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Adding string lights to your outdoor space is a fantastic way to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Whether it’s for a party or just to enjoy a quiet evening outside, hanging outdoor lights can transform your space and add the perfect ambiance.
The Easiest Way to Hang String Lights in Your Backyard
For years I dreamed of having a fire pit area surrounded by twinkling string lights. The problem is, we got the fire pit but with one outlet at the back of our house, hanging string lights in the middle of the yard would be impossible – unless we wanted an extension cord trailing right through our patio. Obviously not a good (or safe) option.
When I came across these solar string lights on Amazon, my next problem because how to string them. I already knew how to hang string lights on a deck using poles, but I didn’t feel like DIYing anything for my yard. After some research, I found these string light poles which completely solved my problem.
I like these string light poles in particular because they are very sturdy thanks to the spiral ground anchor which allows you to screw them deep into the ground, just not tap them in.
Once I had the poles installed, all I had to do was string my solar string lights the way I wanted them, then sit back and wait for the the sun to go down!
What String Lights Are the Best?
The best string lights for your needs might vary, but these solar string lights are great for those without an easily accessible power source.
They are an eco-friendly option that charges during the day and lights up automatically at night. My family loves them!
Oh, and they are plastic so you don’t have to worry about the bulbs smashing and being dangerous in the lawn!
Alternatively, commercial-grade string lights provide a more continuous and powerful light source, if you have an easily accessible outlet.
How Bright Are The Solar Lights?
They’re definitely not as bright as plug in ones, but they do illuminate the space. For a closer look be sure and watch this reel to see the outdoor string lighting in action. To me, the trade off is worth it to not have any cords laying around.
RELATED: Patio Decorating Ideas You’ll Love.
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Hang String Lights
Hanging these lights is SO easy. You just need the string lights, the string light poles and a ladder.
1. Screw the String Light Poles into the Ground
The first step is planning out where you want your lights to hang across your open space. Once you’ve planned your layout, evenly space the light poles around your area and screw them securely into the ground. This is made really easy with the metal rod that comes with them!
You’ll want to start with the base and get that straight and secure into the ground. You’ll know once it’s in secure…if you hit rock (I did!) just move it over a few inches and try again.
Then, you’ll add each section of the pole, screwing them together.
The top section has a hook which is where you’ll string the lights from.
2. Hang the String Lights
After your poles are in place, take your string lights—whether solar-powered or plug-in—and drape them from one pole to another.
Optionally you can use zip ties or cable ties for securing the light strings, ensuring they have enough length to hang with a casual look. How low you drape them is based on your own personal preference.
For plug-in lights, ensure that the string reaches your power outlet or use an outdoor extension cord if necessary. For solar lights, the best way to optimize their brightness is to position the solar panel to ensure it gets ample sunlight for at least 6 hours.
3. Sit Back and Enjoy the Illumination
Once the sun sets, you’ll see the full effect of your newly hung string of lights. Whether you’ve opted for solar-powered or electric string lights, the soft glow will create a magical atmosphere.
It’s the perfect time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ambiance you’ve created!
Final Thoughts
By following these straightforward steps, you can easily enhance your outdoor spaces with the addition of a light strand! This setup not only brightens up your outdoor patio but also adds a touch of whimsy and charm, perfect for any evening.
Whether it’s a DIY project for your back patio or deck, hanging lights are a sure way to bring ambiance to any setting all summer long.
