Key Takeaways
- Use globe or Edison bulbs for a classic, bright look.
- Try teardrop lights for a modern touch.
- Choose solar lights for an easy, energy-saving setup.
- Add novelty shapes for fun, themed spaces.
- Hang lights overhead to define seating areas.
- Wrap trees or railings for added ambiance.
- Incorporate lantern or fairy lights for softer accents.
- Use path lights to improve visibility and style.
Give Globe String Lights a Try
If you’re looking to brighten up any outdoor living area and you’re all about a classic look, try incorporating globe-shaped outdoor string lights into your porch, deck or patio design. This idea provides plenty of light for outdoor dining or conversation areas and lends a stylish, traditional look.
Consider Teardrop Lights as a Globe Variation
If you want a string light idea with a bit more length and a more modern spin, go for these elongated, teardrop-shaped LED string lights. They’re perfect for hanging from eaves, balcony railings, outdoor plants, shrubs and more.
Adorn Fences, Railings and More With Worry-Free Solar Lights
To outline a fence, porch or deck railings, or even garden walls at night, consider solar string lights and solar deck lights. They’re an affordable option, come in a variety of shapes and colors, and — perhaps best of all — don’t require an external power source, which saves on electricity. Plus, you don’t have to worry about turning them off and on. They’re always ready to shine when you need them.
Embrace Novelty
If you host a lot of barbecues, outdoor game nights or parties with a tiki theme, some fun novelty string lights can add a bit of whimsy to any space you choose, including an outdoor bar, grilling area or children’s play area. There are lots of unique shapes to choose from to suit any décor, theme or personality.
Remember That a Classic Never Dies
By far, Edison string lights are one of the most popular types of backyard string lights, as well as the most beloved vintage bulb shape. Because of their large size, these bulbs offer some of the brightest illumination on dark evenings. Plus, they can fit in easily with virtually any décor theme.
Give Trees a Little Love (and Light), Too
Hanging LED lights, like these pineapple-shaped novelties, from trees makes for an unexpected and impactful look, especially for trees that are large enough to shelter a seating area. This is a great option if you’re looking to create a more intimate area for stargazing or enjoying a nice conversation.
Set the Stage With the Lantern Look
These hemp lantern string lights are the perfect way to add a bit of fun to an outdoor dining area. Their shape and texture evoke a luau theme while offering soft lighting that’s sure to put anyone in the mood to party. These are also nice outdoor string lights for decks.
Use Hanging Lights for a Patio
One of the most striking ways to use outdoor string lights is to create a “ceiling” effect above a sitting area. Overhead lighting will impart a special ambience that encourages conversation and provides some separation, so guests feel like they’re stepping into a living room. To learn how to hang patio string lights, see Create Backyard Ambience With String Lights.
Frame a Walkway with Solar Path Lights
Line walkways, garden beds or driveways with solar path lights to add both style and visibility after dark. These low-profile fixtures are easy to install — just stake them into the ground where you need light — and they don’t require wiring or an external power source. Available in a range of finishes and designs, solar path lights can complement your landscape while helping guide guests safely along paths and entryways.
Personalize to Achieve an Eye-Catching Display
Color-changing string lights allow you to design your own personalized lighting theme so you can achieve the perfect hue and brightness for the occasion. Many smart string lights can be controlled easily from your phone and offer fun effects such as twinkling and blinking.
Add a Bit of Magic With Fairy Lights
Fairy string lights are the perfect way to add a small accent to an outdoor area. Their mini bulbs may not light up an entire area enough to see at night, but they’re ideal for framing and coordinating with other, brighter types of lighting for a nuanced touch.
Ready to Explore Outdoor Lighting Options?
Choosing the perfect lighting for your outdoor lounging and entertaining areas is easy with creative ideas from Lowe’s. Here are some popular lighting categories Lowe’s customers frequently turn to for their patio, deck and porch makeovers.
