15 Creative Outdoor String Lighting Ideas for Your Backyard

It’s no surprise that outdoor string lights are gaining momentum in backyard décor. They add an irresistible glow that’s warm and inviting – perfect for outdoor entertaining on summer nights. Plus they’re convenient, lightweight, and easy to hang. Solar-powered styles run electricity-free, so you can set the mood anywhere in the backyard. Read on for a complete list of our favorite outdoor string lighting ideas for the porch, patio, deck, and beyond.

string lights hanging from wood deck railing

Hang lights from the deck railing.

Outline the perimeter of your deck with string lights. New styles even feature an eyelet above each bulb, so they’re easy to hold in place with a nail.

string lights hanging from tree over bench

Drape lights from a tree.

Create a romantic rendezvous for two by loosely draping bulb string lights from the low branches of a tree. It’s an easy way to turn a classic garden bench into an intimate destination.

bulb string lights hanging above patio dining set

No ceiling. No problem.

Cross two strings of lights over a dining set to create the illusion of a ceiling. It makes the space feel cozy and sheds enough light for a late-night dinner.

bulb string lights hanging from branches above wicker bar height dining set

Unique bar lighting.

Vintage-style bulbs create a timeless look when hung from leafy branches. Place wicker bar seating underneath for pendant light appeal.

wood pergola with outdoor fireplace and string lights

Brighten up your pergola or gazebo.

Wrap or drape timbers with string lights of all sizes to create the essence of a starry sky.

Define a space.

Just like area rugs, patio string lights can be used to define a seating area. Outline all four edges of the space with trees or posts at each corner.

Light-up your landscaping.

Drape small string lights over your outdoor plants for an unexpected glow.

Hang from a fence.

If you have a fenced-in yard, make it glow. Hang string lights around the entire perimeter – the style is up to you.

string lights attached to roof line of backyard shed

Line the roof of an out-building.

A simple string of lights hung taught against a roof is classic and simple. It feels like Christmas-time, but better because these lights can stay up year-round.

Zig-zag.

Cover more surface area by hanging string lights in a zig-zag pattern. It’s eye-catching and looks great over a patio or deck.

bulb string lights hanging from patio umbrella

DIY patio umbrella lights.

Put your patio umbrella on double-duty. Loop string lights through the spokes to create a chandelier-like effect once the sun goes down.

covered patio dining area with string lights hanging from ceiling

Use in place of traditional patio lights.

Multiple strands of outdoor string lights can cast enough light to take the place of sconces or ceiling lights – the look is softer, too.

bulb string lights wrapped around ladder hanging above door

Try something rustic.

Wrap string lights around an old ladder and hang from the ceiling like a light fixture.

outdoor dining under trees with string lights

Mix it up.

You can always mix-and-mingle your lighting sources. Different sized bulbs and multiple lighting sources (think candles and chandeliers) make for an extra festive glow.

string lights wrapped around gazebo trellis

Wrap like vines on a trellis.

If you don’t have an actual trellis, any vertical structure will do. Try a support beam, flag pole, or coat rack.

Now that we’ve shed some light on a few easy ways to enhance your outdoor living space with string lights, it’s time to get hanging. Who knew a simple string of lights could add so much to your outdoor decor?

Shop Outdoor String Lights at Hayneedle

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