How to Hang Outdoor Christmas Lights Like a Pro

by Ollny Direct on November 24, 2023

Decorating your house with Christmas garden lights can seem like a daunting task when you first get started, but with the right guidance, you can transform your space into a festive holiday wonderland with ease.

In this step-by-step guide, we will guide you through the (not-so-complex) process of hanging twinkling Christmas lights like you are a pro! From the tools you will need to proper hanging techniques, we got you covered this holiday decorating season.

Tools You Will Need

To achieve a professional-looking holiday light display, gather the following tools:

• A sturdy ladder or scaffolding

• Light clips or hooks designed for outdoor use

• Outdoor extension cords

• Waterproof tape

Christmas lights

1. Plan Your Design

Before you start hanging blinking Christmas lights, you will need to visualize and plan which areas outdoors you want to highlight. Consider the roof line, trees, fences, door and window outlines, porch columns, and any other outdoor features you'd like to decorate as potential options. Planning ahead not only ensures that your design will be cohesive and visually appealing but also helps you determine just how many feet of lighting you will need.

2. Calculate the Length of Christmas Lights Needed

Calculating the length of Christmas vacation lights needed for outdoor decoration is essential to ensure a beautifully lit display without any frustrating shortages or excesses. To determine the right length, start by measuring the area you want to decorate. Take note of the total perimeter and any specific areas you'd like to emphasize, such as trees or windows.

Next, consider the type of lighting you plan to use, whether it's traditional string lights, icicle lights, or net lights. Check the product packaging or description for the length of lights per strand and calculate how many strands you'll need to cover your measured area.

Finally, it's a good idea to buy a little extra to account for unexpected twists and turns. With careful measurement and planning, your outdoor Christmas light display will shine brilliantly and stress-free.
Check out our blog post titled "How Many Feet of Christmas Lights for a Tree" if you need help figuring out how many feet of lights to use when decorating trees in your yard.

3. Test the Lights

Do not go through the hassle of setting up your remote control Christmas lights only to find out that there are flaws in them. Make sure the bulbs are working before you install them. Simply plug your lights into any functioning outlet and check for any outages in the bulbs. By doing this before you install them, you can easily catch defects and make any possible bulb replacements.

4. Find a Good Power Source

Before you can install any of your LED fairy lights, you will need to identify the closest power source to where you plan to hang your lights. This may mean that you can utilize an outdoor outlet, or it may result in needing to run an extension cord from the interior out to the exterior of your home. However, if you're using an outdoor extension cord, be sure to wrap the junction with waterproof tape or take other waterproof measures to ensure safety.

5. Hang Lights According to Your Design

Blinking Christmas lights can be strung along a roof line using lightweight plastic clips or hooks. Before putting any weight on a ladder, make sure it is fully extended and locked into place. Begin at the base and work your way up the trees or bushes, spacing the lights evenly. Avoid pulling the lights too tightly, as this can cause strain and potential damage.

Leave enough bulbs to create eye-catching displays around windows and doors. Last but not least, enhance the overall holiday atmosphere by incorporating illuminated patterns and designs or a set of twinkling LED fairy lights.

With proper planning, the right equipment, and a clear understanding of the installation process, you can easily hang Christmas lights like a pro. Prioritize safety throughout the process, be creative with your designs, and most importantly, have fun spreading holiday cheer.

Ready to get started? Explore our wide range of Christmas lights and decorations at Ollny and turn your holiday vision into reality.

Happy Holiday decorating!

➡️ 4 Creative Christmas Light Ideas for Your Holiday Home Décor

➡️ How to Put Lights on a Christmas Tree

BACK TO TOP