When to turn on your Christmas Lights?

Most people switch on their outdoor Christmas lights on the first Sunday of Advent, which in 2026 falls on 29 November. A survey among Christmas light enthusiasts found that 67 per cent wait until 1 December, while 33 per cent start in mid-November. Nobody chose a date outside those two.

When do people turn on Christmas lights?

In the Facebook group "We who love Christmas lights", members were asked in autumn 2021 when they switch on their outdoor lights:

• 67 per cent turn them on 1 December.
• 33 per cent turn them on in mid-November.

No other answer was chosen. In practice the window is narrow: somewhere between the middle of November and the first days of December.

The first Sunday of Advent

In most of northern Europe the first Sunday of Advent is the traditional marker. It moves each year:

• 2026: 29 November
• 2027: 28 November
• 2028: 3 December

If you want one rule that holds, this is it. The lights go up during the week before, and on they go on the Sunday.

A softer start in November

If the first Sunday of Advent feels late but full Christmas motifs feel early, start with light rather than symbols.

Warm white string lights and icicle lights read as winter lighting rather than Christmas decoration. You can put them up in early November without anyone raising an eyebrow, then add the LED motifs when Advent starts.

That way the house is lit through the darkest weeks, and Christmas still arrives on time.

When should the lights come down?

In Scandinavia the usual answer is the thirteenth day after Christmas, 6 January. In Britain, Twelfth Night on 5 January.

Many people keep the plain string lights up until February and take down only the figures and signs. The reasoning is the same as for putting them up early: it is still dark, and the light is welcome.

Frequently asked questions

Is it too early to turn on Christmas lights in November?

A third of enthusiasts start in mid-November, so no. If you want to avoid the question, use plain warm white lights in November and save the motifs for December.

What does it cost to run outdoor Christmas lights?

Less than most people expect with LED. A 10-metre string light with 100 LEDs uses a few watts. Read our guide on what Christmas lights cost to run.

Can the lights stay outside all winter?

Outdoor lights are marked with an IP rating, such as IP44, and handle rain and snow. Take them down after the season and store them indoors in a dry place so they last.

Should the whole street agree on a date?

No, but it helps. In streets where neighbours light up on the same evening, the effect is far stronger than any single house can manage alone.