Skip to main content

21OAK may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Year-round lighting: The best all-weather outdoor string lights we’ve seen yet

Spend all seasons in your backyard with these durable outdoor string lights

Hanging outdoor string lights is a simple, inexpensive hack to transform your patio into an inviting oasis. When the sun sets, it’s time to turn on your string lights and step into your personal beer garden-esque backyard. The warm glow of these handy lights creates a charming mood, so you can enjoy spending more time outdoors all year round. Whether you’re going for a magical aura or a rustic vibe, here are the best heavy-duty outdoor string lights to create a relaxing haven al fresco.

vintage-style outdoor string lights
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Vintage outdoor string lights

Recommended Videos

For a retro look that feels like your favorite gastro pub, vintage string lights are the way to go. With Edison bulbs that give off a golden radiance, these lights create a toasty atmosphere that calls you to sit back and relax. Pair them with Adirondack chairs and chill music for the best happy hour in town.

LED festoon globe lights

If you’re looking for a white glow that feels more festive, LED festoon globe lights offer the right amount of whimsical brightness. With multiple settings, you can use these convenient outdoor string lights as an accent or as your main source of lighting. For larger areas, you can connect multiple strands together to provide the amount of light you need. Perfect for romantic evenings, just set your festoon lights to the right brightness and let the sparks fly.

Solar LED lantern string lights

Nothing amplifies an outdoor celebration like solar LED lantern string lights. These energy savers are perfect for weddings or birthday parties that start in the afternoon and end well into the evening. Look for models that feature steady and twinkling modes for a stylish soiree. The best outdoor solar string lights stay on for up to 20 hours. For superior durability, look for lanterns made from tarpaulin to enjoy season after season.

white fairy lights gathered on table
Dzenina Lukac / Pexels

Fairy outdoor string lights

Homes with large trees or lush gardens look magical with fairy string light decor. These dreamy accessories resemble starry skies that inspire you to lie on the ground and enjoy the evening atmosphere. With their delicate lights, these outdoor solutions are also a favorite for kids’ bedrooms or centerpieces. You can control the level of brightness as well as the twinkling speed to change it up depending on the occasion. 

LED rope lights

With a protective PVC jacket, rope lights offer tiny lights similar to fairy illumination but are more heavy-duty. They have similar brightness to LED, are available in a variety of colors and modes, and are also known for their energy-saving qualities. Wrap them around tree trunks or use them to decorate your outdoor walls to make them pop. While they are more expensive than others, you can be sure that these weather-resistant lights are among the most durable and reliable solutions.

Jar string lights

If you like the modern traditional style, then you’ll love jar string lights. These elegant models give your most important celebrations a laid-back ambiance that makes guests feel comfortable. And if you’re feeling crafty, you can even make these yourself with fairy lights and your own mason jars or wine bottles. These easy-to-make lights are sure to be a conversation starter at your next gathering.

Colorful string lights

Why limit yourself to white lights when you can add a splash of color to your evenings at home? Colorful string lights are favorites among kids, teens, and adults. They turn your backyard into a festive space where everyone feels lively and fun. Some models allow you to set them to one color or multiple shades, so you can change them up as needed. They’re easy to install and provide great accent lighting.

Add brightness to your evenings at home and create a welcoming space with the best outdoor string lights. With so many options and models available, it’s easy to find the right lights that match your sense of style. Consider the size of your space and the atmosphere you’re looking to create before buying your string lights. But most importantly, have fun with them. They’re a functional way to decorate your everyday space while also adding a bit of fun to your special events.

Editors' Recommendations

Deb Goncalves
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Deb's work has appeared on Moms, Babygaga, and WorldAtlas. When she's not working (that's hard to say about a Capricorn), she…
How to remove stripped screws without any hassle
Unlock our best solutions for this common DIY woe
Single screw pointed up on a wood surface

Stripped screws can be a frustrating obstacle that can easily halt the progress of your DIY building or repair project. However, with the right methods and a bit of patience, you can tackle this problem effectively. Let's explore the various techniques for how to remove stripped screws, ranging from simple tricks to more advanced solutions for those severely stripped screws.
How to remove stripped screws: Initial methods to try
Here are a few simple methods to employ when the screws aren't too much of a problem.

Remove the screw with pliers
One of the simplest methods involves using a pair of pliers. Grip the head of the screw firmly with the pliers and slowly turn it counterclockwise. Apply steady pressure to prevent slipping and gradually loosen the screw from its position.
Use the rubber band method
If the screw head has enough grip left, place a rubber band over the head before inserting the screwdriver. The rubber band fills the gaps and provides extra friction, enhancing your grip on the screw. This method works particularly well for smaller screws like those on old wood furniture or screws with shallow stripping.
Try using a different screwdriver
Sometimes, the head of a stripped screw may still have one or two slots that can accommodate a different type or size of screwdriver. Experiment with various screwdrivers in your home toolkit, such as switching from a Phillips to a flathead screwdriver or adjusting the size of the screwdriver to fit the remaining slots.
Next steps: Take your removal method up a notch
Here, we have some more advanced options when the job isn't so simple.

Read more
How to get rid of that hideous water stain on the ceiling and beautify your home
Try this quick stain removal method before jumping into major ceiling repair
Water stain on the ceiling

When you’ve worked hard to keep your home clean and you've decorated your space perfectly, plumbing leaks or flooding can be frustrating. Not only does water destroy drywall, but it also leaves behind nasty stains on your ceiling, creating an eyesore in your otherwise pristine room.

The good news is that you may not have to replace the drywall or take on a huge painting project to get rid of that water stain on the ceiling. Try this easy stain removal method instead and clean up your space without breaking the bank.

Read more
How to clean glass shower doors the right way (say goodbye to streaks)
The natural way to get a sparkling, clear shower door — without all the chemicals
Shower with a glass door

Glass shower doors add a touch of elegance to any bathroom, but they can quickly lose their sparkle because of soap scum, grime, and pesky streaks. Fear not! With the right cleaning techniques and a few simple ingredients, you can restore your glass shower door to its pristine condition. Let's explore effective methods for how to clean glass shower doors without leaving behind streaks.
What is the best thing to use to clean glass shower doors?

When it comes to cleaning glass shower doors, you have two primary options: DIY natural cleaners or commercial glass cleaners. DIY solutions are often cost-effective and environmentally friendly, while commercial cleaners may offer convenience and specialized formulas for tough stains.
White vinegar and dish soap for cutting grime
For a powerful yet natural cleaning solution, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, adding a few drops of dish soap. Spray the solution onto the glass surface and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the grime. Then, scrub gently with a sponge or microfiber cloth and rinse thoroughly with water. However, exercise caution when using vinegar on surfaces like natural stone, as it can cause damage.
Baking soda and dish soap instead of vinegar solution
If you prefer to avoid vinegar, a mixture of baking soda and dish soap can also effectively tackle grime on glass shower doors. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of dish soap, then apply it to the glass using a sponge or cloth. Scrub gently in circular motions, focusing on areas with stubborn stains, before rinsing thoroughly.
Lemon and lemon oil to kick streaks to the curb
Harness the power of citrus to banish streaks from your glass shower doors. Simply cut a lemon in half and rub it directly onto the glass surface, focusing on areas with visible streaks. The acidic properties of the lemon help dissolve residue while leaving behind a fresh, citrusy scent. For added protection against future water marks, lightly coat the glass with lemon oil after cleaning. Your glass won't streak again for a long time!
Tips for keeping your glass shower doors clean and streak-free

Read more