10 Decorations You Think Are Festive But Actually Offensive
It’s the holiday season—a time to celebrate, come together, and share joy. Decorating your home or space is one of the best ways to get into the festive spirit. However, in the rush to deck the halls, it’s easy to overlook that not all traditions or symbols are cheerful for everyone. Some decorations may perpetuate stereotypes or strike the wrong chord.
Decorations are often habitual, tied to long-standing traditions. Yet, understanding how festive items could affect others is crucial for fostering a more inclusive holiday season. Nobody wants their holiday charm to create an unwelcoming or alienating atmosphere.
1. Elf-on-the-Shelf as a Surveillance Symbol
Some critics argue that Elf-on-the-Shelf, often seen as a playful tradition, promotes unhealthy ideas about surveillance. It normalizes the idea of constant monitoring and judgment, which can feel unsettling. Families emphasizing autonomy and critical thinking may find this tradition contrary to the season’s spirit of safety and joy.
2. Native American Imagery
Using Native American headdresses, teepees, or feathers in holiday décor is deeply disrespectful. These symbols carry profound cultural and spiritual significance and are not mere props. Additionally, the holidays often have a complicated history with Native communities, particularly around Thanksgiving. Opt for decorations that are respectful and neutral.
3. Racist Lawn Characters / Blackface
Although it might seem like a relic of the past, caricatured lawn characters or blackface figurines still appear in some decorations. These are blatantly offensive and perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Even if intended as an antique or “historical” touch, such items should be avoided altogether.
4. Religious Symbols without Context
Using crosses, menorahs, or statues of deities can be a way to show cultural appreciation, but displaying them without understanding their religious significance can be offensive. For example, using a Buddha to create a “zen holiday vibe” misrepresents its spiritual meaning. Stick to decorations that reflect your own traditions.
5. War-Themed Ornaments
While honoring veterans is important, decorating with tanks or soldier figurines can seem insensitive. The holiday season is about peace, and war-themed ornaments contradict this spirit. Show respect through other thoughtful means, such as donating to veterans’ organizations.
6. Halloween–Style Decorations in December
Over-the-top bloody or horror-themed decorations might seem quirky, but many people view the holidays as a time for gentleness and nostalgia. Life-sized zombie Santas and similar decorations can detract from the season’s warmth. Traditional, cozy decorations are often better received.
7. General Cultural Appropriation
Adopting elements from other cultures in ways that distort or trivialize them can cause offense. For instance, using sugar skulls—integral to Mexican traditions—as generic holiday ornaments commercializes rather than honors the culture. Take time to learn about the culture you reference and avoid appropriative decorations.
8. Misleading Environmental Themes
Decorations marketed as “eco-friendly” but containing microplastics or non-recyclable materials can be misleading. Glitter, fake snow, and other faux-sustainable items often harm the environment. Choose genuinely sustainable options, such as handmade ornaments or locally sourced greenery.
9. Overly Adult-Themed Holiday Figurines
Sexualized depictions of Santa, elves, or other holiday figures may seem funny, but they can make gatherings uncomfortable—especially for families with children. The holidays are about inclusion, and overly adult-themed items miss that mark.
10. Religions or Traditions Mocked by Inflatable Decorations
Inflatable yard decorations can be fun and whimsical, but some cross the line by mocking religious figures or cultural traditions. Sacred icons turned into humorous blow-ups can be dismissive of others’ beliefs. Celebrate in ways that honor rather than trivialize different traditions.
