What is a creative, elegant but inexpensive way to decorate your home (outside) for the holidays?

One of the things to remember about the christmas season is that some lights are better than no lights. Places like Dollar General or Family dollar carry some inexpensive lighting. You can ask your family members if they have any extras for the yard. I notice that people are putting up Inflatable snowmen. For this year keeping it simple is a good idea. During next year visit some of your area garage sales. People generally sell off Christmas things. Stores sell decoration at usually half the cost, Walmart, Target, etc. Things like sleighs and reindeer takes a little wood work skill, they add so much flavor to decoration. If you're in a religious mode a nativity scene, small , but noticeable is nice. I wish the best for your choices. Being creative is the fun of it all. It's what makes you feel the joy of the season. They probably have the competition every year. Work toward the idea that you'll be ready for it next year in full swing.

I like Angie's answer and would like to add that in general when decorating a room it's a good idea to start with the rug you want and work from there. Fresh cut flowers are also a very nice addition to the decor. Another suggestion is to read some of the Q+A in Yahoo Answers-discover.

Single strand of lights around the eaves (not those awful dangely strands), wreath on the door, ribbons on trees or light posts. You're celebrating the holidays, not trying to communicate with the space station.

I am always fond of those pretty little classic white christmas lights. So simple and elegant, and I can't imagine them costing too much. I think it would make your house stand out in the sense that it's not so over the top.

Keep it simple. Do simple wreaths on each window, and red ribbons on the mailbox and front door. If you do lights, stay with one color (maybe white) and maybe have candles in each window (not real ones) to light up at night.

Merry Christmas!

Honeycombs from the pine trees. Any evergreen pieces. Red ribbons.