I love decorating for the holidays and decorating the coop is no different! Some years, I keep it very simple, and other years, we go all out. This year is on the simpler side. But here are some fun ideas for you to “spruce” up your coop for Christmas.
1. Simple and Elegant
Let’s start with a classic! Incorporating some greenery in your coop can bring a touch of holiday spirit without being too overwhelming. Evergreen wreaths are a great addition to the outside of your coop. Not only do they look beautiful, but they can also serve as a natural air freshener for your coop. Don’t forget to add some planters or other winter plants for a pop of color.
You can even get crafty and create some DIY decorations for your coop! You can make edible garlands using popcorn, cranberries, grapes, Brussels sprouts, etc. Just make sure the fruits and veggies you're using are safe for your chickens to eat. The best part about DIY decorations is that you can get the whole family involved in the fun! Not only will it look great, but your chickens will love being able to peck at the garland and get some added nutrition.
Photo Credit: Christmaswinter.
2. Light it Up with Colored Lights
Even Jennifer Garner decorates her coop! There is something so nostalgic about colored lights isn’t there? Why not turn your coop into a winter wonderland with some colored lights? Drape a few strings of lights around the outside of the coop or place them inside to create a warm and festive glow. Remember, only use lights on the outside of the coop to prevent any risk of injury or fire. Your chickens will love the cozy ambiance, and it will also help to keep predators at bay.
Photo Credit: People Magazine
3. Decorate With Natural Greenery
Adding natural greenery like evergreen boughs, holly berries and pine cones can give your coop a beautiful, natural look. You can make a wreath to hang on the door using foliage from your backyard or buy one from your local florist. I typically like to put some natural greenery around my coop porch and then add some decorations to it.
Another idea: if you're going Christmas tree shopping, why not add one to your chicken coop? Place a small tree in the corner of your coop, or even hang some natural ornaments (berries, popcorn, pinecones, etc.) and edible garland from the branches. Your chickens will love having a new item to peck at, and it will definitely add some Christmas spirit to their space! Just make sure your Christmas tree is safe for your chickens before you add it to your coop!
Get creative and have fun with it! Your chickens will love the added stimulation, and you'll love how cute and lively your coop looks.
Photo credit: The Art of Doing Stuff
4. Hang Decorations
Finally, don't forget to add some fun and festive decorations to the coop! You could hang small ornaments on the outside, or even create your own mini stockings filled with treats for your feathered friends. Just make sure anything you hang is safe for birds to investigate and won't accidentally harm them. For example, don't use metal hooks to hang your ornaments. Stick with string or twine.
You don’t have to have an extravagant coop to make it cute for Christmas. Get some Christmas ornaments and a wreath, and you're all done!
Photo Credit: Raising Happy Chickens.
If you're feeling extra festive, why not dress up your chickens in some holiday attire? There are plenty of cute and cozy chicken sweaters available online (yes, really!) or you could get creative and make your own sweaters and scarfs. Just make sure that any clothing or accessories you choose to put on your chickens are safely and comfortably fitted, and that they don't impede your birds' natural movements. Here's a photo from last year with Happy in her holiday scarf. How cute is she?
Happy all dressed up for Christmas
Decorating your coop for Christmas should be fun! If something as simple as hanging a wreath on the door brings you joy, do it! If you like to add a bit more twinkle and have electricity, go ahead and light it up! The Christmas season is short and can be overwhelming at the same time. If decorating your chicken coop brings you (and your chickens!) a little bit of joy, it’s all worth it.
Lastly, don't forget to add some holiday-scented Coop Recuperate™ Orange Spice! Crafted with the finest essential oils and diatomaceous earth, this coop refresher will leave your hen house smelling like the holidays while also reducing unwanted ammonia odors and keeping your chickens healthy all season long.
Happy decorating my friends!
Until next time,
–The Wing Lady