8 Tips for Hanging Holiday Lights

Look at your house critically from the street (or take a photograph) and decide which elements would benefit most from lighting. First, consider highlighting architectural features by stringing lights along eaves, pillars, posts, windows, and doors. Next, look at bushes, trees, window boxes, and planters. Finally, think about appropriate lighting for paths and stand-alone figures.

Why should the front yard have all the fun? “We’re seeing people decorate behind the house,” Marlow says. “It makes sense, because they see the backyard more than the front.” Consider stringing lights along deck railings, decorating a tree—any tree—with lights, or covering out-of-season yard structures.

Try to get an accurate measurement of the number of lights you’ll need. For trees, one way to determine this is to multiply the height times the width, then double that figure. Be aware, however, that the type and size of light strings chosen for the tree will make a difference. To determine how many lights might be sufficient, check out this helpful Lights Calculator. 

Outdoor lights should be plugged into circuits protected by ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). To avoid running cords everywhere, try power stakes—portable devices that bring power where you need it.

Trade hammer and nails for plastic clips that safely secure lighting to everything from shingles and gutters to posts, window frames, and railings. Consider using light stakes to line walkways, driveways, and garden edges with bulbs. These plastic accessories can be removed after the holidays and reused next season.   

Discover and admire beautiful and innovative home architecture, from grand Victorians to quaint cabins and all the styles in between. Take a look at the latest images and inspiration!