Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft Brighten Your Outdoor Space

Transform your outdoor space with Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft, delivering warm, ambient illumination perfect for patios, gardens, and entertaining areas. Featuring weather-resistant bulbs and a durable 33-foot cord, these energy-efficient LED lights offer long-lasting brightness and easy installation for year-round ambiance.

Key Takeaways

• Bright 33-ft length: Ideal for large patios or garden spaces.
• Weather-resistant design: Withstands rain, wind, and outdoor conditions.
• Easy installation: Hang with included clips or hooks in minutes.
• Warm ambient glow: Creates inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings.
• Energy-efficient LEDs: Long-lasting and low power consumption.
• Linkable up to 50 ft: Extend coverage by connecting multiple strands.

Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft Brighten Your Outdoor Space

There’s something magical about stepping into a backyard at night and seeing a soft, warm glow dancing among the trees, along the fence, or above the patio. It’s not just about visibility—it’s about mood, ambiance, and that cozy feeling that makes you want to linger a little longer. That’s where the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft come in. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, enjoying a quiet evening with a book, or simply trying to make your garden feel more inviting, these lights can transform your outdoor space from ordinary to extraordinary.

I first discovered these string lights when I was redoing my small backyard patio. I wanted something that was easy to install, looked elegant, and didn’t break the bank. After trying a few different brands (and returning two that were either too dim or too fragile), I stumbled upon the Hampton Bay 33 ft version. At first glance, they looked like just another set of outdoor lights, but after hanging them up, I was instantly sold. The warm white glow, the sturdy construction, and the thoughtful design made them a standout. Now, months later, they’re still going strong—rain or shine—and I get compliments from neighbors and guests all the time.

Design and Build Quality: Built to Last Outdoors

Weather-Resistant Construction

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft is how well they’re built for the outdoors. These aren’t flimsy indoor lights slapped with a “weather-resistant” label. They’re designed specifically for garden and patio use. Each bulb is encased in a durable, shatterproof plastic housing that’s rated for wet locations (UL Wet Listed). That means they can handle rain, snow, and even the occasional splash from a sprinkler or pool.

I tested this firsthand during a sudden thunderstorm. While I panicked about my outdoor furniture, the lights stayed on, undamaged. No flickering, no shorting—just a steady, warm glow. The cord is also heavy-duty, with a thick rubberized coating that resists cracking and UV damage from prolonged sun exposure. After several months of use, I haven’t noticed any fraying or brittleness, which is impressive.

Bulb Spacing and Layout

The lights are spaced approximately 12 inches apart along the 33-foot cord, giving you 20 warm white LED bulbs in total. This spacing strikes a perfect balance—close enough to create a continuous glow, but far enough apart to avoid a “Christmas tree” look. I’ve used string lights in the past where the bulbs were too close together, making the area feel cluttered. These are just right.

The bulbs themselves are Edison-style, with a vintage-inspired filament design. They emit a soft, 2700K warm white light—ideal for creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Unlike some LED string lights that give off a harsh, bluish glow, these feel natural and comfortable on the eyes. You won’t get that “office lighting” effect, which is a huge plus for outdoor relaxation.

Plug-and-Play Simplicity

No tools, no wiring, no electrician required. Just plug them in and you’re good to go. The lights come with a standard 120V plug that fits any outdoor GFCI outlet. The cord is long enough to reach from most outlets to your desired hanging location, but if you need more reach, you can safely connect up to 10 sets end-to-end (as long as the total load doesn’t exceed 210 watts). I connected two sets across my backyard fence and it worked perfectly.

One small but thoughtful design detail: the plug has a built-in fuse for added safety. If a bulb fails or there’s a short, the fuse cuts power to prevent damage. I haven’t had any issues, but it’s reassuring to know it’s there.

Lighting Performance: Warm, Bright, and Energy Efficient

Brightness and Color Temperature

Brightness is subjective, but I’d describe the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft as “perfectly ambient.” They’re not meant to replace your outdoor floodlights or illuminate your entire yard for a football game. Instead, they provide a soft, diffused glow that’s ideal for dining, lounging, or just enjoying a glass of wine under the stars.

The 2700K color temperature is spot-on. It’s warm without being yellow, and it complements natural materials like wood, stone, and greenery beautifully. I hung mine along the edge of my wooden pergola, and the light brings out the grain of the wood in a way that feels organic and inviting. If you’re going for a “boho garden” or “rustic chic” vibe, these lights nail it.

Each LED bulb draws about 0.4 watts, so the entire strand uses just 8 watts—less than a single incandescent bulb. That means you can leave them on all night without worrying about your electricity bill. I often leave them on from dusk until midnight, and my utility bill hasn’t budged.

Durability and Longevity

Hampton Bay claims a 25,000-hour lifespan for the LEDs, which translates to roughly 10 years if you use them 6 hours per night. That’s a bold claim, but so far, the lights have held up. After 6 months of nightly use (including some stormy nights), all 20 bulbs are still working. No burnouts, no flickering.

The bulbs are permanently sealed, so you can’t replace individual ones. While that might sound like a downside, it actually adds to their durability. No moisture can get in, and there are no loose parts to corrode. If a bulb does fail in the future, you’d need to replace the whole strand—but given the low cost and long lifespan, that’s a fair trade-off for most people.

Dimming and Controls

These lights don’t come with built-in dimming, which might be a drawback for some. However, you can use an external plug-in dimmer (compatible with LED loads) to adjust brightness. I tried this with a Lutron outdoor dimmer, and it worked smoothly. The lights dimmed evenly without buzzing or flickering.

Another option is to use a smart plug or timer. I connected mine to a Wi-Fi smart plug, which lets me turn them on/off with my phone or set a schedule. For example, I have them turn on at sunset and off at 11 PM. It’s convenient, energy-efficient, and adds a touch of automation to my outdoor space.

Installation Tips: How to Hang and Arrange Your Lights

Choosing the Right Hanging Method

One of the best things about the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft is how easy they are to install. But to get the most out of them, you’ll want to think about your hanging strategy. Here are a few tried-and-true methods:

• Along a Fence or Wall: Use outdoor-rated hooks or zip ties to attach the lights horizontally. I spaced my hooks about 24 inches apart for a clean, even look.
• Over a Patio or Pergola: Hang them in a zigzag or crisscross pattern for a starry-night effect. Use eye hooks in the beams and connect the lights with S-hooks or carabiners.
• Between Trees or Posts: Create a canopy effect by stringing lights between two trees or posts. Make sure the tension is even to avoid sagging.
• Along Railings or Banisters: Wrap them loosely around wooden or metal railings for a cozy, intimate feel.

Pro tip: Before hanging, lay the lights out on the ground to plan your layout. This helps you visualize spacing and avoid tangles.

Tools and Accessories You’ll Need

You don’t need much, but a few extras can make installation smoother:

• Outdoor Hooks or Eye Screws: Stainless steel or coated metal to resist rust.
• Zip Ties: Heavy-duty, UV-resistant ties work great for temporary or semi-permanent setups.
• S-Hooks or Carabiners: For quick connections between hooks and the light strand.
• Measuring Tape: To ensure even spacing.
• Extension Cord (if needed): Use a heavy-duty outdoor-rated cord with a GFCI plug.

I used a combination of hooks and zip ties for my setup. The zip ties were perfect for attaching the lights to my pergola’s crossbeams, and the hooks gave me more flexibility for adjusting height and tension.

Creative Layout Ideas

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few ideas I’ve seen or tried:

• The “Floating Canopy”: Hang lights in a grid pattern over a dining area using fishing line or thin wire. It looks like the lights are floating in mid-air.
• Vertical Accents: Run lights vertically down a wall or column for a dramatic effect.
• Pathway Lighting: Line a garden path with low-hanging lights or place them in planters along the edge.
• Hanging Globes: Use the lights inside large glass orbs for a unique focal point.

For my space, I went with a classic zigzag pattern over the patio. It’s simple but effective, and it creates a beautiful frame for outdoor dinners.

Where and How to Use Them: Versatility for Every Outdoor Space

Patios and Decks

Patios and decks are the most obvious spot for string lights, and the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft shine here. They define the space, create ambiance, and make your outdoor furniture feel more luxurious. I use mine over my dining table and lounge area, and the difference is night and day.

Tip: Hang them at a height of 7–8 feet above the ground. This keeps the light at eye level when seated, reducing glare and maximizing coziness.

Garden and Lawn Areas

String lights can transform a plain garden into a magical retreat. Try wrapping them around tree trunks, draping them over bushes, or hanging them between trees to create a “fairy garden” effect. I wrapped a few strands around my Japanese maple, and the light filtering through the leaves is absolutely stunning.

For lawn areas, consider using shepherd’s hooks to elevate the lights. This keeps them off the ground and prevents damage from mowing or foot traffic.

Balconies and Small Spaces

Even if you don’t have a backyard, these lights can work wonders on a balcony or rooftop. A 33-foot strand is long enough to wrap around a small space or hang in a U-shape. I’ve seen renters use them on apartment balconies with great success—just use removable hooks or tension rods to avoid damaging walls.

Special Events and Entertaining

These lights are perfect for parties, weddings, or holiday gatherings. They’re bright enough to keep guests comfortable, but soft enough to create a festive mood. I used mine for a small birthday party, and people kept asking where I got them. The warm glow made photos look amazing, too.

Bonus: Since they’re LED, they don’t get hot. That means you can safely hang them near decorations, tablecloths, or even kids and pets.

Pros, Cons, and Real-World Comparisons

What I Love

• Weatherproof and durable: Survived storms, sun, and daily use.
• Warm, inviting light: Perfect color temperature for outdoor relaxation.
• Easy to install and use: No tools or expertise needed.
• Energy efficient: Low power draw, long lifespan.
• Affordable: Great value for the quality.

Where They Fall Short

• No built-in dimming: Requires an external dimmer or smart plug.
• Bulbs aren’t replaceable: If one fails, the whole strand may need replacement.
• Only one color option: Currently only available in warm white (no RGB or color-changing versions).

How They Stack Up Against Competitors

Feature	Hampton Bay 33 ft	GE 24 ft LED String Lights	Brightech 48 ft Solar String Lights
Length	33 ft (20 bulbs)	24 ft (15 bulbs)	48 ft (15 bulbs)
Power Source	Plug-in	Plug-in	Solar
Weather Rating	UL Wet Listed	UL Damp Listed	IP65 (Waterproof)
Color Temp	2700K (Warm White)	2700K (Warm White)	2700K (Warm White)
Lifespan	25,000 hours	20,000 hours	50,000 hours (solar panel)
Price (approx.)	$35–$40	$40–$45	$60–$70

Compared to the GE model, the Hampton Bay offers more length and better weather protection at a similar price. The Brightech solar option is great for off-grid use, but it’s pricier and requires direct sunlight to charge. For most people, the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft strike the best balance of performance, durability, and value.

Final Thoughts: Are These Lights Right for You?

After months of real-world use, I can confidently say the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor space. They’re not flashy or high-tech, but they deliver where it matters: reliability, ambiance, and ease of use.

Are they perfect? No. The lack of built-in dimming and non-replaceable bulbs are minor drawbacks, but they don’t outweigh the benefits. If you want a set of lights that you can hang once and enjoy for years—rain or shine, party or quiet night—these are a solid investment.

Whether you have a sprawling backyard, a cozy patio, or a tiny balcony, these lights can make your outdoor space feel more welcoming, more beautiful, and more *yours*. And isn’t that what outdoor living is all about?

So go ahead—string them up, plug them in, and watch your garden come alive at night. You’ll be glad you did.

Frequently Asked Questions

How bright are the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft?

The Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft feature warm white LED bulbs with a soft, ambient glow—ideal for patios, porches, or garden pathways. While not designed for task lighting, they provide ample illumination for evening gatherings and outdoor decor.

Are the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights weatherproof?

Yes, these lights are UL-listed for wet locations, making them safe for year-round outdoor use in rain, snow, or humidity. The durable shatterproof bulbs and weather-resistant cord ensure long-lasting performance in various conditions.

Can I connect multiple Hampton Bay 33 ft string lights together?

Absolutely! These lights are end-to-end connectable, allowing you to link up to 50 strands (depending on total wattage) for extended coverage. This feature makes them perfect for large yards or commercial spaces.

Do the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights 33 ft come with a timer or remote?

These lights include a built-in timer function (6 hours on, 18 hours off) but do not come with a remote control. The timer is easy to activate via the inline switch on the cord.

How long is the power cord on the Hampton Bay 33 ft string lights?

The lights include a 6-foot lead cord from the plug to the first bulb, offering flexibility in outlet placement. The total length, including bulbs and spacing, is 33 feet with 24 LED bulbs.

Are replacement bulbs available for the Hampton Bay Garden String Lights?

Yes, replacement LED bulbs (model-specific) are available through Hampton Bay or major home improvement stores. The shatterproof bulbs are designed for longevity, but replacements ensure extended use if needed.