It’s no secret things look a little brighter at Christmastime. Perhaps this is because of all the joy and merriment we share with our family and friends. Another illuminating factor, of course, is all the Christmas light displays around town.
You don’t have to channel Clark Griswold and cause a power outage to make the holidays special. You can add your own sparkle without terrorizing your neighbors. Here are 10 simple Christmas light ideas that will help your home dazzle and shine.
Laser Light Projectors
It is not easy getting up on ladders, untangling string Christmas lights, and figuring out how to power everything. Keep it simple this year with projectors. They are easy to set up and use less energy, making them a green choice.
We love this multi-Holiday projector.
Icicle Lights
If you are dreaming of a white Christmas that geographically isn’t in the cards, lights can help you get your wish for a snow day. Consider adding icicle lights to your trees for an Elsa-approved decoration. Never fear for those with chilly conditions: These Christmas lights work even in the cold.
We’re fans of these icicle lights!
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Luminaries
These Christmas lights have a long history, dating back to the 16th century and the Latin American tradition of Las Posadas. A boy and girl reenact Mary and Joseph’s quest for shelter in Bethlehem by knocking on their neighbors’ doors with a procession of followers dressed as angels and shepherds. Their path to the homes is lit with luminarias to ease their passage.
You can honor this history by lighting the way to your front door for your family and friends with luminaries. Traditionally these are paper bags with sand and candles inside, but it is OK to put a modern spin on it (like with batter-powered candles). It is less of a fire hazard that way.
These decorative luminary bags are beautiful.
Net Lights
You can spend hours perfectly weaving your Christmas lights over, under, and through your hedges and bushes, but after all your hard work something will still probably look crooked. Save yourself the heartache and go with net lights. They might be a little more expensive, but they’re totally worth it.
These net lights come in a few different colors!
Pre-Lit Garlands
Across many cultures and religions, garlands are a symbol of eternal life. These evergreen boughs are also just so pretty to look at. Keep it simple and purchase pre-lit ones to add to a Christmas light display. They are the perfect addition for columns on front porches.
We like this pre-lit Christmas garland with pinecones and berries.
Pre-Lit Wreath
Christmas wreaths can also come pre-lit to make your life easier and provide a beautiful addition to your light display. These decorations first came about thanks to Christmas trees — branches were trimmed to shape the tree and the excess was turned into wreaths.
This simple wreath is battery-operated and features a five-function light controller.
Grinch-Themed Lights
If you are really grumpy or overwhelmed this holiday season, you can always use Dr. Seuss’ classic tale of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! as your inspiration. Put up only one string of lights and place a decorative Grinch to look like he is stealing them. This comedic take on Christmas lights is sure to get a chuckle out of people and save you a ton of time.
We love this inexpensive wooden Grinch.
Starburst
No, we are not talking about the candy but another Christmas light display idea. Stars play an important role in the Christmas story. It was the Star of Bethlehem that led the wise men to baby Jesus in the manger. This makes an excellent addition to seasonal decorations. May your stars light the way for all your family and friends.
These snowflake string lights will bring joy to your home.
Giant Christmas Light Balls
If you are feeling crafty and want to make something for your Christmas light display, the last two items on this list are dedicated to you.
First up, we have giant Christmas light balls. You might have seen these out in the wild and thought, “I need that.” This HGTV tutorial will teach you to turn chicken wire and twinkle lights into magic spheres.
Backlit Wooden Decorations
The absence of illumination can also be used in Christmas light displays. When an object is backlit, part of the radiance is blocked, creating a halo effect around the decoration. It makes the object stand out. This HGTV tutorial will teach you how to make a Christmas tree, but the same process can be applied to any shape of your choosing.
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