I assumed you meant the long strands, so I said last although I've never actually used it...too messy. I do use garlands and those go on at the same time as the lights so that they can be properly balanced.

Of course this year we didn't put out Christmas decorations because my cats are still adapting to the new house and have a nasty habit of climbing things, chewing cords, and eating things they shouldn't. Maybe next year.