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Christmas Lights & Decorations

The sight of scores of Christmas lights twinkling in the darkness adds an extra sparkle of magic to any family Christmas.  Whether your children learn that your lights symbolise the Star of Bethlehem or illuminate the way for Santa and his reindeer, they'll appreciate the chance to share the spirit of the season with passers by.

From small candles glued onto boughs with melted wax to lanterns and glass balls lit from within, a Christmas tree bejewelled with lighted candles has been a treasured tradition for centuries. 

Then, in 1882, the first Christmas tree was lit by the use of electricity in New York City.  By 1900, department stores started using electric Christmas lights for their Christmas displays. 

Although home interiors have long been illuminated with a Christmas glow, outdoor lighting didn't become popular until the late 1940s. Today, many people deck their homes in flickering fairy lights at Christmas time.  Below are some tips for putting together a spectacular and sparkling display.

• Firstly, think about the look you want to achieve.  The choices are almost endless, but the important thing is to choose your theme and stick with it.  A nativity scene will lose its impact when featured alongside a Homer Simpson light display, for instance!
• Test all lights before starting to assemble your display, and inspect strands for broken or missing bulbs; discard any with worn insulation.
• Plan your display so the plug end is near your electrical source.
• Keep lights plugged in as you work with them so you can see the effect you're creating as you proceed. Rope lights are also more pliable when they're warm.
• Check the packaging on your light strands to see how many you can safely string together.
• Take extra caution when using ladders - ensure your ladder is secure and sturdy before ascending.
• Buy lights and extension cords rated for outdoor use and ensure outdoor outlets are equipped with ground fault interrupter (GFI) switches.
• A complex light display may take some time, so consider gathering friends and family for a helping hand and start a new holiday tradition together.

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