18 Best Decorative Outdoor String Lights to Brighten Your Backyard

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive commission for purchases made through these links. Price at time of publish date may change.
When it comes to curating a welcoming, warm backyard space, there’s one thing you can do that will completely change the ambiance: Lighting. And it’s one of the most affordable backyard ideas, too. You can drape outdoor string lights across your backyard furniture, hang a beautiful string light curtain around your pergola, or spruce up your yard with string lights for trees. The options to get your outdoor oasis glowing are endless.
String lights aren’t just plug-in, either. There are also solar powered lights and battery operated options. When choosing the best string lights for your space, consider your yard layout and your lifestyle needs. For example, if you’re planning on hosting backyard dinner parties, you may want something softer and more decorative. But if you’re hoping for fun and function, string lights that keep your space a little brighter may be better. We found a gorgeous string light option for every look and function, including understated designs, whimsical sets, industrial styles, and more.
01
Solar Outdoor Lit Climbing Ivy Garland
Pottery Barn
$65.00
02
Shaded String Lights
Pottery Barn
$99.00
These delicate shaded string lights are the perfect addition to an outdoor space that leans coquette or a little eclectic. The pretty white metal shade features a wavy design that provides style that will soften your space. Pair a few of these plug-in string lights with cream and wicker furniture for a cohesive look.
03
Terrain Stargazer Garden Lights (Set of 21 Bulbs)
Anthropologie
$78.00
Add a subtle pop of color to the backyard with these pastel cotton candy-colored garden string lights from Anthropologie! The LED globe bulbs are good for outdoor and indoor use, too. Note: Because these bulbs are meant to be completely customizable, you do have to purchase the socket strand separately. But once you have that, you can mix and match any colors from their Stargazer line.
04
Brightech Glow LED String Lights (48 ft)
Amazon
$59.99
Get a chic, modern look in your backyard design with these beautiful Edison bulb string lights that feature a brass accent. The subtle touch of brass provides an elegant look, and blends seamlessly into your space. You can connect up to 20 strands together, too, which is great for larger backyards.
05
Rodolfo 120-Inch String Lights
AllModern
$70.00
06
Alsip 50-Bulb Outdoor Globe String Lights
AllModern
$44.00
07
Brightech Ambiance Pro Solar Powered String Lights
Amazon
$47.99
08
Lantern String Lights with Clear Bulbs and Star Lamp Shades
Amazon
$28.99
09
The Twillery Co. 20.5” Outdoor LED Solar Powered Novelty String Lights
Wayfair
$26.99
10
Patio Umbrella Cordless Outdoor Lighting with Remote
Amazon
$14.99
11
Solhice Outdoor LED Curtain Lights
Amazon
$29.99
12
The Holiday Aisle Trunk Wrap LED Stretch Net Lights
Wayfair
$21.99
13
Outdoor Solar Dragonfly Lights
Amazon
$21.99
14
Bistro String Light Poles and Lights
Wayfair
$169.95
15
Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights
Amazon
$69.99
16
LED Twinkle Star String Lights
Amazon
$19.99
17
Addlon Commercial Grade Outdoor String Lights
Amazon
$49.99
Ultimate Guide to Summer
Get our best decor ideas, shopping recommendations, travel tips, and more!
SUMMER FUN!