Get matched with top holiday decorators in Galena, MO

Aside from a professional light installation company, there are a few other pros who may be able to help you hang Christmas lights. Along with specialty holiday decorators, a handyperson near you can also hang Christmas lights (and can fix that pesky drippy sink while they’re at it). Either way, not all of these pros will offer the service, so be sure to call ahead and get multiple quotes before you hire.

Yes, you can synchronize Christmas lights with music to create a DIY light show. To do this, you will need several components. For hardware, you'll need standard holiday lights, decorations, lawn ornaments, tools, outdoor-rated extension cords, a computer, and a light show control system or digital controller. You will also need specialized software to program the show; popular options include Light-O-Rama (LOR), Vixen, xLights, and Animated Lights. Some, like Vixen and Animated Lights, are considered more beginner-friendly. The process involves using the software to program your lights, choosing an audio method such as speakers or an FM broadcast, and testing the entire system to make sure it's working correctly before the show.

Typically, the most expensive type of Christmas tree is either the Douglas fir or the fraser fir. That being said, lots of different factors can affect what you’ll pay for a Christmas tree including supply and demand, size of the tree, and more. Your best bet is to speak with a pro at your local Christmas tree farm to find the best tree for you.

First of all, don’t shop for bargain lights—often, you’ll end up with a faulty or broken strand, full of dead bulbs or less-than-luminous brightness. Choose quality lights that will last you many years—LED lights have been known to last as long as 100,000 hours. Second, plan ahead and purchase lights for next year’s Christmas during this year’s post-holiday sales. Finally, have a vision and a plan—if you know the measurements of your home, including any windows, doors, and outside bushes you wish to light up, you should be able to only purchase the necessary lights and not more than you need.