Last Updated: May 24, 2023 @ 10:21 am.

What is the best garland? To find out, we asked our parent readers for their favorites. Then we did six more hours of research, comparing quality and value. What was best for a mantel? For a table centerpiece? Here are the ones we think are best.

FYI: We've been reviewing and rating products for the home and families since 1994. We don't take money or freebies from the brands we review. Our work is 100% reader-supported!


Best Pre-Lit Garland

Great on a mantle
So pretty! Loved the mix of red berries, pine cones and silver accents on this nine-foot garland. This garland plugs-in, but a battery-operated option is also available.

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Best Pre-Lit Garland: National Tree Company Pre-lit Artificial Garland

We looked at several pre-lit garlands that were reader favorites before picking this one by National Tree Company as the best bet for most folks.

We loved the overall quality and look—unlike other garlands, this one had the prettiest aesthetic with a nice mix of berries and pine cones.

What We Liked

• Pre-lit with 50 white lights—very pretty!

• Nice mix of pine cones and berries.

• Looks great on a mantel.

• Battery option available. This article links to the plug-in version, but if you prefer, there is a battery option as well.

What Needs Work

• Requires assembly.

• Glitter can get everywhere when you remove it from the box.

Best Red Berry Garland

Six foot length great for smaller mantles
Great for indoor or outdoor use, this garland is packed with red berries and looks delightful. If you love red berries and holly leaves, this garland is a best bet. Caveat: not lighted.

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Best Red Berry Garland: DearHouse 6FT Red Berry Garland

There are two types of folks when it comes to garlands: those that like some red berries in their garlands . . . and those that can’t get enough red berries.

If you fall into the latter camp, we would recommend DearHouse’s six foot garland. It’s packed with more red berries than other garlands we researched—and the quality is impressive.

What We Liked

• Red berries galore!

• Lightweight.

• Easily bendable.

• Fits nicely on a mantel.

What Needs Work

• Not as thick as other garlands we researched.

Best Rustic Look

Easy to bend into shapes
For a softer and more natural look, we thought this garland was a stand-out. The mini pine cones add just the right touch and the tufts of pine needles are beautiful.

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Best Rustic Look: CraftMore Smokey Pine Garland 6 Feet

The tufts of pine needles give this garland a distinctive rustic look—definitely more unique and natural-looking than other garlands we researched.

What We Liked

• Mini pine cones.

• Great for indoor or covered outdoor use.

• Easy to form to a desired shape.

• Soft and natural look.

What Needs Work

• No lights.

• Looks a bit more sparse than other garlands. That is by designed and we liked the aesthetic. However, other folks who prefer a more thick garland may be disappointed.

Best For Trees

Catches the sunlight
If you want to add some sparkle to a tree or mantle, this garland is an excellent choice. Loved how the clear and gold accents add just the right amount of festive color.

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Best For Trees: Klikel Clear Iridescent and Gold Bead Garland

If you are looking for a garland to add some bling to a tree or other fireplace mantel, this would be our pick. No, it doesn’t have any greenery—instead, this garland features two strings of beads with gold and clear tones. Very pretty when it catches the light.

What We Liked

• Beautiful on a tree or mantel.

• Affordable.

• Durable beads that catch the light.

What Needs Work

• No lights.

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability. When we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money.

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!

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