Comparing Holiday Finds: Michaels vs. Hobby Lobby

I can't help but feel a thrill when October rolls around and stores start to unveil their festive holiday displays. For those who adore the winter holiday season, there’s no such thing as 'too early.'

The joys of meticulously selecting gift wrap or indulging in a peppermint latte while decoration shopping are hard to resist. As part of my holiday traditions, I frequent craft retailers Michaels and Hobby Lobby to scope out their seasonal selections. This year marked my third straight comparison shopping trip between these two popular chains.

Both stores were fully embraced in holiday cheer for 2025, and I discovered they each have their own strengths and drawbacks.

The Range of Artificial Christmas Trees

Both Michaels and Hobby Lobby featured an extensive array of artificial Christmas trees. Each location offered an impressive variety, including options with either flashing white or steady colored lights, snow-dusted or lightly flocked branches, and varying tree heights to suit any preference.

The selection included unconventional colors like black, pink, and the Grinch's green, alongside shimmering tinsel trees, ensuring shoppers could find the perfect tree to match their holiday vision.

Ornament Wonderland

Each store housed a treasure trove of ornaments, from multipacks of baubles that fit any color scheme to an assortment of unique themed ornaments.

Character-based ornaments from beloved franchises such as Harry Potter and Elf on the Shelf were plentiful, attracting diverse tastes. My purchase at Hobby Lobby included a charming glass camera for my film-enthusiast teenage son.

Mix and Match Decor Connoisseur

With a combination of playful and sophisticated designs, both Michaels and Hobby Lobby fueled my ideal holiday tree vision. From a monogrammed ornament at Michaels personalizing our family tree to a whimsical felt mouse, the options were delightful.

A tree combining elements from both stores would showcase a balance of creative and classic styles.

Decking the Halls with Assorted Adornments

Both retailers did not disappoint when it came to tree-trimming extras. Options ranged from strings of faux sugary treats to lush pine garlands that brought a touch of nature indoors.

Light-up figures, decorative yard signs, and even inflatable characters provided additional cheeriness for outdoor displays.

Themed Displays at Michaels

Michaels cleverly organized its holiday sections into themes, covering several aisles. Nutcracker motifs, traditional red and green settings, and eye-catching pink peppermint decor kept me browsing longer.

Additionally, a nostalgic collection adorned with dogs and cats brought a charming vintage allure.

Hobby Lobby's Scattered Thematic Displays

Similarly themed displays were scattered throughout Hobby Lobby, though a bit more dispersed. From jolly snowmen to elegant holiday figures like trees and reindeer, the themes were broad.

A dedicated Santa showcase and vibrant gingerbread decor highlighted the variety available, albeit spread across the store.

A Haven for Elf on the Shelf Enthusiasts

At Michaels, Elf on the Shelf fans would be delighted with shelves filled with related merchandise such as candies, outfits, and craft components. The store was a playground of options for families embracing the Elf on the Shelf tradition during the holidays.

A Touch of Grinch at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby seemed to be a haven for Grinch enthusiasts, featuring entire aisles dedicated to 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' related items.

Products ranging from furry, Grinch-inspired lampshades to mugs shaped like Max and Cindy Lou Who provided plenty of Grinchy flair.

Unique Offerings at Michaels

Our family trip to Michaels yielded a plethora of distinctive decor items. My daughter delighted in the 'silly cats' of the vintage-style range, whereas my husband was drawn to the 'Silent Night' collection adorned with all-black Christmas pieces.

Traditional Classics Reign at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby's offerings tended to stick to tried-and-true Christmas traditions. From classic Santa figures to candy cane motifs, the store's decor emphasized familiarity over novelty.

While traditional, these pieces remain beloved for a reason—timelessness.

Michaels: A Treasure Trove for TikTok-Inspired Crafts

Perfectly aligning with my teen's TikTok-influenced desires, Michaels carried an array of unfinished wood pieces ready for personalized holiday projects.

The anticipation of painting these items with friends was palpable, and our shopping haul included several wooden nutcrackers awaiting creative transformation.

Mixed Reactions from My Teen at Hobby Lobby

In contrast, my daughter was less impressed by Hobby Lobby’s decor style. The oversized gingerbread figures, in particular, didn’t win her over.

Despite this, I found items like Santa tea sets appealing, though it seems she is not the intended audience for some of Hobby Lobby's offerings.

Bargains Abound at Both Stores

Both Michaels and Hobby Lobby were bustling with seasonal sales and discounts that are a staple of holiday shopping.

A visit to Michaels boasted reductions like 30% off craft kits, discounted holiday candles, and significant price slashes on decor pieces. At Hobby Lobby, the grand 'everything Christmas' sale entailed 50% off.

Limited Representation of Other Winter Holidays

While both chains celebrate Christmas extensively, shoppers like myself might notice a lack of décor for other winter festivities such as Hanukkah, Diwali, or Kwanzaa.

Michaels sometimes features such holiday items in select locations, but this isn't always the case universally, whereas Hobby Lobby remains focused on Christian traditions.

Michaels: The Crafter's Paradise

For those with creative tendencies, Michaels proves to be a haven bursting with craft potential. Its selection outshines Hobby Lobby for those desiring unique and DIY holiday projects.

My daughter and I find ourselves returning regularly, particularly for supplies to enjoy while indulging in seasonal Hallmark movies.

Hobby Lobby: The Entertainer's Ally

If hosting holiday gatherings tops your holiday to-do list, Hobby Lobby emerges as the place to source essentials from decorative serveware to game night entertainment.

The retailer's extensive inventory is ideal for setting a festive party scene, whether casual or elaborate.

Choosing the Right Store for Your Holiday Needs

In conclusion, both Michaels and Hobby Lobby offer an impressive array of options for decorating your home this holiday season. The choice between them depends largely on personal priorities.

Michaels thrives for those inspired by adventurous DIY projects and diverse decor styles, while Hobby Lobby appeals to those hosting holiday shindigs and seeking classic festive charm.

Regardless of where you shop, each store promises a world of holiday enchantment to explore, preferably with a steaming peppermint latte in hand.