Where to Buy Outdoor String Lights for Your Perfect Backyard Setup

Picture this: it’s a warm summer evening, the sun has dipped below the horizon, and your backyard is glowing with soft, twinkling lights strung between trees, along the patio, or above your dining area. The ambiance is cozy, inviting, and just right. That’s the magic of outdoor string lights—they transform ordinary spaces into enchanting retreats. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet night with family, or simply unwinding after a long day, the right lighting can elevate the mood and make your outdoor space feel like an extension of your home.

But where do you even begin when it comes to finding the perfect string lights? With so many options—solar-powered, LED, vintage Edison bulbs, waterproof ratings, and more—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. And that’s exactly why I’ve put together this guide. I’ve spent countless evenings testing, comparing, and researching the best places to buy outdoor string lights, so you don’t have to. From big-box retailers to niche online shops, I’ll walk you through the top sources, what to look for, and how to choose lights that not only look great but also last. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading your current setup, this guide will help you find exactly what you need for your dream backyard.

1. Big-Box Retailers: Reliable, Affordable, and Accessible

When you’re just starting your search, big-box stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Target, and Walmart are fantastic places to begin. These retailers offer a wide range of outdoor string lights, from basic to premium, and their physical locations let you see, touch, and even test products before buying. Plus, their return policies are typically generous, which is a big win if you’re unsure about a specific style.

Visual guide about where to buy outdoor string lights

Image source: digitalmarketer.com

Why Big-Box Stores Are a Great Starting Point

Immediate availability: No waiting for shipping—grab what you need and install it the same day.
Hands-on experience: You can check the weight, brightness, and build quality in person.
Seasonal sales: These stores often run outdoor lighting promotions in spring and summer, making it a budget-friendly option.
Installation help: Many stores offer in-store or online guides for setting up your lights safely.

For example, I once picked up a 48-foot LED string from Home Depot during a Memorial Day sale. The lights were dimmable, had a warm white glow (2700K), and came with a remote control. The best part? They were waterproof—rated IP65—which meant I didn’t have to worry about rain or humidity. At $29.99, they were a steal compared to similar models online.

What to Watch Out For

While big-box stores are convenient, they often carry more generic brands. Some lower-priced models may have shorter lifespans or inconsistent brightness. Always check the lumens (brightness), IP rating (water/dust resistance), and warranty before buying. Also, look for ETL or UL certification—this ensures the lights meet safety standards.

One tip: visit during weekday evenings or early mornings to avoid crowds and get personalized help from staff. Many stores have dedicated outdoor living sections with demo setups, so you can see how the lights look in real-life settings.

2. Online Marketplaces: Endless Variety and Competitive Pricing

If you’re looking for choice—and I mean serious choice—online marketplaces like Amazon, Wayfair, and Overstock are your best friends. These platforms host thousands of outdoor string lights from global brands, small businesses, and even custom designers. You’ll find everything from vintage-style Edison bulbs to color-changing RGB lights, solar-powered options, and even smart string lights that connect to Alexa or Google Home.

Top Online Marketplaces for Outdoor String Lights

Amazon: The king of variety. Search “outdoor string lights” and you’ll get over 10,000 results. Use filters for price, customer ratings (4+ stars), and Prime eligibility for fast shipping.
Wayfair: Great for design-focused buyers. Their curated collections include farmhouse, modern, and boho styles, with detailed product descriptions and 360-degree views.
Overstock: Known for deep discounts on overstocked or discontinued items. You can snag premium lights at 30–50% off.
Etsy: Perfect for unique, handmade, or customizable lights (more on this later).

I recently bought a set of smart RGB string lights from Amazon that connect to my phone via Bluetooth. I can change colors, set timers, and even sync them to music. They were $45—half the price of similar models at Home Depot. The only downside? Shipping took a week, and the instructions were a bit confusing. But for the price and features, I’d do it again.

Tips for Buying Online

Read reviews carefully: Look for photos from buyers—they show real-world performance.
Check return policies: Some sellers have strict rules, especially for custom or international items.
Watch for “budget” brands: A $15 set of lights might seem like a deal, but if 30% of reviews mention flickering or short circuits, it’s not worth it.
Use price trackers: Tools like Honey or CamelCamelCamel can alert you when prices drop.

One pro tip: filter for “weatherproof” or “IP65+” in your search. This ensures the lights can handle rain, snow, and temperature changes. Also, look for connectable strands—many sets let you link multiple strings end-to-end, which is great for large yards.

3. Specialty Lighting Stores: Quality, Durability, and Design

If you’re investing in a long-term outdoor lighting setup—especially for a permanent patio, pergola, or gazebo—specialty lighting stores are worth the extra effort. These retailers focus on durability, design, and performance, offering lights built to last 10+ years, not just one season.

Top Specialty Retailers

1000Bulbs.com: A go-to for commercial-grade lighting. They carry brands like Kichler, Progress Lighting, and Satco, with detailed specs on lumens, color temperature, and wattage.
LightingDirect.com: Offers high-quality LED string lights with 5-year warranties. Their customer service is excellent—I once called about a dimmer issue and had a replacement sent within 48 hours.
Lamps Plus: A hybrid of online and in-store. Their website has a “light finder” tool that helps you match lights to your outdoor space.
YLighting: Focuses on modern and designer lighting. Think sleek, minimalist styles with premium materials like aluminum and tempered glass.

I installed a Kichler LED string from 1000Bulbs.com on my pergola last year. The bulbs are shatter-resistant, the cord is thick and UV-protected, and the warm white light (2700K) is perfect for evening dinners. At $89 for a 50-foot strand, they’re pricier than average, but after a full year of use—including heavy rain and wind—they still work flawlessly.

Why Go Specialty?

Longer lifespan: Many specialty lights last 25,000–50,000 hours (5–10 years of regular use).
Better materials: Look for copper wiring, UV-resistant cords, and shatterproof bulbs.
Design flexibility: You’ll find unique shapes, colors, and mounting options (e.g., clip-on, screw-in, or adhesive).
Expert support: Staff often have lighting design experience and can help you plan your setup.

One caveat: specialty stores can be expensive. But if you’re building a permanent outdoor living space, think of it as an investment. Cheap lights may save you $20 now but cost you $100 in replacements later.

4. Solar and Eco-Friendly Options: Sustainable and Low-Maintenance

If you’re eco-conscious or just hate dealing with extension cords, solar-powered string lights are a game-changer. These lights charge during the day via built-in solar panels and automatically turn on at dusk. They’re perfect for remote areas (like a garden or tree canopy) where outlets aren’t available.

Where to Buy Solar String Lights

REI: Carries high-end solar lights from brands like Goal Zero and BioLite, known for durability and performance.
EcoCentric (eccentric.com): Specializes in solar and energy-efficient outdoor lighting. Their “SunString” line is waterproof, has a 12-hour runtime, and includes a backup battery.
Home Depot & Lowe’s: Both have solid solar options, especially in their “eco-friendly” sections.
Amazon: Search for “solar string lights” and filter for 4+ stars and “IP65+” ratings.

I tested a set of BioLite Solar String Lights from REI last summer. They have 50 warm white LEDs, a 20-foot cord, and a 6-watt solar panel. On sunny days, they ran for 8–10 hours. On cloudy days, about 4–5 hours. The only downside? The panel needs direct sunlight—shade or overcast skies reduce performance.

Tips for Solar Lights

Place the panel in full sun: Even partial shade can cut charging time in half.
Clean the panel monthly: Dust and debris block sunlight, reducing efficiency.
Check battery type: Look for lithium-ion or NiMH batteries—they last longer than standard NiCd.
Consider hybrid models: Some solar lights also have a USB charging option for backup.

One pro tip: if you live in a region with long winters or frequent rain, consider a hybrid solar + plug-in model. This gives you the best of both worlds—solar for summer, plug-in for winter.

5. Custom and Handmade: Unique, Personalized, and One-of-a-Kind

For those who want something truly special, custom or handmade outdoor string lights are the way to go. These lights are often made by small artisans, Etsy sellers, or local craftsmen, and they offer a level of personalization you won’t find elsewhere.

Where to Find Custom Lights

Etsy: The best place for handmade lights. Search “custom outdoor string lights” and filter by “handmade” and “ships from US.”
Local craft fairs or farmers markets: Many artisans sell lights with unique designs—think mason jar bulbs, copper wire wraps, or vintage-style cages.
Custom lighting studios: Some designers (like Lighting by Design or Studio M Lighting) create bespoke setups for homes and events.

I once commissioned a set of copper-wrapped Edison bulbs from an Etsy seller for my sister’s wedding. The lights were strung above the dance floor, with each bulb hand-wrapped in thin copper wire. They were expensive—$120 for 30 feet—but absolutely stunning. The seller even let us choose the bulb shape and cord color.

Pros and Cons of Custom Lights

Pros:
- One-of-a-kind designs
- Personalized details (e.g., monogrammed bulbs, custom colors)
- Support small businesses
Cons:
- Higher price (often $50–$200 per strand)
- Longer shipping times (2–6 weeks)
- Limited warranties

If you’re going custom, communicate clearly with the seller. Share photos of your space, specify the length you need, and ask about weather resistance. Most handmade lights are designed for outdoor use, but it’s always good to double-check.

6. Comparing Your Options: A Quick Reference Guide

With so many choices, it’s helpful to compare the key factors side-by-side. Below is a quick reference table to help you decide where to buy based on your needs:

Retailer Type	Best For	Price Range	Durability	Customization	Shipping Time
Big-Box Stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s)	Quick, affordable setups	$10–$50	Medium (1–3 years)	Low	Same day (in-store)
Online Marketplaces (Amazon, Wayfair)	Variety, smart features	$15–$100	Medium to High	Medium (colors, lengths)	1–5 days (Prime) or 1–2 weeks
Specialty Stores (1000Bulbs, Lamps Plus)	Long-term, high-quality	$50–$150	High (5+ years)	Medium (design-focused)	3–7 days
Solar (REI, EcoCentric)	Eco-friendly, off-grid	$25–$80	Medium (depends on sun)	Low	5–10 days
Custom/Handmade (Etsy, local)	Unique, personalized	$50–$200+	Medium to High	High	2–6 weeks

Use this table as a starting point. Your final choice will depend on your budget, how long you plan to keep the lights, and the look you’re going for. For example, if you want a quick fix for a summer party, big-box stores or Amazon are ideal. But if you’re building a forever patio, specialty or custom lights are worth the investment.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Outdoor String Lights

Choosing where to buy outdoor string lights isn’t just about the product—it’s about finding a partner in your backyard transformation. Whether you’re drawn to the convenience of big-box stores, the variety of online marketplaces, the durability of specialty retailers, the sustainability of solar options, or the uniqueness of handmade lights, there’s a perfect fit for every need and budget.

Remember: the best lights are the ones that last, look great, and fit your lifestyle. Don’t rush the decision. Read reviews, check specs, and—if possible—see the lights in person. And once you’ve made your choice, take your time with installation. A well-planned setup can turn your backyard into a year-round retreat.

So go ahead—string up those lights, pour yourself a drink, and enjoy the magic of your newly illuminated outdoor space. After all, the best memories happen under the stars… and a little bit of twinkle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy outdoor string lights for my backyard?

You can buy outdoor string lights at major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Target, as well as online platforms such as Amazon, Wayfair, and Walmart. These stores offer a wide variety of styles, from vintage Edison bulbs to solar-powered options, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your backyard setup.

What are the best websites to buy weatherproof outdoor string lights?

Top websites to buy weatherproof outdoor string lights include Amazon, Houzz, and Overstock, all of which offer high-rated, durable options with customer reviews. Look for products labeled “UL-listed for wet locations” or “IP65 waterproof” to ensure long-term durability in all weather conditions.

Are there budget-friendly places to buy outdoor string lights near me?

Yes! Stores like IKEA, Dollar Tree, and Costco often carry affordable outdoor string lights, especially during seasonal sales. For local deals, check hardware stores or lighting specialty shops, where you might find discounts on end-of-season inventory.

Where to buy outdoor string lights with unique designs?

For unique designs, explore Etsy, Anthropologie, or boutique lighting brands like Brightech and Brightown. These retailers specialize in handcrafted, vintage, or modern styles, including globe lights, twinkling LEDs, and color-changing smart bulbs.

Can I buy solar-powered outdoor string lights at big-box stores?

Absolutely. Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart stock solar-powered outdoor string lights, especially in their garden or lighting sections. Online, Amazon and Goal Zero offer solar options with features like automatic dusk-to-dawn sensors and extended battery life.

Where to buy outdoor string lights for large outdoor spaces?

For large areas, check commercial lighting suppliers like LightingDirect or 1000Bulbs, which offer bulk discounts and high-lumen commercial-grade string lights. Amazon and Costco also sell long-string packs (50+ feet) ideal for patios, pergolas, or event venues.

Key Takeaways

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