Many people look forward to the holidays, particularly Thanksgiving and Christmas. These are times for family get-togethers, great food, and good times. There are few things that will make these times more cozy and memorable than a crackling fireplace. Here are some simple tips that can transform your fireplace from a heat source into an integral part of your Thanksgiving holiday.

Clean it Up

Before you decorate the fireplace or build a fire, it’s crucial to ensure the fireplace and chimney are clean and safe. Schedule a cleaning and inspection with a professional chimney sweep. Ashes, soot, and creosote accumulate over time, impairing performance and increasing the risk of a fire. Also, check the damper to ensure it opens and closes correctly for efficient ventilation.

Test the Smoke Alarms

If you have a fireplace, you definitely should have smoke alarms throughout the house. The National Fire Protection Association says, “Roughly three out of five deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.” Experts recommend testing the fire alarms at least once a month, especially before the holidays, when using the fireplace more frequently.

Make the Mantel Welcoming

The fireplace is typically the focal point of the room it’s in, and the mantel is prime real estate for Thanksgiving decorations. Try layering a garland of autumn leaves and adding a few candles in warm, cozy hues like amber or cranberry. Battery-operated LED candles are a safe alternative for a glowing effect without worrying about a fire or accidental burns.

Many homeowners also add family photos and quotes about being thankful for a more personal touch.

Add a Firewood Rack with Seasonal Logs

Stocking up on firewood is perfect for keeping the fire going from Thanksgiving dinner all the way into the evening. Set up a sturdy firewood rack right by the fireplace—it’s super convenient and adds a rustic touch to your space.

Logs made of birch, oak, and cherry are fantastic for burning and also have a nice appearance when stacked. Additionally, cherry wood has a wonderful seasonal aroma that is appropriate for the season! Logs made of birch, oak, and cherry are fantastic for burning and also have a nice appearance when stacked. Additionally, cherry wood has a wonderful seasonal aroma that is appropriate for the season!

You might also consider using seasoned firewood to cut down on the smoke the fire makes. This can reduce the creosote buildup and ensure longer burn times. Kiln-dried logs are another option because they light quickly and burn cleaner than fresh cut firewood.

Create a Comfortable Seating Area

Fireplaces are natural gathering places, so arranging your furniture to take advantage of the focal point will encourage guests to congregate there. Place sofas, chairs, or floor cushions in a semi-circle around the fireplace. Add plush blankets and pillows to allow guests to get cozy as they talk or enjoy a dessert by the fire.

Infuse Seasonal Scents

Smells play a crucial role during the Thanksgiving holiday. Many people have fond memories of the smells from grandma’s kitchen or from the decorations during Thanksgiving. You can infuse seasonal aromas into the fireplace by using scent sticks, essential oils on logs, or scented fire starters. Consider cinnamon, pine, or apple-scented fire starters, or place a few drops of essential oils on the firewood to create a subtle, seasonal aroma that fills the room as the fire burns.

Put Up a Screen

The holidays are about making wonderful memories, and the last thing anyone wants is for someone to get hurt or worse, which is a possibility with a fireplace. That’s why you should use a fire screen. Fire screens come in many designs, from traditional wrought iron or glass. Adding one can enhance the room’s aesthetics, but more importantly, protect your guests and pets from a disaster.

Stock Up on Firestarters & Tools

If there’s one drawback about owning a fireplace it’s that fires take a lot of work to maintain, so it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Keep firestarters, matches, or a lighter within easy reach, but be careful to keep it out of the reach of kids. A firewood poker, tongs, and bellows can help you manage the flames and keep the fire going throughout the evening.

Plan for Toasty Thanksgiving Treats

Another advantage of having a fireplace for the holidays is creating special treats like roasted marshmallows or chestnuts to give your guests a fun and unique fireside experience. This can be especially fun for the kids.

With a little planning and creativity, your fireplace will be more than just a heat source — it can be the heart of your Thanksgiving gathering and something that your guests remember fondly and look forward to next year.

Call Keystone for more tips on creating a memorable fireplace for the holidays or getting your chimney and fireplace ready with a thorough cleaning and inspection.