Thanks in large part to social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, more and more British Columbians are going all out with elaborate holiday displays that feature inflatables, electronics, and enough twinkling lights to be seen from the International Space Station.
A survey conducted on behalf of BC Hydro, entitled “Lights for likes: social media driving bigger, brighter displays in B.C.,” found that while the tradition of holiday decorating remains strong — with more than half of British Columbians decorating outdoors this season — many people admit to being motivated by the desire to impress others and create “Instagram-worthy” moments.
“British Columbians love decorating for the holidays, but the way we decorate is changing,” says Susie Rieder, BC Hydro spokesperson. “Holiday displays account for about three per cent of the provincial electricity load during the winter holiday season, and social media may now be contributing to more statement-making displays and higher energy use.”
One-third of the survey respondents said they start decorating before Dec. 1, although that’s the date most people said they get started. About half the respondents said their décor is a mix of old and new pieces, while 46 per cent lean toward nostalgic, sentimental touches.
Social media, however, is reshaping habits: 42 per cent report being more selective about decorations based on how they will look online, 31 per cent aim for a perfectly-themed display, and 23 per cent are adding more decorations than before.
This shift toward more elaborate displays is driving up energy use. Nearly 60 per cent of British Columbians now hang multiple strands of lights, and a quarter go all out with five or more. Almost one in five add plug-in inflatables that run around the clock, and some even blow breakers from the load. Nearly 20 per cent still mix old incandescent bulbs with LEDs, further increasing costs.
Social media isn’t just influencing how people decorate: it’s spilling over into holiday hosting and baking. Nearly a quarter of British Columbians say they take photos of their holiday cooking to share online, 21 per cent consider how dishes will look in photos, 45 per cent admit to choosing recipes because they looked appealing on social media, and 12 per cent feel pressure to make their treats “camera-ready.”
With decorating trends continuing to evolve, BC Hydro encourages residents and businesses to balance creativity with energy efficiency. Here are some tips to help you save energy and money while still making a splash on social media:
Switch to LEDs: Replacing eight strands of incandescent lights with LEDs can save about $40 per season.
Use timers: Set lights and inflatables to turn on only when needed to avoid wasting power.
Be a smart cookie: Small appliances use 70 per cent less energy than a traditional oven, and ENERGY STAR appliances can cut holiday electricity costs.
Upgrade major appliances: Refrigerators and freezers run 24/7. Switching to ENERGY STAR models can save up to $150 over their lifetime, and from now through Jan. 2, 2026 BC Hydro customers can get $75 off select ENERGY STAR refrigerators at www.bchydro.com/deals.
Track usage: Use MyHydro tools at www.bchydro.com to monitor how decorating and cooking impact electricity.
Join Team Power Smart: Reduce your electricity use by 10 per cent and earn $100. Sign up at www.bchydro.com/jointheteam.