Festoon lights - the best idea for party lighting

The lack of proper outdoor lighting can ruin even the best party, especially when it's held outdoors spaces. e.g., in a garden. Fret not - festoon lights are here to save the day. What are these, what makes them so great, and how to choose the right ones to add characters to your outdoor area?

What are festoon lights and why choose them?

Festoon lights are a heavy-duty type of string lights featuring large, often replaceable light bulb units mounted on a durable cable. These lamps provide significant luminous flux and serve as primary light sources, making them far more functional than standard outdoor fairy lights.

Although at first this question might seem silly, due to the sheer variety of options it's more than valid. The easiest way to describe them would be a type of string with large, often oversized, replaceable bulbs.You've probably seen them as wedding lighting (they're quite common in movies), patio decorations, or simply as outdoor lighting. They sometimes get mistaken as fairy lights, which use far smaller bulbs and provide less warmth.

Why are outdoor string lights great for outdoor parties?

Outdoor string lights are superior for events because they combine high durability with the ability to illuminate large outdoor areas effectively. They offer a unique blend of function and charm, allowing you to transform the atmosphere for your guests.

Both indoor and outdoor festoon lights share traits that make them one of the best lighting options. What are those traits? Well, I'm glad you've asked:

Versatility

As string lights, they give you practically limitless freedom. You can use them to illuminate the peripheries of the party zone, hang string lights between poles, wrap them around a tree, or drape them along a fence.

Variety

Modern festoon lights come in many styles and colours. This is especially true for LED-based lamps - they can imitate classic festoon lights, have many colours like pink, or come in a warm white option.

Safety

LED lights stay cool to the touch and can be safely used near flammable materials like a pergola. They don't contain any toxic materials and are designed specifically for outdoor use.

How to choose the best festoon lights for your outdoor space?

The best choice depends on calculating the total length needed and selecting an appropriate IP rating for year round durability. You must also consider the power source and the specific mood you want to create for your hosting area.

When choosing product units for your outdoor setup, there are a few key areas you should always keep in mind:

Available space

A rather obvious, nevertheless crucial step is estimating the size of the area you want to illuminate. This will determine how long the festoon strings must be and, indirectly, how bright the outdoor lights should be.

Brightness and atmosphere

The brightness of your perfect party lights should match their purpose. For an inviting atmosphere, warm white LEDs are great, while a more general light source is better off being bright to help guests navigate the garden. 

Power source

The mains-powered lights are definitely the most reliable option. If you pick LED ones, you would be able to set them up and use them to your heart's content without worrying about costs. The only downside is the connection process – you might need to check if you need a professional to place the wiring.

Why is IP rating critical for outdoor lighting?

A high IP rating, such as IP44 or IP65, is essential to ensure the lights remain functional and safe during rain or damp conditions. This rating determines how well the lamps and cable are protected against moisture and solid objects

For outdoor festoon lights, aim at IP of 44 or higher - anything less won't be able to deal with changing weather conditions. An optimal choice for permanent garden installations would be an IP of 65. This allows the product to stay outside year round without risk of failure.

Technical Specification Table

Summary: How to select the best party lighting?

The ideal festoon light setup balances technical durability with aesthetic warmth, ensuring the outdoor area is both safe and inviting. By focusing on high IP ratings, energy-efficient LED lamps, and the correct length of the string, you can create a professional atmosphere that will transform any event. Whether you choose warm white for weddings or vibrant colours, quality festoon lights are the most effective product for long-term outdoor use.