Best Christmas Lights for Outdoor Trees & Bushes

1. Cascading String Lights

Cascading or icicle light strings hang vertically with a curtain-like effect, making them ideal for hanging from branches. If you want a timeless and elegant design, these are the best lights for trees outside.

2. Easy Wrap LED Light String

If you want to know how to light outdoor trees for Christmas the easiest way, a simple setup makes the biggest difference. Use Easy Wrap LED light strings that boast a classic golden glow and come with adjustable settings via remote control.

3. Twinkly^®

Wrap Twinkly light strings around tree trunks or hang them from branches and use the Twinkly mobile app to customize your very own multicolored and interactive light show. These are also the best Christmas lights for palm trees to give them that retro tropical feel perfect for summer parties.

1. Fairy Lights

If you prefer a subtle glow with a magical effect, fairy light strings are the best shrub lights for Christmas. Simply drape them directly on your shrubbery or cluster them at the base of your bushes to light them from below.

2. Multicolored Light Strings

Cherry light bulbs in traditional Christmas colors give your bushes and shrubbery a holiday feel. This is also the best light for a Christmas cactus as the festive light colors suit the tropical vibe.

1. Lanterns

Lanterns filled with fairy lights make lovely decorative accents. Place groups of them in the bases of trees or shrubs or hang them directly from branches.

2. Lighted Yard Décor

Greet guests with a beautiful outdoor Christmas tree made entirely of lights in your front yard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about decorating your trees and bushes with Christmas lights by reading the answers to common questions below.

Can You Put String Lights on Bushes? 

Yes, you can. However, make sure you use quality string lights specifically for outdoor use to minimize any hazards. Drape lights directly on bushes or shrubs. Plug them in to check if the lights are distributed evenly and adjust accordingly.

What Are the Best Lights To Hang on Outdoor Trees?

Outdoor-safe cascading or icicle lights create a curtain-like effect and give your garden or yard a festive feel all year round. Quality LED light strings are energy-efficient and impart a timeless soft glow. If you want to know how to hang lights for a large outdoor tree for Christmas, read our guide.

Can All LED Christmas Lights Be Used Outdoors?

Choose lights specifically marked as outdoor-safe to avoid potential hazards. Read the product label carefully or refer to the manufacturer’s guide to make sure you are decorating with outdoor-safe Christmas lights.

How Many Christmas Lights Do I Need To Wrap an Outdoor Tree?

The number of lights needed to wrap an outdoor tree depends on its size and your desired level of illumination. As a general guideline, you can use around 100 lights per vertical foot of the tree for a beautiful display.

What Is the Easiest Way To Hang Christmas Lights Outside?

The easiest way to hang Christmas lights outside is to use clips or hooks specifically designed for outdoor use. Start at the base of the tree or along the roofline, secure the lights in place, and work your way around the perimeter for a seamless and hassle-free installation.