4 Creative Outdoor Lighting Ideas

Keep your party out of the dark with one of these illuminating lighting options.

Candles and Torches

Whether you favor ethereal lanterns or dramatic torches, candlelight emits a warm, gorgeous glow at the strike of a match.

What you need to know: Candles can be used just about anywhere, but keep safety in mind. When hanging candles from trees, place them in deep containers so that the wicks are a few inches lower than the rims; this will prevent sparks and flames from blowing out. The handles of the containers should be made of wire and be long enough to keep flames about 12 inches away from leaves and branches. As for torches, it’s not a good idea to use them when kids or pets are present. Reserve them for adults-only gatherings. Candles and torches shouldn’t be left outside; before bringing them in, make sure they’re fully extinguished.

The Lights Pictured

Torches (in ground): Stainless steel; easy to stick in place. Fill with lamp oil (sold at home-improvement stores). Cairo torch, $114, janusetcie.com for stores.

Large white lantern (on ground): Iron punched with tiny pinholes in a floral design. Season 26-inch-tall lantern with candles (included), $60, allmodern.com.

Hanging lanterns (in tree ): Rustic rope detail, wire handles, colored glass. Jar lanterns, $30 for three (yellow, green, blue), uncommongoods.com.

Small lanterns (on left end of table ): 8½ inches high; tealights fit perfectly inside. Gardman Riviera metal-and-glass lanterns. Unfortunately, this item is no longer available.


Looking for more fun summer party ideas? Find creative themes, menu ideas, entertaining shortcuts, and outdoor décor tips.