12 Christmas Ornaments That Perfectly Sum Up 2020

I’m just going to call it like I see it: 2020 has had its fair share of meme-able moments. From “Tiger King” and Joe Exotic to a toilet paper shortage seen the world over, this year was, well, something else.

If, like many people, you’re in the habit of picking up a few holiday tree ornaments to help mark the year’s memories, boy, do I have a treat for you! Snag one of these cheeky Christmas ornaments for yourself or a friend to help commemorate this 365 days that many might want to forget. These pieces also make great, easy-to-ship gifts, so my advice is order now before they’re out of stock—or it’s too late to use them.

You know I had to, right? If there were an unofficial mascot of 2020, hand sanitizer would probably be it. Note: This cute little ornament does not replace actual hand washing. Keep on scrubbing, friends.

Buy: Hand Sanitizer Glass Ornament, $28.00 from Anthropologie

If there is one thing that did thrive in 2020, it’s probably your plant babies. So why not add a little greenery to your greenery with something approved by Joanna Gaines herself?

Buy: Houseplant Ornament, $20.00 from Magnolia

Do you remember at the beginning of quarantine, when everyone was optimistically baking banana bread and raising sourdough starters? Me too. In fact, I’m hungry just thinking about it. Commemorate all that doughy, crumbly goodness with this banana bread beauty from Society Social.

Buy: Banana Bread Ornament, $15.95 from Society Social

Shout out to Dr. Fauci: You’re the real MVP of 2020. Honestly, the NIAID director probably deserves to serve as the angel atop all the trees this year, but I’ll settle for this fun ornament of his likeness.

Buy: Doctor Fauci Keep Calm Ornament, $12.99 from The Paper Store

It’s 2020; “Zoom” is now a thing that gets mentioned 500 times a day, and many presumably get dressed presentably only from the waist up. Apologies in advance if the sight of this felt logo ornament immediately made you break out into hives, but my hope is that it made you chuckle a little bit instead.

Buy: Zoom Ornament, $12.00 from Etsy

Yes, there is now such a thing as a toilet paper Christmas tree ornament. Yes, it’s amazing. Yes, this is the cheap laugh we all needed this year. You’re welcome.

Buy: Toilet Paper Christmas Ornament, $12.00 from Urban Outfitters

I speak on behalf of myself and thousands of other binge-watchers when I say that streaming “Schitt’s Creek” repeats (and that final season, sigh), is one of the only things that got me through this year smiling. Dare I say it’s… simply the best? TBH, I’m probably buying this ornament set for myself. It’s my turn to take a selfish.

Buy: “Schitt’s Creek” Ornament Set, $48.00 for a Set of 4 from Etsy

Pay homage to the formidable late Supreme Court justice and maybe give any kiddos in your life a history lesson or two as they hang this felt ornament on a branch. New holiday motto: Every tree needs this mini RBG.

Buy: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Felt Ornament, $23.99 from Etsy

For your favorite coworker, or maybe your boss that still can’t seem to figure out how to work a computer mic eight months in, I present this geometric engraved wood ornament. This piece pretty much sums up 2020 with just one simple phrase.

Buy: Sorry I Was on Mute Ornament, $15.00 from Etsy

Here’s a bold statement: No holiday tree is complete without a glass likeness of The Tiger King, also known as Joe Exotic, also known as The Man Who Launched 1,000 Memes. Secret Santa might be tough this year, but this would be my pick for an inexpensive stocking stuffer or general gift exchange present.

Buy: Tiger King Holiday Ornament, $20.00 from Burke Decor

Finally, an ornament that calls out 2020 for exactly what it is, only in pretty pink enamel, because aesthetics. This is another Secret Santa contender for me and is guaranteed to get a chuckle or two.

Buy: Dumpster Fire Ornament, $14.99 from Etsy

There’s a chance that some may look back on this year somewhat fondly as a time of slowing down, focusing on what’s important, and spending some extra time tending to loved ones. In that case, you’ll probably be glad you have a charming (and very pretty) ornament to commemorate the year you did nothing for the greater good. 

Buy: Custom Glass Ornament, $30.00 from Etsy