Edward Johnson: In 1882, Edward Johnson, an associate of Thomas Edison, wrapped a string of electric light bulbs around a tree in his home.
This is considered to be the first instance of using electric lights for decorative purposes.
Christmas tree lights as a product: In 1895, Ralph Morris a telephone technician, worked with a lighting company in New York to create strings of electric light bulbs specifically for Christmas trees and put together a series of light bulb holders into sockets that could be connected in series along a wire leading from the lights to a power outlet.
General Electric: Around the same time, the General Electric Company (GE) launched its first pre-wired electric Christmas lights strings. These lights became enormously popular and were widely adapted for both indoor and outdoor use during the Christmas season.
Early designs: The first Christmas lights sets were relatively limited in both colors and styles. Early string lights bulbs were incandescent, characterized by a warm, orange-yellow glow. As technology advanced, other colors, such as red, green, and blue, became available.
Christmas lights today: Over time, Christmas lights have undergone significant improvements in technology, design, and energy efficiency. Today, these lights come in a vast array of colors, shapes, sizes, and effects, adding a festive touch to homes, streets, and public places during the holiday season.