Easy Holiday Decorating Ideas
The decorations that give the biggest holiday look for the least effort, in the order we would put them up.
A festive home does not require a lost weekend and a ladder. The trick is to start with light, then add a few pieces that do a lot of work.
These are the decorations that give the biggest holiday look for the least effort, in the order we would put them up.
How we chose
Big impact, little effort. Each pick changes how a room or the front of the house feels.
Reusable for years. Pre-lit wherever possible, so the tedious jobs are done once.
Easy for busy homes. LED lighting throughout, with timers and remotes where they help.
Start with light
1000-LED Outdoor Christmas String Lights
One long string with multiple modes covers a porch rail, a tree or a front window with room to spare. Fewer plugs, fewer tangles.
Check price on AmazonOutdoor Laser Projector Lights with Remote
Covers the whole front of the house with moving light from one spot on the lawn, with no ladder and no clips. The remote means you never walk out in the cold to switch it.
Check price on AmazonThe tree
7-ft Pre-Lit Artificial Christmas Tree
Pre-lit means the most tedious job of the season is already done. Measure your ceiling before ordering and leave a few inches for the topper.
Check price on AmazonChristmas Ball Ornament Set (50 pcs)
Enough ornaments to fill a tree in one box, so the tree looks full and coordinated without buying piece by piece.
Check price on AmazonMerry Christmas Tree Skirt (48 inch)
A tree skirt hides the stand and makes a neat base for gifts. At 48 inches it suits most 6 to 7 foot trees.
Check price on AmazonDoor and mantel
National Tree Company 24-inch Pre-Lit Wreath
A pre-lit evergreen wreath makes the front door glow after dark, and it comes back every year looking the same.
Check price on AmazonChristmas Garland with Lights
Drape it along the mantel or a stair rail for instant holiday warmth. Built-in lights mean no separate strand to weave through.
Check price on AmazonGlitter Stocking Holders (set of 4)
Weighted, anti-slip holders keep stockings in place on a mantel or shelf with no nails or hooks.
Check price on AmazonBuyer’s tips
Light first, then decorate. Lights set the mood; ornaments and garland look better once they are glowing.
Use timers. Plug outdoor lights into a timer so they come on at dusk without a second thought.
Buy trees and wreaths early. Popular sizes sell out by early December.
FAQ
When should I put up Christmas decorations?
Many families start the weekend after Thanksgiving. Outdoor lights can go up earlier and simply stay off until then.
Are laser projectors bright enough?
They look best on a plain, light-colored wall after dark.
How do I store decorations so they last?
Coil lights around a piece of cardboard, keep the wreath in a box and pack ornaments in their original tray.