12 Christmas Outdoor Designs That Are Actually Overrated

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If you’re looking to spread joy with your outdoor decorations, that should be great, but not every trend should find its way into your front yard. There are some designs that look like a festive must have, but fall flat. Some of these popular outdoor Christmas decorations may not be as magical as they seem just because they’re overdone, impractical, or just plain tacky.

Before you go carting out the ladder and breaking the bank at your local decor store, there are some of these overrated items you may want to reconsider first. Not all flashy displays are ever worth the effort or the electricity bill. So let’s take a look at some of the Christmas staples you find yourself saying, “was this really worth it?”

Inflatable Santa and Reindeer Displays

Inflatable decorations are nice to look at, but they’re usually more trouble than they’re worth. They are inflated constantly needing the constant power, prone to deflating in bad weather, and can become sloppy very quickly if they’re not maintained.

Laser Light Projectors

Lasers light projectors might sound easy, no hassle display, but they’re rarely up to the hype. The lights tend to be dim or scattered and lack depth and charm as string lights do.

Icicle Lights on Every Edge

Icicle lights have seen their day, but they’re getting a little played out. Maybe they look festive all stringing them along every roof line and window frame, but when it comes time to take them down then the tangled mess they leave behind might be enough to make anyone wish they never bothered with the effort in the first place. That and they don’t always look like the winter wonderland you’d hope, depending on the rest of the yard.

Overly Themed Light Shows

Light shows fed into a sound feed, can be fun for a few orientations, but are quickly off-putting for neighbours and the general public. In practice, these displays involve expensive equipment and complicated programming, and are therefore really a hassle, not a holiday treat. Many neighborhoods even ban them because they generate noise and traffic..

Oversized Ornaments on Trees

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Hanging massive ornaments on outdoor trees might seem whimsical, but they’re often impractical. Windy weather can turn them into missiles, and they rarely stay in place for long. Instead of creating a charming effect, they often look out of proportion and tacky.

Neon-Colored Christmas Lights

Bright, neon-colored lights might grab attention, but they often clash with the warm, nostalgic feel people love about Christmas. These lights tend to create a carnival-like atmosphere rather than a cozy holiday vibe, leaving some viewers feeling more confused than charmed.

Overcrowded Lawn Displays

There’s a fine line between festive and cluttered, and overcrowded lawn displays cross it. Cramming every available character—Santa, reindeer, elves, snowmen—into one yard often looks chaotic rather than cheery. Simplicity can go a long way in creating a more elegant and inviting look.

Blow Mold Figurines

Blow mold decorations, such as plastic Santas and snowmen, may have been trendy in the 1960s, but today they can come across as dated and uninspired. These items often fade in the sun and crack over time, making them a less durable and visually appealing option compared to modern alternatives.

All-White Lighting Schemes

Surprising Items Interior Designers Say You Need to Ditch ASAP! — image credit: deposit photos

While a monochromatic white light display can feel elegant, it’s also become a bit of a cliché. Without any pops of color or creativity, these setups often blend into the background. People might admire them for a second, but they’re not likely to leave a lasting impression.

DIY Pallet Trees

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Using recycled pallets to create tree-shaped displays might sound eco-friendly and crafty, but the end result often falls flat. Unless you’re skilled in woodworking, these DIY projects can look more like scrap wood than festive decor. They’re also prone to weather damage, making them a short-lived addition to your yard.

Oversized Nutcrackers

Giant nutcrackers standing guard by your front door or driveway might seem impressive, but they often end up looking out of place. These statues can be expensive and difficult to store, and they’re not as universally adored as some might think.

Dancing Santa Animatronics

The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974) — Image Credit: Rankin/Bass Productions

Animated Santas that sing, dance, or wave are often more creepy than cute. Their movements can be jerky, and the novelty wears off quickly, especially when the same tune plays on repeat. Many homeowners report these decorations malfunctioning within a season, adding frustration to the holiday chaos.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.