramic bells with Christmas motifs like snowflakes, holly leaves, or reindeer. Handmade decorations carry a charm that store-bought ones can’t match.
These also make great craft projects for kids. A set of painted bells hung on the tree gives a personal touch to your holiday décor, and they can even double as gifts for relatives.
10. Bell Centerpieces for the Table
Christmas dinner tables deserve more than just candles. A bell-themed centerpiece with a mix of greenery, candles, and small bells scattered around creates a stunning effect.
You can fill a glass vase with bells, pinecones, and fairy lights for a glowing centerpiece that costs little but looks luxurious. When guests sit down, the table will feel alive with festive charm.
11. DIY Felt Bell Crafts
If you want a cozy, handmade vibe, try crafting felt bells. Cut out bell shapes from red, green, or white felt, stitch them together, and stuff them lightly for volume.
They’re soft, safe for kids, and can be decorated with beads or sequins. Felt bells can be hung on the tree or strung into a garland. My niece once gifted me a handmade felt bell, and honestly, I treasure it more than any store-bought ornament.
12. Glass Bell Jars with Fairy Lights
Take the idea of bells to another level by using bell-shaped glass jars. Fill them with fairy lights, ornaments, or pine greenery, and place them on mantels or side tables.
They create a warm, glowing effect that feels magical. Think of it as capturing Christmas spirit inside a bell-shaped lantern.
13. Church Bell-Inspired Décor
For a traditional approach, opt for church-style bells. Mini replicas can be found in home décor stores and used to symbolize the religious side of Christmas.
Pair them with candles and nativity scenes for a meaningful setup. These bells remind us of midnight services and the deep, echoing sound that often marks the start of Christmas Day.
14. Candy Cane Bell Crafts
Combine two classic symbols—candy canes and bells—into one craft. Tie a small jingle bell to the curved end of a candy cane with ribbon.
These make fun stocking stuffers or tree decorations. They’re also perfect for school or office gift exchanges because they’re inexpensive yet festive.
15. Musical Bell Displays
Christmas bells aren’t just decorative—they’re musical. Set up a display of tuned handbells for kids or guests to play with.
Handbell choirs are popular during the season because their clear tones capture the spirit of Christmas. A small set of handbells at home can double as entertainment when family gathers around.
16. Outdoor Wind Chime Bells
Swap your regular wind chimes for Christmas-themed bell chimes. Hang them near your porch or garden, and let the winter breeze carry their sound.
Every time the wind rings them, it feels like a little whisper of Christmas magic. You can buy ready-made chimes or create your own using jingle bells and twine.
17. Vintage Brass Bells
For those who love collecting antiques, brass bells are a must-have. They bring a sense of nostalgia and history to Christmas décor.
Whether polished to shine or left with a natural patina, they carry a timeless beauty. I once stumbled upon a box of old brass bells at a flea market, and they instantly became my favorite holiday pieces.
18. Bell-Shaped Cookie Cutters
Who says bells have to stay as decorations? Use bell-shaped cookie cutters to bake festive treats.
Decorate them with icing in gold, silver, or red. These cookies not only look great on dessert trays but also double as edible gifts. Nothing gets eaten faster at a party than cookies shaped like familiar Christmas symbols.
19. Giant Inflatable Christmas Bells
If you’re going all out, try inflatable bells for your yard. These oversized decorations grab attention and add a whimsical vibe.
Pair them with inflatable Santas or reindeer for a full holiday scene. They may not jingle, but they definitely make a statement.
20. Christmas Bell Gift Toppers
Instead of plain bows, top your wrapped gifts with mini jingle bells tied with ribbon. This small detail makes presents look more festive and gives the recipient a pleasant surprise.
Imagine the joy of shaking a gift and hearing a tiny jingle—it builds anticipation before the paper even comes off.
Conclusion
Christmas bells are more than just decorations; they’re symbols of joy, nostalgia, and tradition.
From classic gold and silver bells to modern DIY crafts, they can be used in endless creative ways—on trees, gifts, tables, or even as music.
The beauty of bells lies in their versatility: they’re elegant enough for sophisticated décor but simple enough for playful family projects.
