There’s nothing like Christmas lights to put people in a festive mood. Some individuals wait till Christmas every year, and they’re nearly ecstatic when the holiday finally rolls around. They might also associate these happy feelings with the decorative Christmas lights they hang on the outside of their homes.
Maybe you’re one of these individuals who wants to put up programmable permanent Christmas lights. You can usually do so without too much trouble. In this article, we’ll discuss exactly how you can go about it.
Decide on the Scale of Your Display
First, you’ll probably want to do some research. During this phase, you can look for inspiration online. You might go on message boards on Reddit or similar social media platforms. Try to get advice from fellow Christmas light enthusiasts.
Get the Equipment Ready
Next, you will shop for and purchase all of the necessary equipment. This will include the lights themselves, as well as any additional props you’re going to feature as part of the display.
Buy a Light Show Control System
Purchasing a light show control system will come next. There are many options available. Some are simplistic, while others are more elaborate. You can also find some choices online, while you can buy others in brick-and-mortar store locations.
If you opt for this second option, then stores like Home Depot or Lowes are excellent resources. The employees there will be happy to get you pointed in the right direction.
Choose Software to Go with It
You will also need to buy software that works with the light control system you choose. There are some kinds that work best on a laptop or desktop. You can install others on your smartphone for maximum portability and flexibility.
Design the Light Show
Next, you will design your own unique light show. You will choose the music you would like to play with it as well. This might take a little time and be a system of trial and error. You should probably workshop the lights and music inside before heading outside and setting them up. Try some light and music combos to see which one appeals.
Program the Lights
Next, you’ll program the lights. That’s usually relatively simple, but if you’ve got thousands of lights and an elaborate display, it might take more advanced engineering and tinkering than if you’re going for a scaled-down effect.
Test It Out
Setting up the lights once you have the system programmed is the last step. This is seldom a one-person project. If you can get the whole family involved, that’s great. You’ll probably want help in steadying the ladder when you head up to the roof or along your second-floor windows and gutters, assuming you have some.
If you don’t have family members who can help you, you might enlist your neighbors or some friends. Once you have the whole system set up, it’s time for a trial run. If you installed everything correctly, this is where your hard work pays off.