If you find yourself reading this, you’re in need of help with Strands, the New York Times‘ intricate word-search challenge.

Strands puts a twist on the classic word search game. Words are formed by connecting letters — whether up, down, left, right, or diagonal, and they can shift direction, resulting in distinctive shapes and patterns. Each letter within the grid contributes to a solution. All solutions are linked by a theme, along with the “spangram,” a unique word or phrase that captures the essence of the day’s theme and stretches across the entire grid either horizontally or vertically.

By providing a vague hint and leaving out the word list, Strands offers a puzzling experience that typically requires more time to complete compared to other games like Wordle and Connections.

If you find yourself at an impasse or pressed for time, we have all the NYT Strands hints for today’s challenge to assist you in advancing at your own desired speed.

NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Celebration time!

The words relate to decoration.

Today’s NYT Strands theme simply described

These words pertain to festivities.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today’s NYT Strands spangram is oriented vertically.

NYT Strands spangram answer for today

Today’s spangram is Decorations.

NYT Strands word list for July 9

• Pennant

• Balloon

• Confetti

• Decorations

• Streamer

• Bunting

Seeking other daily online games? Check out Mashable’s Games page for additional hints, and if you’re in search of more puzzles, Mashable’s offering games now!

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Not the date you’re looking for? Here’s the answer to yesterday’s Strands.