When Should Christmas Lights Come Down?: A Quick Guide to Holiday Light Removal Timing

Taking down Christmas lights is a question that sparks plenty of debate—should they come down right after New Year’s, or can you enjoy their glow well into January? Traditionally, many people remove Christmas lights on or just after the Twelfth Night, which marks the end of the Christmas season and falls on January 5th or 6th, depending on your tradition. This date is significant in Christian calendars because it signals the transition from Christmas festivities to Epiphany.

However, the “right” time depends on personal preference, local customs, and even weather conditions. For example, some homeowners take advantage of the first period of mild weather after the holidays to make the process safer and more convenient (ice and snow can make the task hazardous). In certain communities—especially those passionate about their winter decorations—lights remain up longer, sometimes through January or even into early February, simply to combat the post-holiday gloom and extend the festive spirit.

Additionally, many neighborhoods, homeowner associations, or local municipalities might have their own guidelines regarding removal of exterior decorations, so it’s wise to check those to avoid any potential fines or complaints.

As a designer, I always recommend viewing your outdoor holiday decor in the context of your home’s seasonal transitions. When it’s time to remove Christmas lights, consider how your outdoor or indoor space will look and feel—can you swap sparkling holiday lights for softer winter lighting, or transition to more subdued decor to maintain warmth and ambiance? For those thinking about future layouts or ways to seamlessly merge festive and everyday design, exploring a room planner can help spark ideas for year-round visual interest, ensuring your space is always uplifting, no matter the season.

Tips 1:

If your lights are located in hard-to-reach places or around landscaping, use the post-holiday removal process as an opportunity to examine outdoor outlets and fixtures for any damage or maintenance needs. This will keep next year’s setup easier and safer, blending practicality with design foresight.

FAQ

Q: Is it bad luck to leave Christmas lights up after the Twelfth Night?

A: Some traditions consider it unlucky to leave holiday decorations up past January 5th or 6th, but for most, it’s a matter of preference and convenience.

Q: Can I leave Christmas lights up all winter?

A: Many people do, especially with white or neutral lights, as they provide warmth and ambiance during darker months. Just check community guidelines and safety requirements.

Q: When do most people take down their Christmas lights?

A: Most people remove lights between New Year’s Day and the middle of January, depending on tradition and weather.

Q: How do I make the transition from holiday to winter decor?

A: Swap bright, colorful lights for softer ones, use candles or lanterns, and add neutral or winter-themed elements to keep your space feeling inviting.

Q: What’s a safe way to remove outdoor Christmas lights?

A: Wait for clear weather, use a sturdy ladder, avoid icy surfaces, and check cords for damage as you take them down to prevent future hazards.