Simple Winter Olympic Decorations You Can Make in an Afternoon

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Winter Olympics watching already has so much going for it: cozy evenings, shared snacks, and the excitement of cheering together. Decorations should support that feeling — not turn into another project that takes over your week.

The good news? A few simple, low-effort touches are all it takes to make Olympic nights feel intentional and festive. These ideas use what you likely already have, come together quickly, and pair perfectly with easy Olympic snacks and at-home games.

Paper Olympic Rings Garland

This is a classic for a reason — and it’s surprisingly quick.

What you need:

Construction paper or cardstock
Scissors
String or twine
Tape or glue

Cut five simple rings, attach them to a string, and hang across a mantle, doorway, or TV stand. It instantly signals “Olympics” without overpowering your space.

A Simple Medal Display

If you’re playing at-home Olympic games, this one pulls everything together.

Easy options:

Hang homemade medals or purchased medals on hooks or knobs
Clip paper medals to a ribbon
Use a small tray or bowl labeled “Medals”

Display it near where you’ll serve snacks — it makes the whole setup feel cohesive and celebratory.

Flag Pennants (Low Effort Version)

Instead of making dozens of flags, choose just a few.

Try this:

Print small flags of favorite countries – Google the flag images and print
Tape them to string or ribbon
Hang above your snack table or activity area

This pairs especially well with a country-inspired snack board from your Olympic snack night.

Snowflakes That Take Five Minutes

Snowflakes add instant winter charm — no perfection required.

Options that work:

Paper snowflakes taped to windows
Felt snowflakes scattered on tables
White tissue paper snowballs in bowls

Keep them light and minimal so they feel seasonal, not cluttered.

Chalkboard or Whiteboard Medal Count

This adds both decor and interaction.

How to use it:

Write “Winter Olympics” at the top – Chalkboard or whiteboard
Track favorite countries or family game scores
Let kids update it each night

It’s simple, flexible, and becomes part of the experience rather than just something to look at.

Cozy Lighting Goes a Long Way

You don’t need Olympic-themed lights — just soft winter glow.

Try:

Battery candles
String lights
A lamp near your viewing area

Lighting alone can make popcorn and cocoa nights feel special.

Opening Night Setup (That Lasts All Week)

Instead of decorating every day, set things up once:

Hang your garland
Set out medals
Place your chalkboard
Prep your snack station

Then leave it up for the week. Olympic nights should feel easy — not like resetting a party over and over.

Keep the Focus Where It Belongs

The best Winter Olympic decorations don’t steal the show — they support it.

They frame the laughter during sock skating races, the cheers during close finishes, and the quiet moments when everyone’s sharing snacks on the couch.

That’s the real magic.

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Together, these three pieces create a simple, cozy Olympic rhythm your family can enjoy without stress. Make some Olympic memories from the comfort of your home with your little ones. They only get one childhood, let’s make it memorable and fun.