From illuminating the front porch to lining the roof, these are what Christmas lights are best for outdoors.

Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor

It’s no secret that the South has incredible holiday lights.

Sometimes, we want them right at home.

White House with Blue Accents at Christmas

Credit:Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor

Gary McCoyis a store manager atLowe’sin Charlotte, North Carolina.

What bang out Of Lights Should You Use?

It’s all really a matter of personal preference."

Christmas Exteriors Natural Layers

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

Warm Vs.

Cool White Lights

Often another holiday humdinger is deciding between warm-white lights or cool white lights.

“Pick one kind of white and be consistent with that choice,” McCoy advises.

Christmas Exteriors Merry and Bright

Credit:Monica Buck; Styling: Matthew Gleason

What pop in Of Lights Are Best For Outdoors?

There are a lot of options when it comes to Christmas lights.

Many Christmas lights are compatible for both indoors and outdoors.

Christmas Exteriors Lit with Luminaries

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Caroline Cunningham

Before you hang them, see to it your lights are labeled for outdoor use.

All Christmas lights should be certified by the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) to ensure their safety.

We recommend LED lights because they are safer and last the longest of other types.

Christmas Exteriors Evergreen Glow

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

you’ve got the option to also string more LED strands together.

This eliminates the need for a timer or having to remember to turn the lights on and off.

To hang or attach Christmas lights to your home’s exterior, use plastic gutter hooks or decorating clips.

Idea House Christmas

Credit:Brooke Fornea Styling: Kendra Surface

Avoid hanging lights from shingles to prevent damage.

“There are other trending options like snowflakes and other novelty lighting that can add a special touch.”

Looking for more outdoor Christmas light ideas?

Exterior of quaint cottage decorated for Christmas

Credit:James Ransom

Bonus points for lighting two small trees on each side.

White lights add a classic touch, but multicolor can add a touch of whimsy.

Let this photo inspire you to hang a lit garland along your railing.

James Farmer Exterior

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn

A pair of illuminated trees add a welcome glow.

Highlight Your Home

Go big or go home, right?

This home shines bright with Christmas cheer thanks to outdoor lights wrapped around each column and along the roofline.

What She Did: Backyard

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

The nutcracker figurines add a fun, festive touch.

Unlit wreaths and small trees adorning the windows and entry keep with the simple theme.

The lighting highlights the branches and natural shape of a tree.

Idea House 2023 Exterior Holiday

Credit:Lele Fain Photography

The warm glow also adds soft light to the path leading to the house.

Holiday elements add a festive touch without overwhelming.

Add Subtle Lighting

Brie Williams

Turn those potted trees on your porch into Christmas trees.

Exterior of home decorated for Christmas with dog

Credit:Brie Williams

Touches of red in the decor enhance the holiday theme.

Decorated with lights and ribbon, it’s easy decor that’s ready for any weather.

Alongside the fire at night, the tree’s twinkling lights create a festive mood.

What She Did: Front Porch

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

Go Natural

Tuck an outdoor tree on a bench or table near your front door.

Draw on the natural surroundings for decorating inspiration.

Add in pinecones and feathers, and garnish with burlap ribbon.

Backyard courtyard with outdoor fireplace and Christmas tree

Credit: Marta Pérez; Styling: Vero Designs

Large-bulb Christmas lights add a soft glow.

When adorning your front porch with fresh greenery, group the garlands with a string of lights.

The lighting’s wire blends with the greenery, and at night, you’ll enjoy the warm glow.

Norway Spruce

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn

Simply hang single strands vertically from a patio wall or fence, and let them fall to the ground.

Easy and dramatic, this will be the focal point of youroutdoor entertaining space.

U.S. Department of Energy.Lighting Choices to Save You Money.

Christmas Decorating Ideas: Lights

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

Christmas Decorating Ideas: Twinkling Lights

Credit:Roger Davies