As many homeowners know, lights are arguably one of the best and most popular ways to decorate for the holidays. Not only do they add beauty, but their soft glow can illuminate the exterior of your house as well.

The best part about holiday lights is that there are a lot of styles to choose from. Even better, there are just as many ways to style them for a stunning visual display that you, your loved ones and your neighbors are sure to enjoy all season long.

For inspiration on decorating with holiday lights, here are eight magical holiday light decor ideas to try out.

Create a snowy winter wonderland.

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, you can use white holiday lights to outline trees, bushes, window and door frames, and rooflines to make your dreams a reality. The bright lights mimic snow and frost to create a sparkling winter wonderland. And for added charm, you can also hang colored ornaments from tree branches to create a special, whimsical touch.

Light up your entryway.

What better way to welcome visitors than with a stunning illuminated entryway? You can line your walkway with your holiday lights, or place illuminated holiday figures like snowmen, reindeer, or Santa Claus at either end of your walkway to welcome your guests inside.

Make fun shapes.

Many people buy pre-made holiday decor because it’s convenient and affordable. But if you enjoy crafting, you can create fun holiday shapes — i.e. stars, bells, candy canes, etc. — using a string of lights and a few clips to hold it all together. Mount your display onto your wall or fence and you have a striking holiday decoration that is sure to impress.

Bring the holiday cheer indoors.

Who said holiday lights are only for outdoor displays? You can add a touch of winter charm to your interior by draping a string of lights around your banister or along your mantle for a warm and cozy feel.

Create a DIY light curtain.

You can create a DIY light curtain by hanging several strings of holiday lights from a rod or string. A DIY light curtain can be used as a backdrop for dinner parties, family photo shoots, or to add a little extra sparkle to your holiday home.

Light up your dining table.

If you’re planning on hosting for the holidays, make your next dinner party one your guests never forget with a beautiful illuminated centerpiece! To create your own dramatic display, simply place a few battery-operated candles into glass vases to set a stylish table. You can also wrap a string of lights around your centerpiece or nestled between candles, tinsel, greenery, and other holiday decor to promote a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Add pops of color.

Mini holiday lights are a classic choice among decor enthusiasts, but larger bulbs in bright shades are just as fun. You can switch it up by placing large colorful spotlights across your front lawn or garden. This creates beautiful dancing pools of color for an eye-catching display that’s sure to make your house the talk of the neighborhood.

Create a holiday wreath.

For a more low-key light display, try an illuminated holiday wreath to add visual appeal to your home. You can do this by using a long string of lights to form the shape of a classic wreath. Then decorate it with greenery, pine cones, and red ribbon for a festive flair. Hang it up on your front door, garage door, or front window to showcase your new wreath in style.