Do not use a strand of lights that is old or damaged. Following, in list form, are some ideas for Christmas lights. I will also attempt to explain the how-to s of how to hang your lights. Fill a heavy, glass vase will a short strand. This is simply beautiful at night.
Colored glass vases work really well here.
Attach a plug outlet to your porch light. Plug in a strand of Christmas lights. Put the light cover back on. You can purchase the screw on outlet at any hardware store. You also have to make sure that your globe is the appropriate size for the length of the strand.