Decorating Outdoor Pillars For Christmas

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Ho Ho Homes

Maybe it's because there are so many dark hours in winter, but we can't get enough of the dazzling displays that make the holiday season merrier. Though we prefer to appreciate the residences from afar (we wonder how the neighbors feel about all the visitors these homes attract!), here's a sampling of some of the most spectacular outdoor Christmas decorations.

Up, Up and Away

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Up, Up and Away

Reindeer take flight above this home which, if the blue string lights on the ground are any indication, isn't even fully decorated yet! With so many Santas and snowmen around, the figurines in the lit-up nativity scene never get lonely.

Blue Christmas

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Blue Christmas

The azure glow is a head-turning change from the more typical red, green and gold lights on other homes. Wrapping tree trunks in lights is always stunning, but the sapphire tint is especially arresting against the stark-white snow.

Block Party

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Block Party

It's a group effort in the Hampden section of Baltimore, where more than one million lights illuminate quaint row houses. Strings of bright bulbs stretch from the tops of homes across the street as cars and people pass underneath.

Twinkle, Twinkle

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Twinkle, Twinkle

A star of Bethlehem tops off a colorful display that really wows, thanks to multiple mini trees all aglow, a lawn lined with strings of lights and red-and-white peppermint lollipops sweetening the curb.

Give Peace a Chance

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Give Peace a Chance

Even Midas would approve of this golden abode with a glowing message that just may be spotted from space. Illuminated camels out front feel right at home with the desert-yellow lights all around them.

Halo Effect

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Halo Effect

Neat rows of angels add a heavenly glow to this urban oasis, as toy soldiers, snowmen and choir singers stand guard all around them. Sparkling snowflakes and a lit-up hot air balloon complete the crowded scene.

Arc, the Herald Angels Sing

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Arc, the Herald Angels Sing

Inviting cobalt arches entice visitors to walk through this winter wonderland. For extra whimsy, stick-figure snowmen dot the lawn, framed by candle-like lights in the ground.

Levels of Lights

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Levels of Lights

Up on one roof, Rudolph and his pals carry Santa's sleigh in the "North Pole" beside a neighboring rooftop with a Christmas tree, toy soldiers, gingerbread men and more. Farther "south," glowing signs of the season ensure passersby get the message, while candy canes add pops of color to a nativity scene on the ground level.