Christmas Lights Day

National Christmas Lights Day is observed in the United States on December 1 each year. The occasion marks the beginning of the holiday decorating season and encourages people to brighten their homes, yards, trees, and community spaces with festive lights.

History of National Christmas Lights Day

Before electric lighting became widely available, some families decorated Christmas trees with candles. Although the candles created a warm glow, they also presented a serious fire risk.

In 1880, Thomas Edison displayed electric lights outside his laboratory in Menlo Park, New Jersey, during the Christmas season. Two years later, his associate Edward H. Johnson arranged a string of red, white, and blue electric bulbs around a rotating Christmas tree. This display is often described as one of the earliest electrically illuminated Christmas trees.

Electric Christmas lights were initially expensive and required professional installation, so they were available mainly to wealthy households and public buildings. In the early 20th century, manufacturers began selling preassembled light strings, making the decorations more accessible.

Albert Sadacca and his family later helped popularize affordable colored Christmas lights through their lighting business. Their company became part of the National Outfit Manufacturers Association, better known as NOMA, which grew into a major producer of holiday lighting.

Interesting Facts About National Christmas Lights Day

• Candles were used to illuminate Christmas trees before electric lights became common.
• Edward H. Johnson displayed an electrically lit Christmas tree in New York City in 1882.
• Early electric Christmas lights were considered a luxury because the bulbs and installation were expensive.
• Preassembled light strings helped make electric decorations easier to use in private homes.
• NOMA became one of the best-known American manufacturers of Christmas lights during the 20th century.
• Modern LED holiday lights generally use less electricity and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
• Outdoor light sets should be specifically rated for exterior use.

How to Take Part in National Christmas Lights Day

Decorate a Christmas tree, window, balcony, porch, or yard with holiday lights. Check each light string for damaged wires or broken sockets before plugging it in, and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.

You can also take a walk or drive through your neighborhood to enjoy local displays, visit a public lighting ceremony, or work with neighbors to create a coordinated decoration. Choose energy-efficient lights and use a timer to avoid leaving them on unnecessarily.

When Is National Christmas Lights Day in 2026?

National Christmas Lights Day is observed on December 1 each year.

Observations