Just got back from a gallivant around town to proactively replace some all red holiday light strands that I wasn’t able to find anywhere last year because they were totally sold out.  I knew I would need to start early in order to find exactly what I was looking for, but don’t worry… I won’t actually be putting them up until after Thanksgiving at least!

While I with I could do the ultimate outdoor lighting show, I think I’m going to have to stick to the basics for now.  Anyway, after running all over the place trying to find what I was looking for, I’m happy to be able to share my report on what looks to be the popular outdoor decorating fare for the season.  Here’s what’s hot:

Star Shaped Lights - You’ve seen them before… you know, about ten or so stars around 8 to 12 inches across on a chain of string lights.  It appears that these will be more popular than ever this year.

Animatronics Statuary - The wire framed lighted reindeer that move their heads from side to side appear to still be as popular (and affordable) as ever.  I wouldn’t have predicted this myself, but the retailers are apparently considering them to be a safe bet!

Miniature Lighted Christmas Trees - These started to really take off last year.  A pair of the skinny artificial trees, about three or four feet tall each, make perfect accents on either side of the front door.  Or better yet, a dozen or so would look awesome lining the front walkway.

And here’s what’s not hot:

Icicle Lights - Remember the first time you saw these and just had to have them?  Well, they’re fairly commonplace up and down the block now.  However, I can officially report that I didn’t see them for sale anywhere.  Is the trend at a standstill for awhile?

Blower Powered Giant Snowmen - Including Frosty the Snowman, Santa, reindeer, or any other characters you’ve seen represented by the larger than life blow ups over the last few years.  These have been really popular for several years now, but as the novelty has begun to wear off, they’re not available for purchase like they have been previously.

In the end, it’s really just up to each of us to express our own creativity and have a little bit of fun doing it.  But remember just one thing - if you’re looking for something specific, find it now before the selection is all picked over!