The New York Times - The best holiday decor

How to decorate your Christmas tree like a pro

A string of Christmas lights against a pink background, with three glittery ornaments nearby.

Photo: Michael Murtaugh

So the turkey leftovers are done, you’re staring down a mad dash of work deadlines and holiday parties, and the end-of-year guest frenzy is looming. You know what helps? A little cheer.

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How many lights does your tree actually need? More than you might think→

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Merry and bright

String lights that should last 10 years

These lights offer an unmatched combination of light quality and color accuracy.

A collage of two photos, an overhead view of the Krinner Tree Genie XXL (left) and a closeup view of the Krinner Tree Genie XXL with a tree nested inside (right).

A good tree stand makes a big difference

This stand has been our top pick since 2012. It’s easier than any other tree stand to set up—even when working solo.

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Three holiday gifts that have been wrapped with colorful pages taken from the new york times newspaper.

4 gift wrap alternatives to try

Few things deliver holiday cheer like a gorgeously wrapped present. You don’t need wrapping paper to make ’em look good.

Plus: Is this the year you become a holiday card family?

A holiday card that says 'Happiest holidays, your friends at Wirecutter.'

Illustration: Dana Davis; Photo: Erin Roberts

Sending a card—printed on actual paper! delivered by an actual person!—with a few lovingly curated family photos is a simple way to spark some old-fashioned delight. Of all the photo card services we tested, our favorite offers one of the most straightforward and intuitive design experiences.

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The best holiday photo card service→

One last thing: The best stocking stuffers for kids

A selection of our favorite stocking stuffers for kids, including an orange, lip balm, chalk, a headlamp, and the SushiGo! card game, arranged on a blue background.

Photo: Michael Hession

Our handpicked ideas include a crowd-pleasing card game, luxe lip balm, and our favorite colored pencils. Perfect fun little somethings for stockings, each night of Hanukkah, or however else you and yours may be celebrating this season.

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Petite presents we love→

Season’s greetings.

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The New York Times - The best holiday decor

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