25 Unique Alternatives to Real Christmas Trees
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Want to forgo the traditional Christmas tree this year? There are plenty of ways to celebrate without paying big bucks for a fresh one or opting to buy an artificial tree. Look ahead for 25 money-saving, eco-friendly, and creative ways to incorporate the ultimate symbol of the holiday season into your home. And once you've taken care of your decor, make sure to shop our many affordable gift guides.
Wood Tree
Tree 4 Life makes this wooden Christmas tree ($470) out of birch, but it'll cost you.
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Minimal Greenery Tree
The simplicity makes this wall tree stand out.
Book Tree
Bookworms will love how easy this tree is to make at home.
Recycled Box Tree
Who doesn't have an abundance of Amazon boxes, especially around the holidays? Put them to good use by stacking them up and adding lights.
Frosted Branches Hanging Tree
Purchase a frosted branch hanging tree ($70) and all you have to do is add lights and ornaments.
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Succulent Tree
Think beyond pine with a festive green tree made of succulent plants.
Paper Tree
Roll up blueprints and voila — a paper tree.
Favorite Things Tree
Hang your favorite photos, frames, and knickknacks on the wall in the shape of the tree. Such a fun idea!
Recycled Cardboard Tree
Order your own recycled cardboard tree ($28) and decorate it however you'd like.
Twiggy Tree
Bare branches make for easy ornament displays.
Metal Stand Tree
You don't have to have a traditional Christmas tree to display your favorite ornaments.
Ladder Tree
A ladder tree doesn't require much to make it your own.
Dried Fronds Tree
Dried palm fronds take on a new life when dressed up for the holiday season.
Downhill Skis Tree
Your love of the snow sport will show when you display a tree made entirely of skis.
Box Tree
When combined, kraft-paper boxes can make a seasonal statement.
Cactus Tree
Garland makes these cacti extra festive.
Wall Art Tree
DIY your own Christmas tree to hang on the wall.
Hanging Driftwood Tree
Find your own driftwood to create this DIY hanging tree.
Crate Box Tree
Stack your supply of crates in the shape of a tree to give your Christmas decor a unique spin.
Mussel Shell Tree
Mussels make an unexpected tabletop Christmas tree.
Tripod Tree
Three wooden dowels combine to create a simple tree.
Chalkboard Tree
It doesn't get simpler than drawing your tree on a chalkboard.
Driftwood Tree
This tree takes Christmas to a beachy level.
Large Ladder Tree
Propping open a wooden ladder and stringing your favorite ornaments across looks easy enough.
Stick and Light Tree
DIY your own hanging stick tree with twine, branches, and seasonal decor.