Have you decided that you want one of those houses that people drive to so they can see your Christmas decorations? Or do you just want to add some festive Christmas lights inside your house? Either way, before you begin hanging holiday lights, you’ll want to start with paper and pen (or a computer) to plan. 

According to This Old House, the first thing to do is measure how many lights you’ll need. Measure everywhere you want to run lights (windows, doors, along the roofline) so you have the linear feet of string you need. Then when you shop, you’ll be able to figure out how much to buy. Be sure to also note where your outlets are and the distance between the outlets and the lights. 

Make sure you carefully read any manufacturer’s warnings about connecting strings, using extension cords, and limitations on how many strings you can plug into one outlet. You can also look at surge-protected power strips to protect from power surges. 

If you are planning an extra elaborate display, or don’t have outlets within reach, you may want to consider using a generator to power your lights. 

Benjamin Bradley (AKA Mr. Christmas) tells Real Simple that which bulbs you choose is a matter of preference. He says that larger bulbs are sometimes preferred for outside but using lots of small lights can also work well. He adds that mixing the types of bulbs will make your display more interesting. 

Other tricks in your Christmas toolbox may include spotlights and projectors. 

There are many places you can buy your Christmas lights: hardware stores, specialty Christmas stores, big box stores, or online.   

Once you have purchased your lights, you need to decide if you will hang them yourself or hire someone who specializes in Christmas light installation. 

Christmas light installers may be lighting professionals, general handymen or handywomen, contractors, or off-season landscapers.  

Before you book anyone, make sure you get estimates for the work, look at examples of other homes they’ve decorated, and ask for references. You should also make sure you understand what the installer’s insurance covers and what you will be responsible for in case of an accident. 

One last tip! Before anybody climbs on a ladder, plug all your lights in, one at a time, to test them. The last thing you want to do is finish your beautiful Christmas light display, flip the switch, and see holes in the light show! 

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