Celebrate a Tropical Christmas with a Tropical Tree

The traditional, evergreen Christmas tree is an iconic Christmas symbol. There are songs written, movies made, and a proliferation of Christmas decorations cementing the full, triangular-shaped fir tree as the Christmas ideal. But, the traditional Christmas tree isn’t in everyone’s living room. The closer to the equator, the less fir trees there are, and the harder they are to get. But, a tropical tree is a great alternative for those who live with a snow-less climate, those who are looking for something different, or for those who travel to a balmy destination for Christmas. Here are a few great alternatives for a tropical Christmas (whether there’s snow on the ground or not!). 

Christmas Palm Tree

Christmas in the tropics might feel a little toasty for a traditional evergreen Christmas tree. Plus, getting a traditional tree in a tropical locale can be extra pricey. Go with what’s there and transform a common palm into the Christmas centerpiece. A smaller, potted palm tree looks great year round, but might need to look extra special during the Christmas season. White or colored lights can be wrapped, draped and wound around the stump and palm fronds for a festive look. Depending on the branches, small Christmas ornaments can still dangle from the boughs, or attach to the stump. If there’s not enough space for a permanent potted palm, many home-improvement stores have tropical options at Christmas. Finding a faux, pre-lit tropical tree online is another convenient place to look. 

Tropical Ornaments

Maybe a traditional Christmas tree is your jam no matter what, and a palm tree won’t suffice. But, if you have an affinity for all things tropical, why not just fill your tree with tropical-themed ornaments? Old World Christmas has a huge collection of beautiful tropical ornaments. We think the Christmas palm tree ornament is the quintessential tropical Christmas ornament, but it’s hard to pick between the palm tree or the always-popular surfer Santa ornament, as well as the flamingo, the mermaid and the pufferfish ornaments. We have a whole selection of seashore and beach ornaments that cannot be missed. In addition to tropical ornaments, other warm-weather items like bunting flags, beach balls, shells, faux starfish, and faux tropical flowers can be tucked into the tree for added color. 

Brighter Alternatives

To really spice up the tropical theme, a fake Christmas tree in a vibrant color can really make the tropical theme pop. A pink, blue, or white tree creates the perfect backdrop for tropical fish, flamingos and bright lights. Customize a faux white tree with a can of spray paint to get your perfect hued Christmas tree. With a tropical tree think outside the star topper. Maybe a plastic flamingo, conch shell or paper pineapple would add the perfect finishing touch to the top of the tree. Though not specifically tropical, but perfect to brighten the tree check out our collection of retro christmas ornaments reflectors to add color, sparkle and colorful mid-century modern flair to the tree.

Obviously, we love Christmas trees. We love a traditional evergreen tree loaded with beautiful ornaments just as much as we love variation. A pink tree loaded with colorful ornaments or a palm tree with lights exudes the Christmas spirit and has plenty of space for gifts. This year consider a tropical Christmas tree whether you celebrate at the beach or in the snow. 

Back to blog

Written by

Rachael Mitchell

Rachael Mitchell is a freelance writer based in Seattle, Washington, and has over 15 years of writing experience. She’d never be able to pick just one favorite ornament, but narrowed it down to the S’more and Tennis Ball. She always looks forward to s’mores in the summer with friends and family adding gourmet ingredients, and played 4 years of college tennis in the mid-west.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.