Kitchen design
How to Set a Christmas Table: Place Settings, Crackers and Centrepieces
The cutlery order that never confuses anyone, where the crackers go, and a centrepiece that still leaves room for the turkey.
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A Christmas table should look special but still leave room for the food. Plan it a day or two ahead, and set it the night before if you can.
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Each place setting
- Dinner plate in the centre (warm the plates just before serving).
- Forks on the left, knives on the right, blades facing in, in the order they will be used, working inwards.
- Dessert spoon and fork above the plate.
- Glasses above the knives: water glass first, then wine glasses.
- Napkin on the plate or to the left, with a cracker across the top or on the plate.
The centre of the table
| Keep | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Low centrepieces, so people can see each other | Tall arrangements that block conversation |
| A clear strip for serving dishes and the turkey | Candles near crackers, paper hats and greenery |
| Trivets for hot dishes | Scented candles next to food |
Practical touches
- Plan where the turkey and dishes land: on the table or a sideboard.
- Put out salt, pepper, gravy and sauces before everyone sits.
- Count chairs and plates the day before.
For the glasses, see wine and sherry glasses; for the cheese course, cheese knives; and for a festive drink, punch bowls.
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Frequently asked questions
Which side do the knives and forks go?
Forks on the left, knives on the right with blades facing the plate, arranged so you use them from the outside in.
Where do Christmas crackers go on the table?
Across the top of each plate or on the napkin, so guests can pull them with their neighbours before the meal.
How tall should a table centrepiece be?
Low enough to see over when seated, usually under about 30 cm, or very slim and tall so it does not block faces.