Festoon Lighting: The Ultimate Guide to Stylish, Versatile Outdoor Lighting

If you’re dreaming of cozy backyard evenings, rustic weddings, or a touch of vintage charm, festoon lighting might be exactly what you need. These iconic string lights—think bulb-on-a-cable style—have made a major comeback in both residential and commercial spaces. From garden parties to café courtyards, festoon lights are a simple yet striking way to add ambiance, character, and warmth to any setting.

What Is Festoon Lighting?

Festoon lights are typically string lights with evenly spaced large bulbs, suspended between posts, trees, or structures. They often have E27 screw-in bulbs, giving you the freedom to use a range of colours, shapes, and styles.

Unlike fairy lights, which are smaller and more delicate, festoon lighting makes a bold visual impact—perfect for open spaces, events, and anywhere you want that relaxed, glowing atmosphere.

 

Why Festoon Lighting Is So Popular?

1. Versatile Style

Whether you’re going for rustic charm, industrial edge, vintage vibes, or modern minimalism, festoon lights can match the mood. Use clear bulbs for a soft café glow or opt for colored or frosted ones for more playful energy.

2. Weather-Resistant

Outdoor festoon lighting is often IP-rated (typically IP44 to IP65), meaning it’s water-resistant and built to withstand wind, rain, and sun. Perfect for year-round outdoor use.

3. Customizable Bulbs & Layouts

Most festoon lights have E27 bulb sockets, so you can swap out the bulbs to suit your theme:

• Warm white or amber for cozy vibes
• Cool white for a cleaner, modern look
• Filament-style LEDs for vintage aesthetics
• Coloured bulbs for parties or festive events

Plus, you can get dimmable versions, smart bulbs, or even solar-powered options.

4. Easy to Install & Expand

Most festoon kits are modular, with connectable ends, so you can extend them as needed—from a cozy patio to a full backyard or commercial setup. They’re typically plug-and-play, requiring no fancy wiring.

 

Where You Can Use Festoon Lighting

Festoon lights are ridiculously versatile. Here’s where they really shine:

• Outdoor Entertaining Areas

String festoon lights across patios, pergolas, or garden fences to create a warm, inviting space for entertaining guests.

• Campsites & Glamping

Add a whimsical, cozy touch to tents, campers, or outdoor cooking areas—great for off-grid setups with battery or solar-powered festoons.

• Cafés, Bars & Restaurants

Festoon lighting brings an intimate, welcoming glow to dining areas—especially outdoor terraces and beer gardens.

• Weddings & Events

A staple in wedding lighting, festoon lights are perfect for draping between trees, over dance floors, or above banquet tables.

• Around the Home
• Garden paths
• Balconies
• Driveways
• Around hot tubs or fire pits
• Christmas and holiday decorating

 

How to Customize Festoon Lighting

Festoon lighting is highly customizable, which makes it fun to play with. Here’s how you can tailor it to your space:

 

1. Choose Your Bulbs

LED vs. Incandescent: LEDs are more energy-efficient and last longer. Incandescent give off a warmer, softer light but use more power.

Clear vs. Frosted: Clear bulbs give that sharp glow and visible filament look; frosted bulbs diffuse the light for a softer ambiance.

Vintage Filament: Adds a retro charm and pairs beautifully with rustic or industrial themes.

Smart Bulbs: Control colours, brightness, or timers via your phone or voice assistant.

 

2. Pick the Right Length & Spacing

Shorter strings (5–10m) are great for balconies or railings

Longer runs (20m–100m+) work best for spanning courtyards or big outdoor areas

Bulb spacing typically ranges from 30cm to 100cm. Tighter spacing = more light and drama

 

3. Mounting Styles

Straight line: Clean and modern

Zigzag or criss-cross: Classic event lighting style

Draped/swagged: Romantic and relaxed

Wrapped around trees or beams: Adds dimension and texture

 

4. Power Options

Mains-powered (plug into wall): Brightest and most reliable for long-term use

Solar-powered: Great for eco-conscious or remote areas

Battery-powered: Ideal for portability, camping, or events

 

Installation Tips

Use hooks, zip ties, or wall plugs for secure mounting

Use tension wire for long spans to prevent sagging

Check the IP rating for outdoor use—look for IP44 or higher

Always calculate total wattage and ensure your power source can handle it

Use a dimmer switch, if possible, for mood control

 

Final Thoughts: Add Magic with Festoon Lights

Festoon lighting is more than just practical illumination—it’s about setting a mood, transforming a space, and creating moments. Whether it’s for a cozy night in the garden, a wedding under the stars, or a bustling café patio, these lights bring instant atmosphere.

They’re easy to install, customizable to your heart’s content, and suitable for almost any setting. Once you hang them up, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.