Creative Outdoor Lighting Solutions
Having the right outdoor lighting can make or break your patio. As evening sets in and temperatures drops, make sure to illuminate your backyard's best features. There are a plethora of lighting options for you to choose from. However, we have taken it upon ourselves to break them down into four basic categories. Look below for some of the most creative ideas for outdoor lighting we could find on the web. If you find we left anything out, let us know! We're happy to add to the list and would love to see what you have done with your own patio!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creative Outdoor Lighting
Think in four categories: Fire, Candles, Solar, Wired. Start by choosing from fire features, candle accents, solar fixtures, and wired lights. This easy structure helps you highlight your backyard’s best parts. Patio Productions suggests mixing categories for function and mood without overcomplicating the plan.
Yes—used safely, they’re dramatic and social. Play it smart and fire is the coolest light source. Options include tiki torches, gas lamps, gas pots, and ethanol features. They’re simple to install and durable, turning your patio into a lively gathering spot.
Use creative holders for glow and texture. Try paint cans punched with patterns, or upcycle mason jars, wine bottles, baskets, and bins. With a little imagination, candles shift from “indoor-only” to outdoor showstoppers for gorgeous ambiance on any budget.
Lower electric costs, easy to source and install. Solar fixtures reduce energy bills and are widely available at hardware stores. They’re ideal for paths, driveways, and accent zones—no wiring required, just smart placement for balanced illumination.
Alternate the solar lights. Instead of placing lights directly opposite each other, stagger them down the path. Alternating fixtures softens the visual line, feels more natural, and still guides guests safely at night.
Dress string lights with creative shades. Lights come in many shapes and sizes. Make everyday strands eye-catching with clever touches—like the muffin-cup trick shown in our feature—so you can enjoy them beyond the holiday season.
Unique and expressive beats “fancy.” Lighting isn’t about being fancy—it’s about personality. We love seeing your ideas and adding to the list. Show us your creations, and we’ll help refine them into a standout, welcoming backyard glow.
Fire
Please don't burn down your backyard from this tip. If you play it smart, fire is the coolest way to add lots of light to your patio. Even better news is there are a ton of different fire options at your disposal. Whether you use tiki torches, gas lamps, gas pots, or even the new ethanol fire features, simple installs and exception durability make for the perfect social ambiance.
Candles
Candles are not just for the bedroom and bathroom! With a creative eye, candles can be turned into backyard masterpieces. The photo above uses old paint cans with holes strategically placed in a pattern across their side. However, cans are not your only option. In fact, let your imagination run. Wild mason jars, old wine bottles, baskets, and bins all create a great kit to spice up any space.
Solar
Solar is a great way to add light while reducing the cost of your electric bill. A simple trip to your local hardware store can get you a bounty of solar lights in which to illuminate your space. When lighting up your walk or driveways, try alternating the lights to prevent the "landing strip" feel.
Wired
When you think of wired lights, you probably think of Christmas lights. Stop that! Lights come in all shapes and sizes and with some of the creative genius talked about before, you can even make those pesky holiday lights an eye catcher year around. We love the muffin cup idea in the photo above. Remember, lighting isn't about being fancy, it's about being unique and expressive. There are so many different ways to highlight your backyard, we are excited to see what you do with yours!
Author: Michael Ellis is a freelance writer for Patio Productions. When he is not writing, he can be found camping with his dog or mountain biking.
