Fun and Affordable Ways to Light Up Your Backyard

Backyards come in all shapes and sizes, but one decorative element that makes any outdoor space truly shine is the lighting.

The good news is, you don’t have to splurge on a professional. Whether you want to create a more romantic ambiance or you’re outdoors quite a bit and need extra lighting to work, there is plenty of DIY, affordable lighting options to achieve your desired look. 

We’ve got plenty of creative inspo in this post!

How to decorate with string lights

Spruce up your backyard by adding string lights or fairy lights. Minimal and twinkly, they are perfect for setting the mood at your next big outdoor feast! 

The big question is, how can you strategically place them so that they are functional, safe, and look good?

You can string them over your dining furniture to create a “ceiling” if your patio is uncovered. Keep it simple with basic white bulbs, or throw in a couple of paper lanterns for enhanced decoration.

If your outdoor living area is sheltered by a tree of bushes, consider stringing lights or hanging lanterns from the lowest branches.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to place a metal lantern on your dining table, complete with a candle. An even easier lighting centerpiece- place tiny fairy lights inside a mason jar, twist on the lid. Voila!

Don’t have anything to hang your lights on?

No problem. After you’ve measured your outdoor living area, purchase wood posts, and set them in giant planters. 

The planters serve as the foundation for the posts but opt for local ceramic pottery for weighted support. Plant your favorite flowers on top or layer on garden pebbles for a clean-cut look.

Finally, string lights from post to post over your outdoor area.

Get fired up

A gas-powered fire pit is a pricier addition, but a worthwhile investment that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Nowadays, you can browse all sorts of innovative fire pit designs that take the humble fire and transform it into a multi-purpose piece. 

Many fire pits can double as a coffee table or side tables, so you can use them as furniture during the day and then crank up the fire at night for extra light and warmth.

There are also options for gas fire appliances that can be used strictly for lighting purposes, especially for illuminating your swimming pool. 

Pro Tip: Gas Powered pits are easy to maintain and burn clean. Cover up the mechanics by layering Fire Glass on top. It’s shimmery, unique, and long-lasting.

Eco-friendly backyard lighting

If you are looking for lighting that is functional and environmentally friendly, consider investing in solar-powered lights. 

From security floodlights to footpath lights, you can find a wide variety of products that utilize the power of the sun to deliver glowing results that last for hours. 

You save money on your energy bill and will never have to replace bulbs or batteries!

Pro Tip: High traffic areas in your yard call for a lit garden path. Make it yourself by using landscaping stones, then outline the path with solar lights that stick right into the ground.

How do you like to jazz up your yard with lights? Tell us in the comments!