There’s something effortlessly charming about festoon lights. With their warm, nostalgic glow, they can instantly transform any outdoor space into a magical setting—be it for a summer barbecue, a cosy garden retreat, or a stylish event. But getting them hung properly, safely, and attractively takes a little planning. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to hang festoon lights with confidence and flair.

Why choose festoon lights?

Before we dive into the “how”, let’s talk about the “why”. Their soft glow creates a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for:

• Garden gatherings and BBQs
• Wedding receptions or special celebrations
• Balconies, terraces, and patios
• Cafés and outdoor dining spaces

They’re weatherproof, reusable, and energy-efficient (especially with LED options). Plus, they can be used year-round—not just for Christmas!

Tools and materials you will need

Hanging festoon lights doesn’t require fancy equipment. Here’s a basic checklist:

• Festoon lights (outdoor-rated if used outside)
• Fixings: hooks, cup hooks, screw eyes or wall plugs (depending on surface)
• Guide wire or cable (recommended for long runs or permanent setups)
• Cable ties or carabiner clips (for temporary setups)
• Drill (if attaching to hard surfaces like brick or wood)
• Measuring tape and pencil
• Ladder

Planning the layout

Before you get the drill out or unbox your lights, take a few moments to plan your setup. A well-thought-out layout will not only save you time and hassle during installation but also ensure your lights look balanced, safe, and professionally hung.

Measure the distance

Start by deciding where you want your lights to begin and end. This could be across a patio, between trees, along a garden fence, or over a dining table. Use a measuring tape to calculate the total length needed, including any dips or swoops in the design.

A common mistake is forgetting to account for slack when you install festoon lights. If you’re going for a draped or scalloped look, allow an extra 10–15% in length to achieve the right amount of curve without tugging the lights taut. It’s always better to have a little extra cable than fall short mid-hang.

Check the power source

Locate your nearest outdoor power socket. If you’re using plug-in festoon lights, make sure the cable can reach the socket, or use a weatherproof extension lead rated for outdoor use. Protect connections with an outdoor junction box or use a drip loop—a small downward loop in the cord—to prevent rainwater from running down into plugs.

No nearby power? No problem. Battery-powered or solar festoon lights are ideal for remote corners of the garden, and many modern options still deliver a strong, warm glow with excellent battery life.

Design your look

There’s more than one way to style festoon lights, so think creatively! Do you want:

• A straight, taut line for a modern, clean look?
• Soft drapes between fixed points for a relaxed, romantic vibe?
• A zig-zag across a garden for maximum coverage and brightness?

Use chalk, masking tape, or small markers to visualise the pattern before committing. If you’re decorating for an event, consider sketching your plan on paper and factoring in where furniture or décor will go. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are goldmines for visual inspiration.

How to hang festoon lights – installation

Depending on your space and surface types, there are several ways to hang festoon lights. Here are the most common methods, with practical advice for each.

Hanging between walls or posts

This is one of the most secure and long-lasting methods, especially for patios or courtyards.

Step-by-step:

1. Screw heavy-duty wall hooks, cup hooks, or eye bolts into both ends of your desired span.
2. Thread a guide wire or steel cable between the hooks and pull it tight. This will carry the weight of the lights and prevent sagging, especially if you have a long run.
3. Clip or wrap the festoon lights around the wire using zip ties, carabiners, or built-in hooks.
4. Check for even spacing and adjust before switching them on.

Pro tip: Guide wire kits are inexpensive and essential for permanent or semi-permanent setups.

Attaching to trees

Trees are great natural anchors—but they require care.

Step-by-step:

1. Identify sturdy branches or trunks that can bear a little weight.
2. Use tree-friendly hooks or wrap the cable gently around the branch using soft ties or adjustable straps.
3. Avoid pulling the cable too tightly to reduce stress on both the tree and the lights.

Safety note: Never screw directly into a tree unless it’s deadwood or you’re working with a professional arborist.

Mounting on fences or railings

Perfect for linear runs along the perimeter of your space.

Step-by-step:

1. Install cup hooks, screw eyes, or staple nails along the top of the fence or railing at regular intervals.
2. Attach the lights securely with clips or ties.
3. If you want more height, fix short poles or bamboo canes to the fence and mount the lights slightly above the line of sight.

This approach works well for back gardens, decks, and outdoor seating areas where you want the lights to trace a border.

Using poles or stakes

For wide-open spaces like lawns or large patios without nearby anchor points, this is your best bet.

Step-by-step:

1. Use metal or wooden poles (at least 2.4 metres tall) and drive them firmly into the ground using a post driver or mallet.
2. Space them evenly, ideally every 2–3 metres, depending on the span and the weight of your lights.
3. Attach eye hooks or rings to the top of each pole.
4. Run your guide wire or festoon cable through each hook, securing as you go.

Optional: Use decorative planters filled with gravel or concrete bases for a movable lighting option.

Final touches

Once your festoon lights are in place, take a step back and wait for dusk to fall—this is the best time to see how your setup truly performs. Switch the lights on and walk around the space to inspect from different angles. Look out for:

• Uneven dips or overly tight stretches that disrupt the visual flow
• Loose cable ties or fixings that might need tightening
• Bulbs that flicker or don’t light up—replace them promptly to maintain consistency
• Tangled wires or twists that can be gently straightened for a cleaner appearance

If you’ve used a draped design, make sure each curve hangs gracefully and at a similar height to the next. This small detail can dramatically improve the overall symmetry and elegance of your display.

To enhance the atmosphere further, think about layering your lighting. For example:

• Fairy lights along railings or in hedges can create a soft, sparkling backdrop
• Lanterns or candle-style lights on tables add intimacy and depth
• Spotlights or solar garden lights on the ground can help guide guests and highlight features

Don’t forget comfort and practicality. If your lights are part of an outdoor dining or seating area, check that they’re not shining directly into people’s eyes—angle bulbs away or use softer wattages where needed.

A well-finished setup should not only look beautiful but also feel effortless, inviting, and safe. Take pride in the details—they’re what turn a nice lighting job into an unforgettable one.

Conclusion

Festoon lights are one of the easiest ways to elevate your outdoor space and create an inviting atmosphere all year round. Whether you’re lighting up a party or simply enjoying a quiet evening outdoors, the right setup makes all the difference. With a clear plan, the right materials, and a few practical tips, you’ll have a lighting display that’s both functional and stunning. Now all that’s left to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the glow.