A Very Merry Martha-Inspired Holiday Season

It's the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is a magical time of celebration, uniting with family, and taking some well-deserved rest after a busy year. Homes start to overflow with joyous decorations and gifts, holiday goodies fill up ovens, and the familiar sounds of Christmas music fill every store. With a little effort inspired by Martha's love for entertaining, you can make this holiday season one you'll never forget.

Whether your holiday style is traditional or modern, we've collected all of our best entertaining ideas, party menus, cookie recipes, and all the good things you need to make your season bright from Thanksgiving through New Year's. For even more ideas, check out Martha Stewart Holidays, a special print issue celebrating the holiday season.

Give Thanks

If you're hosting a family Thanksgiving or a Friendsgiving celebration for the first or 10th time, we're here to help you conquer the day. Before thinking about the food you'll serve, take some time to evaluate your space and dream of how you can transform it into an autumnal scene. Make one of our stand-out centerpiece ideas, or try your hand at folding turkey-shaped napkins for each place setting.

For your Thanksgiving feast, we have the best recipes to ace each part of the meal, from appetizers to sides to desserts. And if you're not a turkey fan, we have plenty of other ideas for an inspired entrée that breaks tradition. If this is your first time hosting the big meal, use our simple timeline and menu to help get the feast on the table with ease. Finish the meal with a toast of gratitude inspired by our list of Thanksgiving quotes.

Season's Greetings

Make holiday magic this year with décor ideas straight from Martha's homes, from pinecone wreaths and elaborate gingerbread houses to glittering trees in every hue. Try a new color scheme for your decorations outside the traditional red and green, and spend a day making handmade ornaments that will be in your family for many Christmases to come.

A good present is always thoughtful, but we believe nothing beats a handmade gift from the heart. Bake our cookie recipes (including some of Martha's favorites) and deliver a box of decadent delights to friends, neighbors, coworkers, and everyone on your list. Our delicious ideas can be whipped up in your kitchen, wrapped together in style, and hand-delivered for a special touch of holiday magic.

Ring in the New Year

New Year's Eve can look different for everyone. You might make a special dinner at home for your family and end the night with a simple Champagne toast after a busy Christmas, or you could throw a big party for all your closest friends to usher in 2025. Whichever way you decide to celebrate, we have all the recipes and DIY decorations to say goodbye to 2024 with a bang.