 The ultimate goal of anyone who loves to decorate their yard for Christmas is to set up a full light show that includes music. For some examples of these shows, head over to our videos section. Now that we’ve all seen the shows, and have been amazed at what some people are doing, we’re here to tell you that anyone can do it!
Here are some steps to get your started:
Do your Research.
Before going any further, be aware that setting up a Christmas lightshow as part of your outside Christmas decorations take a lot of time and patience. It can be a great hobby, but it’s not as easy as plugging some lights in flipping a switch. So, if you are ready, keep reading…
What You Will Need:
1. A computer to do the programming.
2. A light controller with multiple channels. This is what controls the lights.
3. A software program to program the light controller. This will define when the lights turn on and off in relation to the music.
4. The lights! This should include not just regular lights, but icicle lights, net lights and yard displays.
| Organize and Plan.
Now you are getting down to the fun part. To make the show work, you will need to sit down with pencil and paper and design your system. Decide what music you want to play (preferable something Christmasy), and where the decorations will be. Your plan should include a drawing of your front yard, with sketches and notes on how the show will work.
Buy Your Equipment and Decorations
Now that you have your plan, you are ready to buy your decorations. This can get expensive fast, spend wisely and stick to your budget.
Test, Test, and Test!
It’s important enough to say again: Test, Test, and Test! The first thing you should do is set up your controller for a single set of lights and make sure you can get it to turn on and off. |
Then get it to turn on and off to music. Then add a second set of lights and make sure you can get that one to turn on and off. See why this takes so long? It can be tedious, but the results are well worth it.
Set It All Up
After everything is programmed, it’s just a matter of setting it up. Hang the lights, set up the displays, plug it in, and enjoy your outside Christmas decorations!
Now, all you have left to do is sip hot cocoa and watch your neighbors scramble to get their decorations looking half as good as yours!
Good Luck!
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