How to fix Christmas lights that are half out or don't work at all – and when you're better off replacing them

A string of small fairy lights draped across a bronze bar cart with two paper trees and two drinking glasses filled with champagne in the center.

We have all been there. The tree is up and fluffed, the ornaments have been chosen, we plug in the lights, and then – they don't work. Learning how to fix Christmas lights that have given up the Christmas ghost is a DIY skill worth learning.

Knowing how to fix your faulty, broken, or damaged festive lights quickly without having to replace a whole set will help you get your cozy Christmas decor back on track.