Looking to give your backyard a magical glow without spending a fortune?
You don’t need a hefty budget to create a stunning, cozy atmosphere outdoors. With just a few creative lighting ideas—many of which are DIY or solar-powered—you can effortlessly transform your space into an enchanting oasis perfect for evenings under the stars.
From romantic fairy lights and rustic mason jars to solar solutions and nature-inspired lanterns, we’ve compiled the 29 best cheap backyard lighting ideas that combine beauty, ambiance, and affordability.
✨ Why Lighting Matters in Your Outdoor Space
Outdoor lighting does more than illuminate—it sets the mood. It invites guests to linger, makes your yard feel safer and more spacious, and turns simple evenings into memorable experiences. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, planning a romantic dinner, or just enjoying quiet time outdoors, these budget-friendly ideas will brighten your space—literally and emotionally.
Let’s dive into these brilliant yet affordable ideas!
1. String Lights Galore
String lights are timeless and instantly cozy. Drape them across fences, pergolas, or trees for a dreamy backyard vibe. Choose from globe bulbs, Edison bulbs, or dainty fairy lights. Bonus tip: Use command hooks or zip ties for easy installation.
2. DIY Mason Jar Lanterns
Upcycle mason jars by filling them with tea lights or LED fairy lights. Hang them from tree branches or place them on tables for a soft rustic glow. You can even paint or wrap them with twine for a custom look.
3. Solar Pathway Lights
Perfect for lining walkways or garden beds, these eco-friendly lights charge during the day and light up automatically at night. No wiring, no bills—just clean, soft lighting.
4. Paper Lanterns for a Whimsical Touch
Paper lanterns bring color and playfulness to your outdoor setup. Hang them above your dining area or from low branches. For added magic, place LED tea lights inside. Ideal for party decor!
5. Tiki Torches for Tropical Vibes
Want your yard to feel like a beachside resort? Tiki torches do the trick. Use citronella oil to keep bugs away while you enjoy the flickering flame. Remember to keep them safely spaced out and never leave unattended.
6. Lighted Patio Umbrellas
Upgrade your patio umbrella with built-in LED lights or string lights around the edges. It creates the perfect ambiance for late-night dining or drinks with friends.
7. Upcycled Wine Bottles
Repurpose empty wine bottles by inserting battery-operated fairy lights. Group them together on a table or place them along a garden wall for glowing elegance with zero waste.
8. Fairy Light Jars
A variation on the mason jar theme—fill old glass containers with fairy lights and place them on staircases, walls, or garden beds. You’ll get a sparkling “firefly” effect that adds magic to every corner.
9. DIY Floating Lights
If you have a pond, birdbath, or even a kiddie pool, float waterproof LED lights or glow sticks inside transparent plastic containers. They give a surreal, floating light effect that’s perfect for summer nights.
10. Lanterns on Garden Stakes
Garden lanterns with stakes are easy to place and come in all styles—from Moroccan to modern. Solar versions are popular and budget-friendly, providing reliable light for hours.
11. Glow-in-the-Dark Pebbles
Scatter glow-in-the-dark pebbles along walkways or between stepping stones. They absorb sunlight by day and glow beautifully by night. Great for homes with kids!
12. Garden Spotlights
Highlight trees, sculptures, or water features using adjustable garden spotlights. Opt for solar or low-voltage options for efficiency. You can even use colored bulbs for special occasions.
13. Candlelit Dining Tables
Nothing sets a romantic tone like flickering candles. Arrange tea lights in glass holders or mix tall and short pillar candles on your outdoor table for dramatic effect.
14. Curtain Lights for the Patio
Hang curtain string lights on a wall, fence, or from the edge of your roofline to create a dazzling waterfall of light. Ideal for patios, balconies, or gazebos.
15. LED Strip Lights
Install flexible LED strips under deck railings, steps, or outdoor counters. Choose warm white for subtlety or colorful LEDs for party vibes. Most are waterproof and easy to mount.
16. Balloon Lights
Stuff large balloons with LED lights and hang them from tree branches for a glowing, floating orb effect. Great for birthdays, baby showers, and casual get-togethers.
17. Rugged Steel Lanterns
If your vibe is more industrial or rustic, pick up rugged steel lanterns from a thrift store or hardware shop. They’re weather-resistant, durable, and stylishly minimalist.
18. Nature-Inspired Fixtures
Look for lights shaped like leaves, flowers, or birds. These charming pieces blend seamlessly into your garden landscape while adding soft, mood-setting light.
19. DIY Glass Jar Chandeliers
Cluster several glass jars together using wire or chains and add LED lights. Hang your chandelier over an outdoor table or under a pergola for an upscale, handmade centerpiece.
20. Fire Pit with Built-in Lights
Combine warmth and lighting with a fire pit that includes built-in LED strips. These are ideal for gathering spots and double as both décor and function. Choose a smokeless option for cleaner evenings.
21. Hanging Bulb Lights
Expose your bulbs! Hanging exposed filament bulbs from tree branches or pergolas gives your yard a warm, vintage feel. Choose Edison-style bulbs for extra style points.
22. LED Tree Wraps
Wrap trunks and branches with LED string lights to mimic a magical forest. Use white for a dreamy effect or multicolor for celebration nights.
23. DIY Tin Can Lanterns
Punch holes in old tin cans to create rustic lanterns. Paint them, insert candles or LED lights, and hang or scatter them around the garden.
24. Tabletop Fire Bowls
Make your own fire bowl with a metal bowl, fire-safe rocks, and gel fuel. These create an elegant centerpiece that adds flickering light and warmth to any outdoor table.
25. Solar Wall Sconces
Mount budget-friendly solar sconces to fences or shed walls. They add a sleek touch while increasing visibility and ambiance after dark.
26. Light-Up Garden Sculptures
Some garden statues now include built-in LED lights or glow-painted accents. Choose one that suits your theme—like a glowing owl, moon, or gnome—for whimsical flair.
27. Pathway Rope Lights
Flexible rope lights are perfect for defining edges of paths, decks, or flower beds. Solar-powered versions are waterproof and easy to install without tools.
28. Poolside LED Cubes or Orbs
Floating or ground-placed light-up cubes and orbs add futuristic glow to poolsides or patios. Many come with remote color control for that custom mood-setting experience.
29. Hanging Plant Light Orbs
Combine greenery and glow by hanging planters with built-in or intertwined string lights. These dual-purpose orbs give off a cozy light while adding fresh garden charm.
🪄 Conclusion: Let Your Backyard Shine!
Transforming your backyard into a magical nighttime escape doesn’t have to be expensive. With these 29 cheap backyard lighting ideas, you can personalize your outdoor space, entertain guests, or simply unwind under a warm glow without draining your wallet.
Whether you go DIY with mason jars or splurge a little on solar fixtures, there’s a lighting option for every space, style, and budget.
