20 Trending Dried Orange Christmas Decorations for 2025: Natural, Fragrant, and Beautiful Ideas

As Christmas 2025 approaches, one of the most heartwarming décor trends lighting up homes everywhere is the use of dried oranges. The natural beauty of orange slices, with their amber glow and sweet scent, brings a sense of comfort and tradition back into holiday decorating. In a world that is becoming more eco-conscious, using natural materials like dried fruit has become both a creative and sustainable way to celebrate the season. These handmade decorations fill spaces with warmth, simplicity, and a nostalgic charm that feels wonderfully timeless.

The Rise of Natural Holiday Décor

Over the past few years, more people have turned away from plastic ornaments and synthetic decorations, seeking instead to capture the essence of a slower, handmade Christmas. Dried oranges fit beautifully into this growing trend. They are easy to make, versatile to use, and pair naturally with seasonal scents like cinnamon, clove, and pine. This year, the dried orange trend has evolved even further, with new ideas emerging that blend classic traditions with fresh modern styles.

How to Dry Orange Slices in an Air Fryer for Ornaments

A newer and faster technique that has gained massive popularity this year is drying orange slices in an air fryer. The air fryer helps speed up the process while keeping the slices beautifully vibrant and evenly dried. To do this, slice fresh oranges into thin, even rounds and pat them dry with a paper towel. Arrange them in the air fryer at a low temperature, usually between 80 and 90 degrees Celsius, for two to three hours, flipping them every half hour. When they are fully dry and translucent, they are ready to be used as ornaments. These slices look beautiful hanging from Christmas trees, where they glow softly under the twinkling lights. This technique has become a favorite among busy families who still want to enjoy the magic of homemade décor.

Oven Dried Orange Garland Step by Step

For those who prefer a more traditional approach, drying oranges in the oven remains a classic craft that never goes out of style. The process is simple but rewarding. After slicing your oranges, bake them on low heat for several hours, turning them occasionally to ensure even drying. The slow drying preserves their rich color and prevents browning. Once cooled, the slices can be strung together with twine or ribbon to make a lovely garland. Draped over a fireplace, across a window, or along a stair railing, it brings an earthy glow and a touch of rustic charm to any space. This timeless project feels meditative and fulfilling, making it one of the most beloved holiday crafts.

Dried Orange Slice Garland with Cinnamon

The combination of dried oranges and cinnamon sticks creates an unforgettable aroma that instantly evokes the spirit of Christmas. To create this garland, alternate orange slices with small bundles of cinnamon tied with string. The warm color contrast between the orange and brown gives the decoration a cozy, handcrafted look. Hanging it across a mantel or doorway fills the air with the scent of citrus and spice, a fragrance that feels like a comforting holiday memory. This idea blends visual appeal and scent beautifully, transforming your home into a space that feels alive with festive warmth.

Scandinavian Dried Orange Christmas Ideas

Scandinavian-inspired decorating continues to influence Christmas trends, emphasizing minimalism, calm colors, and natural materials. Dried oranges fit effortlessly into this aesthetic. Pair them with white candles, wooden ornaments, and soft greenery such as eucalyptus or cedar. Create simple hanging ornaments using just a single dried slice on a piece of white string or design a clean wreath that highlights the natural textures of citrus and foliage. This style celebrates the beauty of simplicity and encourages the idea that the most elegant decorations often come from nature itself.

Dried Orange Wreath for the Front Door

A dried orange wreath brings a burst of color and fragrance to your front door. Begin with a sturdy base such as grapevine or wire, then layer it with fresh or faux greenery. Add the dried orange slices throughout, securing them with floral wire. The natural shine of the oranges catches the light beautifully and stands out against deep green foliage. To add variety, tuck in pinecones, berries, or small clusters of star anise. This type of wreath lasts for weeks and welcomes guests with both beauty and scent. It represents everything people love about handmade Christmas décor: creativity, simplicity, and a personal touch.

Rustic Centerpiece with Dried Oranges and Greenery

A table adorned with natural décor sets the mood for holiday gatherings. Create a long centerpiece using fresh pine branches or faux garland as a base. Layer dried orange slices, whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks along the runner. When the light catches the oranges, they glow warmly, contrasting perfectly with the deep green tones of the foliage. Add a few candles or string lights for evening dinners. This idea brings together sight, scent, and texture, making your holiday meals feel magical and intimate.

Dried Orange and Cranberry Garland

Color contrast makes this garland stand out. The rich red of dried cranberries next to the golden hue of oranges creates a festive balance that looks stunning in any room. Thread the slices and berries together carefully with a needle and string. Hang the garland over windows, mirrors, or mantels. The combination of colors gives a classic holiday appearance while still feeling modern and natural.

Dried Orange Suncatchers

Hanging dried orange slices in windows is one of the most visually striking ways to use them. The light shines through the translucent fruit, creating a golden glow that brightens winter days. To make them even more interesting, press small pieces of herbs or cloves into the oranges before they dry. When hung with invisible thread or fishing line, they appear to float in the air like small pieces of stained glass. This is a simple decoration that instantly transforms the atmosphere of a room.

Mini Dried Orange Tree Ornaments

Small dried orange ornaments are both charming and easy to make. Once your slices are dry, simply thread a ribbon or piece of twine through the top. Tie a bow or attach a small bead for extra detail. When hung on the tree, these ornaments bring a touch of nature’s warmth to the branches. They also pair beautifully with other natural elements such as wooden stars, dried flowers, or paper ornaments. Every year, these small handmade ornaments can become keepsakes that add meaning to your family’s decorations.

Dried Orange and Wooden Bead Garland

Mixing wooden beads with dried oranges is a trend that reflects modern farmhouse and boho influences. The smooth texture of the beads complements the rustic look of the orange slices. Together they create a garland that feels fresh and timeless. It can be wrapped around trees, draped across mantels, or used as a wall accent. The neutral tones of wood help the oranges stand out even more, giving your home a relaxed yet stylish feel.

Dried Orange Potpourri for Holiday Scent

Potpourri is making a comeback as people look for natural ways to fragrance their homes. Combine dried orange slices with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and bay leaves in a decorative bowl. The scent is rich and comforting, reminding everyone of baking and cozy firesides. This mix not only smells beautiful but also adds color to side tables or countertops. To keep the scent strong throughout the season, refresh it occasionally with a few drops of essential oil.

Dried Orange Resin Ornaments

One of the newer creative trends involves sealing dried orange slices in clear resin. This technique preserves the color and adds a glossy finish that looks stunning when light hits it. Resin ornaments can be used as tree decorations, window hangings, or coasters. They make excellent handmade gifts as well, since each one has a unique pattern of light and texture. It’s a modern take on a traditional material and adds sophistication to your natural holiday décor.

Dried Orange Place Settings

Using dried orange slices in table settings is a simple way to make every meal feel special. Tie a slice to each napkin with ribbon or twine and add a small sprig of rosemary or thyme for color. The scent of citrus will mingle subtly with your meal, and the table will look elegant and festive. This is a thoughtful detail that turns an ordinary dinner into a celebration.

Dried Orange Candle Rings

Surrounding candles with small circles of dried oranges and herbs adds both fragrance and visual interest. These candle rings are easy to make and can be reused year after year. Always place them safely around the base of candles, ensuring they are far enough from the flame. The gentle scent released by the warm air adds a soothing, festive feel to your space.

Citrus Window Hanging

Mix oranges with lemons and limes to create a colorful hanging display. The range of yellow, green, and orange tones brightens up even the darkest winter corner. Hang them near windows where natural light enhances their glow. The cheerful color palette brings freshness and positivity to your décor, proving that Christmas decorations can be both joyful and simple.

Dried Orange and Eucalyptus Door Garland

For a fresh and fragrant look, combine eucalyptus leaves with dried orange slices and weave them into a long garland. The soft green of the eucalyptus blends beautifully with the warm orange tones. Hang this garland over doorways, mirrors, or shelves to bring a natural aroma to your home. This style has become especially popular because it fits easily with both traditional and modern interiors.

Dried Orange Gift Toppers

Adding dried oranges to gift wrapping makes every present look thoughtfully prepared. Attach a single slice with a strand of twine or ribbon, and perhaps include a small cinnamon stick or sprig of pine. This natural decoration not only looks beautiful but also gives off a faint, pleasant scent. It transforms even the simplest wrapping into something heartfelt and memorable.

Dried Orange Centerpiece in Glass Jars

A creative and glowing idea is to fill glass jars with layers of dried orange slices, pinecones, and fairy lights. When lit, these jars give off a soft golden shimmer that warms any space. They are perfect for side tables, shelves, or windowsills. This decoration can be used long after Christmas, bringing cozy light into winter nights.

Vintage Boho Orange and Lace Décor

For a romantic and vintage-inspired look, pair dried oranges with lace ribbons, antique charms, and soft neutral tones. This mix of rustic and delicate elements creates an atmosphere of quiet elegance. The combination works especially well in boho or farmhouse interiors where texture and natural beauty are key. Each piece looks handmade and one of a kind, giving your décor personality and charm.

The Joy of Handmade Christmas Décor

Dried orange decorations are more than just crafts. They are symbols of creativity, patience, and appreciation for the natural world. In a season often filled with bright lights and artificial sparkle, the warm glow of dried citrus feels refreshingly real. These decorations connect us with simpler times, where handmade pieces told stories and filled homes with love. Whether you hang a garland across your mantel, make a wreath for your door, or fill your space with glowing jars, the beauty of dried oranges will always remind you that the best decorations come from nature itself.