outdoor lighting ideas

 

You want to add pop to your garden to enjoy cool nights during those hot summer days? It's been a while since your outdoor space was lit up beautifully. Now, let's transform your garden into a stunning wonderland at night with these 33 breathtaking outdoor lighting ideas. From playful and romantic to vintage and cozy, these lighting options will surely light up your garden and create a magical ambiance that you won't want to miss. Get ready to be inspired and turn your outdoor space into a paradise of your own!

1. Add a pop of color with neon lights 

Top of the outdoor lighting ideas is no other than brightly illuminated neon signs. These lighting fixtures have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their ability to add both retro and modern touch to any space. Custom neon signs, in particular, have become a popular way to add a personal touch to your outdoor space, whether it's a front porch, backyard, patio, or balcony. These signs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be customized with any message or image you desire.

They are a great way to make a statement and set the tone for chilling in your outdoor space at night. Whether you want to showcase your favorite quote, song lyric, or simply your last name, a custom neon sign is sure to add a touch of personality to your outdoor oasis. Interested? Browse this collection to quench your thirst!

LED neon sign for outdoor living space
Wills be adventuring neon sign adds accent to the outdoor space
LED neon sign for garden
find your wild LED neon sign adds shine to the calm greenery walls
LED neon sign hung on window

c'mon grow already LED neon sign adds a splash of color to the window

2. Drape string lights along a fence

 String lights add a warm and cozy ambiance to any outdoor space, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for you to enjoy. String lights can also provide functional lighting, making it easier to navigate your garden at night and ensuring safety.

There are many types of string lights, so make sure to choose LED string lights (battery-operated or solar-powered) to keep fire hazard to a minimum, and enjoy fun-filled evenings outdoor.

string lights on pergola

String lights hung on pergola 

string lights on a fence

String lights hung along a fence

3. Add a rustic touch with lanterns

 Lantern lights can add a vintage charm to your outdoor space and work best in open-concept dining spaces. If you have no trees from which to hang string lights, lanterns can be hung from a pergola, fence, deck railing, or the exterior wall of your home. Lanterns were originally created to protect candles from the wind, and they are a practical choice for outdoor lighting in windy areas. If you live in windy weather, lantern lighting is the best outdoor lighting idea for you. 

"Lantern lighting is a great way to add a touch of warmth and ambiance to any space. Whether you're looking to create a cozy atmosphere in a living room or bedroom, or add some charm to an outdoor patio or garden, lanterns are a versatile and stylish option." - Pottery Barn Design Team at Pottery Barn.

lantern as outdoor lighting

Lantern lights

4. Illuminate your eco-friendly garden 

If you're looking to reduce their energy consumption and lower their electricity bills, while enjoying beautiful litup garden, solar-powered lights are worth considering. They rely on sunlight to charge their batteries, hence not requiring electricity from the grid to operate. 

Solar-powered lights

Solar-powered lights

5. Use floodlights to highlight features 

If safesty is your first priority, this one is for you. Floodlights provide a powerful, broad beam of light that can be directed towards specific features like trees, fountains, statues, or other focal points to accentuate and draw attention to them at night. Additionally, floodlights can be used to illuminate walkways, driveways, and other potentially hazardous areas, making it safer to navigate around the garden at night.

 

floodlights

 floodlights

floodlights illuminate the whole garden

 floodlights illuminate the whole garden

6. Create a tropical atmosphere with tiki torches

Tiki torches can add a tropical, summer vibe to any patio or yard space. They come in a variety of styles. Tiki torches are ultra-versatile and can be set up in different heights and styles to suit your needs. They can be placed along walkways, patios, pools, or gardens to provide a wonderful tropical ambiance.

tiki torches to light the path
tiki torches to light the path

7. Install wall sconces to light up your patio

This next outdoor lighting ideas fixture is great for those who love ample lighting over their patio. Wall sconces can provide ample lighting to ensure that you and your guests can navigate your patio safely at night, especially around stairs or walkways. 

Wall sconces can help create a warm and inviting ambiance in your patio by providing soft and cozy lighting. They can also highlight certain features of your patio, such as architectural details or artwork.

wall sconces

Wall sconces

8. Chilly nights feel warmer with fire pit

Fire pits can be a great way to keep warm and cozy on a chilly night. Whether you're camping or relaxing in your backyard, there are many options available to suit your needs and preferences. There are many fire pits available on the market. If you're looking for a smokeless option, gas fire pits can offer more convenience and safety than traditional wood-burning fire pits.

 

fire pits
fire pits

9. Fill your outdoor with fairy lights 

Fairy lights are very affordable and allow you to create a beautiful outdoor space without breaking the bank. Make sure to choose LED fairy lights  since they're more energy-efficient. Buy these fairy lights and let's give off a warm glow that is comfortable and welcoming to your garden space. 

Fairy lights for outdoor dining

Fairy lights for outdoor dining

10. Install mushroom lights to add colors

Mushroom lights can be used to highlight specific features of your landscaping, such as trees, shrubs, and flower beds. They can also be used to create a warm and inviting ambiance for outdoor gatherings, such as BBQs or parties. So if you're planning to throw a party soon, check this out!

Mushroom lights to add warm and inviitng color to your garden

Mushroom lights to add warm and inviting color to your garden

11. Add a touch of elegance with candles 

Candles add a warm and inviting atmosphere to your outdoor space and help create a relaxing and romantic ambiance. Whether used in lanterns or placed in beautiful candle holders, candles can be a great way to add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.

Mesmerizing candle lit patio

Mesmerizing candle lit patio

12. Use spotlights to draw attention 

Spotlights boast flexibility in terms of placement and direction of light. You can use them to highlight trees, plants, statues, sculptures and other garden features from a variety of angles and distances. If you want to enhance the curb appeal of your home or create a cozy outdoor atmosphere for entertaining, spotlights can be a versatile and effective outdoor lighting ideas solution for your garden.

Spotlights to highlight plants, and sculptures

Spotlights to highlight plants, and sculptures

13. Illuminate stairways with step lights

LED step lights are a popular choice for illuminating outdoor stairways to provide safety and reduce the risk of tripping. They are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and require minimal maintenance. If you have some steps that need illumination, opt for this one!

Stairways are brightly lit to enhance safety at night

Stairways are brightly lit to enhance safety at night

14. Hang chandeliers for a luxurious touch

Hanging chandeliers is a great addition to a garden to add a luxurious touch and create an enchanting outdoor space. When choosing a chandelier, consider the size and style of the fixture, its durability and lighting capabilities, and the placement to achieve the desired effect. You can hang this outdoor lighting fixture from a pergola or covered porch for a luxurious look.

Chandeliers hung from the pergola adds warmth to the open space
Chandeliers hung from the pergola adds warmth to the open space

15. Use pathway lights to line the walkway 

Pathway lights enhance safety by providing illumination, making it easier to navigate around the property at night and reducing the risk of accident. If you're looking for lighting fixtures that provide both practical and aesthetic benefits, consider this one!

Pathway lights to shine the walkway at night
Pathway lights to shine the walkway at night

16. Hang pendant lights from pergola for more drama

This next outdoor lighting ideas are great for those who want to enjoy cozy ambiance outside, especially in late afternoons. Hanging pendant lights from a pergola helps create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you can enjoy throughout the year. Whether you want to create a cozy atmosphere for a romantic dinner or a stylish setting for a party, pendant lights can help you achieve the look you want.

Hang pendant lights from the pergola

Hang pendant lights from the pergola

17. Bollard lights

When it comes to illuminating outdoor spaces at night, bollard lights are an excellent option. They can be used to light up pathways, driveways, or any other areas that require safe and easy access at night. Bollard lights can also be used for decorative purposes, such as accent lighting for trees or water features in your garden.

Cylindrical lights to line a driveway

These cylindrical lights can be used to line a driveway or to mark the boundary of your property.


18. Hang globe lights for a playful touch

Looking for a touch of magic to your outdoor garden, check out this following outdoor lighting fixture! They're popularly used to elevate ambiance in various entertainment places, like restaurants, event venues, and most importantly your garden. Whether you prefer bright and colorful or soft and subtle, there are many ways to incorporate globe lights into your outdoor lighting scheme. Prepare some candles, wine and let the fun begin!

Hang globe lights for a playful touch

Hang globe lights for a playful touch

19. Illuminate water feature with underwater lights

 Underwater lights can transform a water feature into a beautiful and tranquil focal point, enhancing its visual appeal and creating a relaxing atmosphere for homeowners and guests alike.

Underwater lights

Underwater lights

20. Install deck lights to light up the night

Installing deck lights can be a great way to improve the safety, aesthetics, and functionality of your outdoor space at night. By choosing the right type of outdoor lighting ideas, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere while minimizing energy usage and enhancing the overall appearance of your deck.

Deck lights

Deck lights

21. Wrap string lights to create a magical effect

You wanna enjoy romantic and cozy settings every evening with cool summer breeze blowing through your hair? This next outdoor lighting for house is so perfect for you to realise that dream. 

One popular way to use string lights is to drape them across your patio or deck for a cozy, intimate atmosphere. You can also hang them from trees or other structures to create a festive look. For a more enchanting and ethereal effect, you can create a criss-crossing canopy of string lights above your head by using the eaves of your home and an opposite horizontal structure from your deck to support string lights.

"String lighting is a wonderful way to add some whimsy to an outdoor patio or garden. They can be hung in a variety of ways, and can be used to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for entertaining or relaxing." said Joanna Gaines, Designer and Host of HGTV's Fixer Upper

String lights

String lights

22. Add elegance to your outdoor dining area

Candelabras are a type of lighting fixture that can add elegance and sophistication to your outdoor garden space. They are typically tall, candle-holding fixtures with multiple arms that create a dramatic effect when lit. While they are more commonly associated with indoor spaces, candelabras can also be used in outdoor gardens to create a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.

Candelabras

Candelabras

23.Highlight architectural features

They offer an additional layer of security by illuminating your entrance and deterring potential intruders. Plus, they can help create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making your porch a cozy place to relax or entertain guest.

 Install wall-mounted lights

 Install wall-mounted lights 

24. Outdoor umbrella lighting

Outdoor umbrella lighting fixtures add a touch of ambiance to any outdoor space, making it perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening outside. Some outdoor umbrella lights are designed to be energy-saving, which means they can help you save on your energy bills while still providing enough light to enjoy your outdoor space.

Outdoor umbrella lighting

Outdoor umbrella lighting

25. Garden stake lights for a charming touch

Garden stake lights add a beautiful ambiance to your outdoor space. They create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes your garden look cozy and inviting, especially at night. The best thing about garden stake lights is that most of them are solar-powered and do not require any additional electricity to operate. They store energy from the sun during the day and use it to illuminate your garden at night, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective outdoor lighting ideas.

Garden stake lights

Garden stake lights

26. Use landscape lights to highlight plants

Landscape lighting is an excellent way to highlight specific plants in your garden, adding visual interest and dimension to your landscape design. Use uplighting to showcase your plants from below. Uplighting involves placing lights at ground level and directing them upwards towards your plants. This technique can add depth to your garden and emphasize the shape and texture of your plants.

Landscape lights
Landscape lights

27. Add a cozy touch to outdoor 

Table lamps are a fantastic addition to any outdoor gathering. Not only do they provide functional lighting for late-night conversations or dining, but they also add a touch of style and sophistication to the overall ambiance of the space. With a variety of designs and styles available, table lamps can be customized to fit any outdoor decor scheme, from sleek and modern to rustic and cozy. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a large event, table lamps can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that guests will love.

 

table lamps

Table lamps

28. Scatter tea lights

Scattering tea lights throughout an outdoor space at night is a surefire way to create a mesmerizing and enchanting ambiance that will leave guests in awe. The gentle flicker of these small candles is a cost-effective yet impactful way to elevate the overall atmosphere of any outdoor gathering, whether it's a romantic dinner or a festive party. From lining pathways to adorning tables, strategically placed tea lights can create a stunning visual effect that adds a touch of sophistication and intimacy to any outdoor space. So why settle for a dull and uninspired setting when you can easily transform it into a dazzling and memorable experience with the simple addition of scattering tea lights.

Scattering tea lights

Scattering tea lights make great scene for a romantic atmosphere

29. Chaser lights for a playful touch

Looking to add a playful touch to your house landscape this Christmas season? Look no further than chaser lights!

These outdoor lighting ideas fixtures offer a whimsical twist on traditional holiday decor, with their twinkling and chasing patterns that can create an eye-catching display. Not only do they provide a fun and festive atmosphere for your home, but they also serve as a cost-effective solution for outdoor lighting during the winter months. Whether used to highlight specific features of your landscape or to simply add a pop of color, chaser lights are an excellent way to bring some holiday cheer to your outdoor space.

chaser lights

Chaser lights for a playful touch

30. Install recessed lights for a sleek and modern look

 These discreet yet powerful fixtures provide ample lighting while also adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall design. Recessed lights can be strategically placed to highlight specific features of the porch, such as architectural details or decorative elements. They can also create a warm and welcoming ambiance for guests, making the entrance to your home more inviting and memorable.

So, whether you're looking to enhance the curb appeal of your home or simply create a cozy outdoor atmosphere, consider installing recessed lights on your front porch.

recessed lights
recessed lights

31. Line the edges of your patio or deck

These versatile lighting fixtures are not only cost-effective and energy-efficient, but they also add a touch of charm and whimsy to any outdoor space. By lining the edges of your patio or deck with rope lights, you can create a soft and welcoming glow that not only adds ambiance but also enhances the safety of the space. Additionally, these lights come in a variety of colors, allowing you to customize your outdoor lighting to fit your personal style and preferences.

rope lights

Use rope lights 

32. Vintage bulbs for a vintage feel

Vintage bulbs are a beautiful and charming addition to any outdoor gathering. Their soft, warm glow creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for late-night conversations or dining al fresco. With their unique, vintage-inspired filament designs and a range of shapes and sizes available, vintage bulbs can add a touch of whimsy and personality to any outdoor space. They're perfect for creating a nostalgic vibe or enhancing the rustic charm of a garden or patio. Vintage bulbs are a timeless outdoor lighting ideas that can elevate any outdoor gathering and leave a lasting impression on guests.

So if you're looking to add a touch of vintage flair to your outdoor dining area, consider using these charming bulbs to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for you and your guests. From now on, those barbecue gatherings feel more illuminated and vibrant, allowing you to dive deep, and immerse yourselves in the fun after a long week!

vintage bulbs
vintage bulbs

33. Hang festoon lights for a festive touch

Whether you're hosting a party, having a romantic dinner, or just relaxing with friends, festoon lights can help set the mood and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They work particularly well for outdoor events during the holiday season, such as Christmas and New Year's Eve, adding a touch of sparkle and magic to the festivities.

festoon lights
festoon lights
There you have it. We've offered a wide range of options to help you create a magical and inviting outdoor space that you can enjoy at night. Whether you prefer elegant string lights, chic lanterns, or playful neon signs, there's an option for every style and taste. By incorporating these outdoor lighting ideas into your garden or patio, you can transform your outdoor space into a cozy and welcoming retreat that's perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing.
If you're looking for the perfect neon sign to add a touch of charm and personality to your outdoor decor, be sure to check out the top 1 neon sign producer, Zanvis Neon. Their wide selection of high-quality and stylish neon signs will take your outdoor lighting game to the next level. So don't hesitate to explore these outdoor lighting ideas and create a stunning and inviting outdoor oasis that you can enjoy for years to come.