Outdoor Christmas Lights from Big Lots: A Complete Guide: Fast-Track Guide to Finding the Perfect Lights for Your Home

Decorating your home’s exterior with outdoor Christmas lights from Big Lots is a festive way to welcome the holidays and showcase your unique design preferences. Big Lots offers a broad selection of lighting types—from classic string lights to whimsical LED projectors—making it easy to find options that suit both traditional and contemporary tastes. In this guide, you'll discover how to choose the best lights, installation tips, design inspiration, and safety considerations—ensuring your holiday setup is both stunning and secure.

Tips 1:

Choose the Right Type of Christmas Lights

Big Lots supplies a diverse array of outdoor Christmas lights, including LED string lights, net lights, icicle lights, and lighted yard decorations. LED options are popular for their energy efficiency and longevity, while incandescent lights deliver a warm, classic glow. If your home exterior features hedges or shrubs, net lighting provides even coverage with minimal fuss. Don’t forget to explore specialty items like color-changing bulbs or timers for added convenience and style.

Tips 2:

Planning Your Outdoor Light Layout

As a designer, I recommend starting your outdoor display plan with a quick sketch or use a digital layout tool. Outline architectural elements (such as eaves, railings, windows, and walkways) and decide which features you want to highlight. Continuous light strings look clean when outlining rooflines, while clusters or motifs (like stars or snowflakes) add depth and personality to entryways and trees. If you’d like to experiment with different possibilities before installation, try a tool like a floor planner to visualize layouts and color schemes virtually.

Tips 3:

Installation and Safety Tips

Before beginning installation, check all light strands for damaged wires or broken bulbs. Only use products rated for outdoor use, and secure them with insulated clips or hooks instead of nails or staples. Plug lights into GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets to reduce the risk of electrical hazards. Weatherproof extension cords and timers can further simplify setup and daily operation.

Tips 4:

Creative Design Ideas with Big Lots Lights

Mix and match light styles for visual interest—combine warm white string lights with bold multi-color LEDs, or use lighted yard ornaments as focal points. Frame windows and doors with icicle lights, and accent bushes or fences with net lighting. Explore integrating solar-powered or battery-operated options to illuminate hard-to-reach spots without extra wiring.

Tips 5:

Maintaining and Storing Lights After the Holidays

Once the season is over, gently remove and clean your lights, checking again for any wear. Coil strings loosely to prevent tangling and store them in a cool, dry location. Original packaging or dedicated storage reels will help prolong their life and make next year’s setup easier.

FAQ

Q: What types of outdoor Christmas lights does Big Lots offer?

A: Big Lots features a wide range: LED string lights, net lights, icicle lights, projection lights, solar-powered options, and outdoor yard decorations.

Q: Are Big Lots outdoor Christmas lights weatherproof?

A: Yes, their outdoor lights are designed for exterior use, but it’s important to double-check packaging and follow manufacturer guidelines for safety and longevity.

Q: How do I know how many lights I’ll need for my home’s exterior?

A: Measure the spaces you plan to decorate, such as rooflines and porches, and compare with the length of the light strands. A floor planning tool can help you create an efficient and balanced design.

Q: Can I mix different types of Christmas lights from Big Lots?

A: Absolutely! Mixing colors and styles, such as net and string lights, can create a dynamic and eye-catching display.

Q: Do I need any special accessories for outdoor installation?

A: Use outdoor-rated extension cords, timers, insulated clips, and always plug into GFCI outlets for safety.