The Complete Guide to Decorating Your Outdoors for Christmas Cheer
Posted by Catrin Hughes on 8th Dec 2025
Your Ultimate Guide to Bringing Christmas Cheer Outdoors With Lights, Figures, and Seasonal Decorations
Christmas is the perfect excuse to sprinkle a little extra magic around your home, and what better place to start than outdoors? From twinkling lights to cheerful figures, there are so many fun ways to turn your garden, porch, or driveway into a festive wonderland. Whether you’re dreaming of bold, colourful displays or something a little more frosty and magical, I’ve pulled together some ideas to get you inspired this year.
String Lights: Set the Scene with Sparkle
No Christmas display is complete without twinkling lights. Icicle hanging lights draped along gutters or balconies create a frosty, wintry look. Festoon lights, with their vintage charm, work beautifully when wrapped around trees or strung across fences. Regular string lights can be used almost anywhere, from bushes and shrubs to railings, offering a timeless festive glow. For something more dramatic, curtain lights spread across a wall or garage door can become a dazzling backdrop. All these styles come in cool white, warm white, and multicoloured options, so you can choose a look that feels elegant, cosy, or playful.
Light Figures: Bring Characters to Life
Light-up figures are a wonderful way to bring character and personality to your outdoor space. A glowing Christmas tree can act as a striking centrepiece, while reindeer displays instantly add a touch of magic and tradition. Snowmen always bring a smile, especially for children, and acrylic figures shine brightly with a vibrant glow that lasts through all weather. For something a little different, infinity lights add a modern twist with their dazzling reflections. When combined, these figures can turn your garden into a festive scene that feels straight out of a Christmas story.
Door & Entryway Decorations: Create a Warm Welcome
Your front door sets the tone for the whole home at Christmas, so it’s the perfect place to add a little festive magic. A wreath instantly brings a welcoming touch, whether you prefer the look of traditional greenery or something more modern with a frosted finish. You could add ribbons for a pop of colour, or even dress the doorway with bows for a more dramatic effect. And don’t forget the little details—something as simple as a Christmas doormat, paired with lanterns or small potted trees, can make every arrival feel warm and magical.
Path Decorations: Guide the Way
Lighting up your walkway is a simple way to make your outdoor display both beautiful and inviting. A softly glowing path instantly feels magical, guiding visitors to your door and adding to the overall atmosphere. You can keep it elegant with subtle lights or have a little fun with festive touches like candy cane stakes or even a playful “Santa Stop Here” sign. However you choose to do it, these little details help tie your garden and home together, creating one seamless festive look.
Styling Your Outdoor Space with a Theme
Choosing a theme is a wonderful way to give your decorations a polished and cohesive look. By carrying your chosen style through your lights, figures, and entryway details, you can create a magical display that feels beautifully thought out. Here are a few inspiring theme ideas to bring your outdoor space to life:
Traditional Feel
You might lean into tradition with rich reds, greens, and golds that bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
Winter Wonderland
Perhaps you prefer the icy elegance of a Winter Wonderland with shimmering whites, silvers, and blues that make your home feel like a frosted fairy tale.
Multicoloured
For something a little more playful, a Multicoloured theme full of bold colours can add a whimsical charm that’s impossible to miss.
Decorating your outdoor space this Christmas is all about spreading joy and creating a warm welcome. Whether you prefer subtle elegance or a show-stopping display, the right combination of lights, figures, and themed decorations will make your home shine bright throughout the festive season.
For more festive inspiration and seasonal tips, make sure to follow us on Instagram @Charliesstores and Facebook. Also, feel free to share how you have created your own winter wonderland and some of your decorating tips and tricks for a magical Christmas for you and your guests. From all of us at Charlies, we hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.