32 Antique Christmas Decorations To Scout at Antique Stores

If you’re on the hunt for antique Christmas decorations this season, you’re in the right place. I visited Stonehouse Antique Center in Vermont and spotted 32 charming vintage holiday finds you can actually shop for, everything from wooden horses and cast-iron tree stands to nostalgic figurines, toys, and ski lodge decor. In this post, I’m sharing each piece, what to look for when buying, styling tips, and why these timeless treasures bring so much character to Christmas decorating today.

32 Antique Christmas Decorations to Look For and Style This Season

Whether you’re wandering the aisles of your favorite antique mall or browsing a cozy Christmas market, these antique Christmas decorations are the pieces worth scouting. Every item on this list was spotted during a recent trip to Stone House Antique Center in Vermont, where I found myself stopping and smiling at all the vintage holiday charm. From cast iron tree stands to nostalgic toys and architectural salvage with festive flair, this list is part shopping guide, part styling inspiration, and full of timeless treasures you’ll want to collect and decorate with year after year.

1. Antique Wooden Horses in Christmas Decor

One of the most charming antique Christmas decorations you’ll spot this season? Wooden horses. Whether hand-carved or painted with age, they add instant nostalgia and warmth. Simply tie on a velvet ribbon or festive bow and style them on a mantel, fireplace hearth, tabletop, or even tucked under the tree. You’ll find them often in antique malls this time of year, and they make a beautiful statement in both rustic and elegant holiday homes. See the bottom right wooden horse decorated in antique Christmas decor in this post, Christmas Old Colonial Fireplace, Hearth, and Mantel.

2. Antique Christmas Tree Stands with Character

Swap out a basic base for an antique Christmas tree stand; these cast-iron beauties often feature ornate scrollwork, bold colors, and decades of patina. Whether you use one for your actual tree or display it solo with greens or a faux tree, it adds an authentic vintage layer to your holiday decorating. Pair with a classic tree skirt, or let the stand itself shine as the statement piece.

3. Antique Christmas Figurines and Ornaments

From angels and Santas to vintage cars and animals, antique Christmas figurines add playful personality to your holiday vignettes. Look for hand-painted details, soft aging, and materials like ceramic, chalkware, or early plastics. A pink VW bug ornament or a sweet nativity figure can bring a nostalgic and unexpected twist to your mantel, tabletop, or tree this season.

4. Vintage Trees as Antique Christmas Decorations

Ceramic and tabletop trees are some of the most beloved antique Christmas decorations you’ll find this time of year. These vintage Christmas trees, especially the iconic ceramic styles with colorful bulbs, show up in almost every secondhand shop around the holidays. Style one on a hutch, console, or bedside table for a cozy glow. And if you spot a rare pink version? Grab it, they’re trending in today’s vintage-inspired holiday decor.

5. Antique Christmas Decorations on Vintage Dress Forms

Vintage dress forms are a creative way to showcase antique Christmas decorations with a festive and unexpected twist. Drape them in evergreen garlands, add ornaments or ribbons, and top with a pearl necklace or brooch for a playful blend of old-world charm and modern holiday style. These statement pieces work beautifully on porches, in entryways, or anywhere you want a little wow factor.

Looking for More Ideas on Decorating with Mannequins?
If you love styling vintage dress forms and mannequins with antique Christmas decorations, don’t stop here! From witchy Halloween displays to whimsical winter styles and spring florals, I’ve gathered a few of my favorite mannequin moments to inspire your next decorating adventure.

6. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Game Boards

Antique game boards, especially old checkerboards and Parcheesi boards, make unexpectedly perfect antique Christmas decorations. Hang one on the wall as a festive backdrop, lean it on a mantel, or layer it behind your favorite holiday vignette. The bold colors and worn patina add a cozy, collected feel that blends beautifully with greenery, candles, and vintage ornaments. Learn more in my Red Decor Ideas to Decorate Any Room with Style post.

7. Antique Christmas Decorations with Architectural Salvage

Architectural salvage pieces like spindles, corbels, and trimwork make some of the most unique antique Christmas decorations you can style. Try propping a weathered column on a mantel and wrapping it in greenery, or turn chippy balusters into oversized ornaments or rustic tabletop trees. These unexpected elements bring character, texture, and creativity to your holiday decor; no two displays will ever look the same.

8. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Card Holders

One of the most surprising antique Christmas decorations I’ve come across is the vintage Christmas card holder. I always assumed these were a modern invention until I spotted this charming wire-style version nestled into a holiday display. Use them to showcase vintage postcards, family holiday cards, or old photographs for a nostalgic and meaningful touch in your decor.

9. Antique Christmas Decorations Using Ironstone

No list of antique Christmas decorations would be complete without ironstone. I especially love collecting ironstone molds this time of year; they’re perfect for serving holiday snacks like nuts, candies, or even tiny ornaments. Their clean white finish adds a timeless charm to any table, shelf, or hutch, and they mix beautifully with greenery and candlelight for an understated vintage holiday look.

10. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Animal Figurines

Tiny animal figurines dressed in red coats or holiday hats make for some of the most whimsical antique Christmas decorations you can find. Whether they’re vintage tree ornaments or small tabletop accents, these charming critters add a playful, storybook feel to your seasonal decor. Look for dogs, bears, deer, or farm animals to tuck into shelves, trays, or under the tree.

11. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Toys for Children

Vintage toys make some of the most heartwarming antique Christmas decorations, especially when styled in children’s rooms, guest bedrooms, or tucked under the tree. Think wooden pull toys, metal trucks, and old dolls; each one tells a story and adds a personal, nostalgic touch to your holiday home. They also make meaningful, display-worthy gifts that celebrate the magic of a child’s Christmas from years gone by.

12. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Ski Clothing

Add a cozy alpine vibe to your antique Christmas decorations with vintage ski sweaters, hats, mittens, and boots. These pieces bring nostalgic winter charm to entryways, porches, and even styled mannequins or hooks by the fireplace. Bonus, they’re not just for show! A festive ski sweater makes a great wearable layer for your next holiday gathering.

13. Antique Christmas Decorations with Old Paintbrushes

Old paintbrushes might not be your first thought for antique Christmas decorations, but they’re full of rustic charm, especially when bundled with twine or tucked into a festive vignette. I love finding well-worn brushes with colorful handles or drips of old paint. Try styling them in a vintage jar on a desk, shelf, or even your holiday crafting table for a creative and unexpected touch.

14. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Simplicity Patterns

Vintage Simplicity sewing patterns aren’t just for crafting; they make wonderfully creative antique Christmas decorations, too. One of my readers recently shared that she wraps small gifts in old pattern envelopes, and I just loved that idea. It reminds me of how my mother used to wrap presents in newspaper with red ribbons back in the ’70s. These aged paper patterns add charm, nostalgia, and a handmade touch to your holiday decor or gift wrap.

15. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Brush Trees

Vintage bottle brush trees are some of the most collectible and charming antique Christmas decorations around. Whether they’re cream-colored, pastel, or covered in glitter, these little trees are easy to style in just about any space, from shelves and mantels to tabletops and under glass cloches. Mix and match sizes for a whimsical forest feel, or group them with figurines for a nostalgic holiday scene.

Vintage Ski Lodge Style for Cozy Winter Decorating

I love decorating with Vintage Ski Lodge Decor throughout the winter months, especially in our Vermont and coastal Maine homes. From wooden skis and snowshoes to plaid blankets and wool mittens, these classic pieces bring alpine charm and coziness to your antique Christmas decorations. Be sure to check out my full Vintage Ski Lodge Decor series for even more ideas and inspiration!

16. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Wooden Skis

Vintage skis, whether downhill or cross-country, make bold and rustic antique Christmas decorations when styled around the holidays. Lean them against a porch, hang them over a mantel, or layer them behind a Christmas tree for that perfect ski lodge look. You can often find a good wooden pair for $50 to $100, depending on the condition. I’ve styled ours at our Vermont home in a few different ways. See more ideas in my Vintage Skis for Decoration: How to Style Old Skis Indoors & Out and How I Styled Polar Bear Christmas Decor for the Coziest Tree Ever posts!

17. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Toboggans and Sleds

Vintage sleds and toboggans are some of the most eye-catching antique Christmas decorations for outdoor styling. Whether wood or metal, they add instant nostalgic charm when leaned against a porch, styled with greenery, or layered with plaid blankets and skates. I spotted so many colorful ones in antique shops this season, including a bright red sled I styled on our porch last year. See how I decorated it in my How to Decorate a Vintage Sled, A Simple Styling Tip with New England Charm post.

18. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Snowshoes

Vintage snowshoes are one of my favorite antique Christmas decorations to use during the holidays, and well into winter. Their woven rawhide and rustic wooden frames add texture and timeless charm, whether styled indoors or out. Lean them in a corner, hang them on a wall, or tie them on a wreath for an instant ski lodge look. I’ve decorated with ours in a few different ways, see how in my Antique Snowshoes for Decoration: Seasonal Vintage Styling Ideas for Your Home post.

18. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Ice Skates

Vintage ice skates are a timeless New England favorite when it comes to antique Christmas decorations. Whether hung from a front door wreath, propped by a sled, or displayed with greens on a porch bench, they bring instant winter nostalgia. White leather skates with worn laces are especially charming.

19. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Ski Boots

Vintage ski boots are one of the most unexpected and delightful antique Christmas decorations to use in your holiday styling. Their rugged leather, worn laces, and classic charm make them perfect for porch vignettes, hearth displays, or tucked beside a sled or snowshoes. I styled a pair on our porch, and they added just the right touch of rustic winter character. See how I decorated with them in my Ski Lodge Christmas Decor, How to Style with Vintage Ski Boots post.

More Antique Christmas Decorations to Look For and Love

20. Antique Christmas Decorations with Shiny Brite Ornaments

Shiny Brite glass ornaments are among the most beloved antique Christmas decorations and are even more special when found in their original boxes. These colorful, delicate pieces bring a flood of nostalgia, reminding many of family trees from decades past. Hang them on your tree, pile them in a vintage bowl, or display them in their box for a charming holiday vignette filled with warmth and memories.

21. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Brass Bells

Vintage brass bells bring a beautiful mix of sound, sentiment, and style to your antique Christmas decorations. I’ll be decorating with my mother’s cherished bell collection this year, and I can’t wait to share it soon on the blog. Whether hung on a wreath, layered into a mantel display, or tied with ribbon on a doorknob, these bells evoke an old-world Christmas charm that’s timeless and meaningful.

22. Antique Christmas Decorations with Old Rustic Signs

Rustic holiday signs, especially those salvaged from old barns, shops, or roadside stands, make fantastic antique Christmas decorations. Whether they say “Noel,” “Sleigh Rides,” or simply feature hand-painted lettering, they add instant vintage charm to porches, mantels, or entryways. The more weathered and worn, the better.

23. Antique Christmas Decorations with Cozy Sheepskins

While not your typical ornament, sheepskins are one of my favorite cozy layers to pair with antique Christmas decorations, especially on outdoor benches, porch rockers, or even by the fireplace. The fluffier and more worn-in, the better! Drape one over a chair, toss it on the floor, or layer it under a tray of vintage finds for instant warmth and texture.

Love Decorating with Sheepskins?
If cozy textures are your thing, you’ll love these ideas for using sheepskins throughout your home. From porch benches layered in vintage charm to warm winter nooks styled with antique touches, here are a few of my favorite ways to decorate with sheepskins indoors and out.

24. Antique Christmas Decorations with Old Vine Wreaths

Old grapevine wreaths are a rustic and budget-friendly way to add charm to your antique Christmas decorations, and they’re versatile enough to use year-round. I found these beautifully tangled ones for just $6, and I love how simple and textural they are. Style them with greenery, vintage ribbon, or tuck in a few antique ornaments for a creative holiday wreath with natural flair.

25. Styling Pinecones with Antique Christmas Decorations

While pinecones aren’t antique themselves, they pair beautifully with antique Christmas decorations to bring natural texture and warmth into your holiday home. Scatter them on a vintage tray, tuck them into ironstone bowls, or add them to wreaths and garlands for a collected, woodland look. It’s an easy way to bring the outdoors in, without spending a dime. Learn more in my Pinecone Decor: 50 Easy DIY Crafts and Decorating Ideas for Every Season post.

26. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Linens

Vintage linens, especially those with red, green, or embroidered holiday motifs, make beautiful antique Christmas decorations for kitchens, bathrooms, and guest spaces. Drape them over a sink, use them as a table runner, or hang one from a vintage hook or peg rail. These soft layers add color, nostalgia, and a gentle pop of vintage cheer throughout your home.

27. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Bicycles

Antique bicycles add unexpected whimsy to your antique Christmas decorations, especially when styled outdoors. Lean one against a fence, fill the basket with greenery and ornaments, or wrap the frame in twinkle lights for a festive front porch display. Even better, they transition beautifully into garden decor once the snow melts.

28. Antique Christmas Decorations with Wooden Spools

Antique wooden spools are a simple but charming way to add texture and color to your antique Christmas decorations. I recently picked up this light blue one to complement the newly painted blue walls in our Vermont home; it felt like the perfect little seasonal touch. Style them in a bowl, line them along a shelf, or wrap them with vintage ribbon or twine for a cozy, collected look.

29. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Holiday Candles

From candy canes to choir boys, vintage Christmas candles are some of the cutest antique Christmas decorations you’ll find at secondhand shops and estate sales. Their retro shapes and bright colors add instant charm to shelves, trays, or bathroom counters, and you can usually score them at a great price. Just be careful when displaying, they’re more for show than for burning!

30. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Bugles

Antique bugles and brass horns make striking antique Christmas decorations, especially when styled as part of a fireplace or mantel display. I’ve used my mother’s bugle collection, each one a different size and shape, across our holiday hearth this year. Their classic silhouette adds a nostalgic, old-world touch to your Christmas decor. You can see them featured in my Colonial Christmas Decorations: Cozy Fireplace Touches with Modern Warmth post.

31. Antique Christmas Decorations with Wooden Trees

Old wooden trees, whether they’re clearly Christmas-themed or not, make beautiful, neutral-toned antique Christmas decorations. I love collecting them for their simplicity and sculptural shape. They work beautifully in a holiday tablescape, styled on a shelf, or layered into a mantel display. You can see how I used them in my Coastal Tablescape Styling Tip, Mixing Vintage Charm with Modern Dinnerware post.

32. Antique Christmas Decorations with Vintage Santa Figurines

No collection of antique Christmas decorations is complete without a few vintage Santas. Whether they’re chalkware, papier-mâché, ceramic, wooden, or even plastic, old-fashioned Santa figures add warmth and tradition to any holiday display. Look for hand-painted details, rosy cheeks, and soft wear that tells a story. Line them up on a mantel, tuck them into a hutch, or create a jolly vignette with a few bottle brush trees and a touch of sparkle.

Start Your Own Antique Christmas Collection

From vintage wooden horses and Shiny Brite ornaments to cozy wool blankets and whimsical bugles, decorating with antique Christmas decorations brings a sense of nostalgia, charm, and personal storytelling to the season. Whether you’re styling a single centerpiece or filling your home with layered vintage touches, these timeless pieces create a holiday atmosphere that’s uniquely your own.

I hope this list inspires you to keep an eye out for new (old) treasures the next time you’re wandering through an antique shop, flea market, or even your family’s attic. It’s amazing how much holiday magic you can create with pieces that already have a story.

Have a favorite vintage find you decorate with every year? I’d love to hear about it in the comments, or tag me over on Instagram so I can see how you style it! And if you’re looking for more vintage holiday inspiration, don’t miss these reader favorites:

I hope you found loads of antique Christmas decor inspiration here today among all these vintage shiny brites.

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Explore More Antique Christmas Decoration Ideas with Thrifting with the Gals

Looking for more inspiration for your antique Christmas decorations? These holiday favorites from my Thrifting with the Gals series are full of festive vintage finds, creative styling ideas, and timeless charm you can easily recreate at home. Tap through for more cozy holiday decorating fun!