10 Best Exterior Christmas Lights in 2024 Review & Buyer's Guide

When selecting Christmas lights for outdoor use, it's essential to choose lights that are specifically designed for outdoor conditions. Here are some popular and suitable options for outdoor Christmas lights:
LED String Lights:
LED lights are a popular choice for outdoor use due to their energy efficiency, durability, and versatility. LED string lights come in various colors and can withstand different weather conditions.
C9 and C7 Bulb Lights:
C9 and C7 bulbs are larger than typical Christmas lights and are often used for outdoor displays. They provide a classic look and are available in both incandescent and LED options.
Net Lights:
Net lights come in a grid pattern, making them easy to drape over bushes, hedges, or trees. They provide a uniform and well-distributed illumination for outdoor spaces.
Icicle Lights:
Icicle lights mimic the appearance of hanging icicles and are suitable for outdoor use. They can be hung along the eaves of roofs or from trees to create a festive look.
Rope Lights:
Rope lights are flexible and can be easily shaped to outline architectural features, walkways, or trees. They are available in both incandescent and LED varieties.
Projector Lights:
Projector lights are an easy way to cover large areas with festive patterns and designs. They project images onto surfaces, creating a dynamic and visually appealing display.
Solar-Powered Lights:
Solar-powered Christmas lights use renewable energy from the sun, making them an eco-friendly option for outdoor decorations. They come in various styles, including string lights and pathway lights.
Outdoor Fairy Lights:
Fairy lights are delicate, flexible strings of small lights that can be wrapped around trees, bushes, or outdoor structures. Look for versions designed specifically for outdoor use.
Cluster Lights:
Cluster lights feature multiple smaller bulbs grouped closely together, creating a dense and vibrant illumination. They are suitable for wrapping around trees or creating focal points.
Commercial-Grade Lights:
For a more robust option, consider commercial-grade Christmas lights. These lights are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and are often used for large outdoor displays.
When purchasing outdoor Christmas lights, ensure that they have an appropriate weather-resistant rating (indicated by an IP rating) and are labeled for outdoor use. Additionally, follow safety guidelines for outdoor electrical installations, and use extension cords and timers suitable for outdoor conditions.

What Christmas lights do the professionals use?

Professionals often use a variety of Christmas lights, depending on the specific requirements of the display and the desired effect. Here are some types of Christmas lights that professionals commonly use for large-scale and commercial displays:
Commercial-Grade LED String Lights:
LED string lights are popular for professional displays due to their energy efficiency, durability, and versatility. Commercial-grade options are designed to withstand extended use and adverse weather conditions.
C9 and C7 Bulb Lights:
Larger bulbs, such as C9 and C7 bulbs, are commonly used for professional displays, especially for outlining rooftops, building facades, and creating bold, vibrant displays.
Rope Lights:
Flexible and easy to shape, rope lights are frequently used by professionals to outline architectural features, create intricate designs, or highlight specific elements in a display.
Cluster Lights:
Cluster lights, featuring densely packed bulbs, are employed to provide a high-impact, intense illumination. They are often used for wrapping large trees or creating focal points.
Net Lights:
Net lights are convenient for professionals when covering large surfaces like bushes, hedges, or trees. They offer a uniform distribution of lights for a polished appearance.
RGB and Color-Changing Lights:
Professionals often use RGB (Red, Green, Blue) or color-changing LED lights to create dynamic and animated displays. These lights can be programmed to produce a wide spectrum of colors and effects.
Icicle Lights:
Icicle lights are employed by professionals to create a cascading effect, especially when hanging from eaves or rooflines. They add a decorative and festive touch to large-scale displays.
Projector Lights:
Projector lights are used to project animated patterns, snowflakes, or other designs onto surfaces. Professionals may use multiple projectors to cover large areas with dynamic visuals.
Commercial-Grade Pathway Lights:
For outdoor walkways and paths, professionals may use commercial-grade pathway lights. These lights are durable and can withstand foot traffic while providing a welcoming ambiance.
Customized Designs:
Some professionals create custom lighting designs to meet the unique requirements of specific displays or events. This may involve creating custom shapes, motifs, or arrangements to achieve a distinctive look.
It's important to note that professionals also pay careful attention to safety considerations, such as using outdoor-rated lights, proper electrical connections, and adherence to local regulations. Additionally, the choice of lights depends on the theme, size, and objectives of the display.

What are the Christmas lights trends for 2023?

I can provide some general insights into ongoing trends in recent years that might continue to influence Christmas lights choices in 2023:
LED Technology:
The popularity of LED Christmas lights is likely to continue. LED lights are energy-efficient, durable, and available in various colors and styles. They also offer the flexibility to create dynamic and animated displays.
Smart Lighting:
Smart technology continues to play a role in Christmas decorations. Smart Christmas lights that can be controlled through smartphone apps, voice commands, or home automation systems are likely to remain on trend.
Warm White and Natural Tones:
While colorful displays are always popular, there has been a trend toward warm white and natural tones in recent years. These colors provide a classic and elegant look, and they can complement various decorating styles.
Customized and DIY Decor:
Personalized and do-it-yourself (DIY) Christmas decorations are gaining popularity. People may choose to create custom light arrangements, unique color schemes, or incorporate handmade elements into their displays.
Vintage and Nostalgic Styles:
Vintage-inspired Christmas lights and decorations have been a trend in recent years. People may opt for classic bulb shapes, retro styles, or nostalgic color combinations to evoke a sense of tradition.
Outdoor Projection Mapping:
Projection mapping technology has been used to create stunning animated displays on the exterior of buildings. This trend may continue, with homeowners and professionals using projectors to bring dynamic visuals to their Christmas light displays.
Minimalist and Modern Designs:
Minimalist and modern Christmas decor, including lights, has gained popularity. This trend often features simple and sleek designs, monochromatic color schemes, and a focus on clean lines.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options:
Eco-conscious choices, such as solar-powered lights and energy-efficient LED options, continue to be relevant. People may seek sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives for their Christmas decorations.
To stay updated on the latest Christmas lights trends for 2023, consider checking home and lifestyle magazines, decor blogs, and industry publications as the holiday season approaches. Social media platforms and online marketplaces can also be sources of inspiration for emerging trends and popular styles.

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