The leaves are changing colors, the air is getting crisper and pumpkin spice everything is back on the shelves. That can only mean one thing: Thanksgiving is right around the corner! For many, this holiday marks the official kickoff of the holiday season. It’s a time to reflect on what we’re grateful for and enjoy quality time with loved ones. And what better way to get in the Thanksgiving spirit than to decorate your home with some whimsical turkey decor? Inflatable turkey yard decorations are a fun, festive way to celebrate the holiday outside. Keep reading to learn all about decking your lawn with these quirky birds!
A Brief History of Inflatable Yard Decorations
Before we dive into turkeys specifically, let’s take a quick look at the history of inflatable turkey yard decoration in general. These quirky figures first started popping up (pun intended!) in the 1960s. Many credit a company called Union Products with pioneering affordable, mass-produced versions made of vinyl.
Originally, the most popular choices were Santa Claus, snowmen, and other Christmas characters. Their bright colors and blow-up design added a playful, eye-catching element to countless holiday displays.
Over the years, the offerings expanded to include other holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving. Today you can find inflatable decorations representing everything from movie characters to unicorns! While styles and technology have advanced, that whimsical spirit remains.
Why Showcase Inflatables for Thanksgiving?
You may be wondering, why use inflatable turkey yard decoration to decorate for Thanksgiving specifically? Here are some of the top reasons these turkey decorations are perfect for the holiday:
- They’re fun and playful – Inflatables bring a sense of joy and whimsy to your display. That fits perfectly with Thanksgiving’s emphasis on childlike wonder.
- They’re festive – Vibrant colors and larger-than-life designs make a bold statement. You can instantly transform your yard into a seasonal spectacle.
- ** They’re on theme** – Turkeys are one of the most iconic symbols of Thanksgiving. Inflatable versions are a natural choice that guests will instantly recognize.
- They’re eye-catching – Face it, standard cornucopias and mini pumpkins are boring. Inflatables stand out and give people something to smile about.
- They’re nostalgic – For many, blow-up decorations are a beloved tradition that inspire a sense of nostalgia. Displaying them brings back fond memories.
Picking the Perfect Inflatable Turkey
If you’re sold on showcasing an inflatable turkey this Thanksgiving, how do you pick the perfect one? Here are some factors to consider as you shop around:
Size
Inflatable turkeys come in a range of sizes, usually from 3 to 10 feet tall. Smaller options work well on porches and in compact yards. Giant inflatables make more of an impact on larger properties. Make sure to measure the space you want to fill and buy accordingly.
Colors
While most inflatables feature red, orange, brown, and yellow as classic “turkey colors”, some have more unique schemes. You can find turkeys decorated in patriotic patterns, holiday greens with snowflakes, and even metallics like blue and purple. Pick hues that coordinate with your overall decor.
Design
Some inflatable turkeys are made to look semi-realistic, while others have more caricature-like features. Carefully styled turkeys include details like tail feathers, snoods, and waddles. Cartoonish ones may have oversized parts for comic effect. Consider which aesthetic you prefer.
Special Effects
For added excitement, look for inflatables with special effects. Some have animatronic moving parts like waving wings, pecking beaks, or head turning. Others feature fun illumination with lights inside that make them glow at night. These extra touches bring an extra dose of holiday magic.
Quality
As with most products, price and quality go hand in hand with inflatable decorations. Cheaper versions may underinflate, deflate faster, rip more easily, or have frayed edges. Invest in a premium piece for something that will last season after season.
Turkey Inflatable Design & Placement Ideas
Once you’ve picked the perfect inflatable turkey, it’s time to decide how to showcase it. Here are some tips for designing creative turkey displays and placing your inflatable:
Go for groups
Want to make a bold statement? Use three to five inflatable turkeys of varying sizes together. You can nestle them together, scatter them around the yard, or line them up peeking over a fence. Groups create a fun flock and get more attention than just one lone bird.
Use stands
For proper inflation and stability, most turkey inflatables need to be anchored to a display stand. Opt for metal or plastic stands with a wide, flat base. Place stands securely on level ground and out of the way of electrical cords for optimal safety.
Add accent decorations
Surround your inflatable turkeys with other Thanksgiving decor for a cohesive look. Opt for faux autumn leaves, pumpkins, hay bales, corn stalks, and more. You can scatter decor around the base or use it to build complete seasonal scenes.
Light it up
For extra nighttime drama, accent your display with lighting. Spotlights or flood lights provide illumination. String lights add festive sparkle. Display your turkeys and lighting on timers so everything automatically turns on at dusk each evening.
Pick prominent placement
Maximize your inflatable’s impact by placing it prominently. Good options include centering it on the lawn, putting it near the driveway to greet guests, or elevating it on a porch or balcony. Make sure the electrical outlet access is workable when picking the perfect spot.
Setting Up and Maintaining Your Turkey
Once you’ve purchased your inflatable turkey and designed your display, it’s time for the fun part – setting it up! Here are some tips for getting your inflatable turkey yard decoration looking its best:
Carefully unroll and position
When setting up, carefully unroll your inflatable on a clean, debris-free area. Attach it to your stand according to the directions. Make sure it’s facing the desired direction before turning on the blower.
Regularly check inflation
It’s normal for inflatables to lose a bit of air over time. Check your turkey daily to ensure it’s fully inflated. Refill as needed according to the directions. Proper inflation will keep it looking its best.
Stake it down
Inflatables catch the wind, so stake down your turkey if needed. Use stakes designed for securing inflatables or make DIY versions with rebar and bungee cords. This prevents tipping or spinning.
Clean periodically
Dirt, debris, and mold can build up on inflatable surfaces over time. About once a week, wipe down your turkey with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Let it fully dry before reinflating.
Deflate when not in use
For prolonged lifespan, fully deflate your inflatable when not on display. Carefully follow the deflation directions. Store it gently rolled up and packed away indoors when not in use.
Check for rips
Inspect your inflatable periodically for small holes or tears which can cause deflation. For minor repairs, patch tears with specially formulated vinyl repair kits. Avoid overinflating to reduce the risk of rips.
Creative Inflatable Turkey Inspiration
Need a little extra inspiration for decking out your yard with inflatable turkeys? Here are some fun, creative ways other homeowners have showcased these playful decorations:
- A flock of 3 turkeys “talking” on an animated porch chat scene
- A giant turkey inflated in the bed of a parked pickup truck or tractor
- A mix of turkeys wearing pilgrim hats and Native American headdresses
- Turkeys stacked up like totem poles for a unique shape
- A turkey parade with a line of 3-4 inflatables marching across the lawn
- Turkeys clustered around an inflatable dinner table “feasting”
- Glowing turkeys framing the doorway or walkway with string lights lining the path
- Pairing turkeys with other oversized autumn items like pumpkin stacks and hay bales
The possibilities are endless when designing your own inflatable turkey display! Let your creativity go wild and have fun making your yard festive. The neighborhood is sure to gobble it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are inflatable turkey decorations reusable from year to year?
Yes, absolutely! As long as you follow proper storage procedures, quality inflatable turkeys can be set up and enjoyed season after season. Just make sure to fully deflate them and keep them in a dry location when not on display.
How long do inflatable turkeys typically stay inflated before needing to be refilled?
Most quality inflatable turkeys will hold air for 5-7 days at a time, as long as there are no punctures or tears. Expect to check inflation levels and refill as needed about once a week to keep your decor looking its best.
Is it safe to keep inflatable turkeys outside overnight?
Inflatable turkeys are designed to withstand being displayed outdoors 24/7. As long as they are securely staked down, there is no need to take them inside overnight. Be sure to follow the setup directions for optimal safety and stability.
How much space do I need for an inflatable turkey decoration?
While sizes vary, most inflatable turkeys are around 5-6 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide. Make sure you have at least a 6×6 foot area for the turkey itself, plus room to access the cord and blower. Read dimensions carefully when shopping to ensure a proper fit.
What are inflatable turkeys made out of?
Today’s inflatable decorations are typically constructed from durable vinyl, though nylon and plastic varieties are also available. Vinyl is lightweight and flexible yet strong enough to withstand outdoor display. Look for quality stitching and materials when shopping.
Gobble Up Some Holiday Fun with Inflatable Turkeys!
As you can see, celebrating Thanksgiving with inflatable turkey decorations is a quirky, festive way to showcase your holiday spirit. With so many sizes, styles, and setup options to choose from, you can easily create a display that delights your family and puts a smile on neighbors’ faces.
Last Words
This Thanksgiving, spice up your yard with an inflatable turkey yard decoration! Don’t settle for boring fall decor when you can “gobble up” the joy and fun that comes with this delightful holiday tradition. With minimal setup and maintenance required, these DIY Snoopy Thanksgiving Decorations make for easy and fun crafts for kids, offering maximum enjoyment at an affordable price. So let your inner child take over and get creative with your turkey decor, turning your Thanksgiving celebration into a whimsical and memorable experience. From our home to yours, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!
