Whether you have a large and rambling or a small and intimate backyard, you can transform it into your own private respite. One easy way to infuse the space with warmth and ambiance is with the right lighting elements. 

Depending on your budget, you can either choose and install the lighting yourself or save time by hiring a professional landscaping lighting design service to do the work for you. Collaborate with the landscapers by sharing your backyard design vision for the best results. 

There are many ways that you can illuminate your backyard, from hanging lanterns to installing in-ground lights and everything in between. If you go with traditional white lighting, you can easily change the colors to reflect specific holidays and occasions, such as red and green for Christmas, for a festive feel. 

Here are some backyard lighting design ideas to consider:

1. String Lighting 

Keep things simple yet elegant with strategically hung string lighting, which comes in a variety of lengths. If you want to wrap the lights around trees, poles, or deck railings, choose smaller bulbs spaced closely along the string. As another option, hang strings of larger, cafe-style bulbs from tree to tree over a patio, fire pit, or deck for a quaint, outdoor eatery vibe.

You can also string the lights around the perimeter of a backyard fence to create a cozy feel, which is perfect while hosting get-togethers with close friends and family members. Secure the strings into place using a large staple gun. 

2. Hanging Lighting Elements 

Another easy way to brighten up your backyard is with either whimsical, elegant, or rustic hanging lighting elements. For instance, suspend a chandelier filled with tea light holders over the dining area of your patio. For convenience and to avoid a fire hazard, you can fill the holders with LED-lit candles. 

As a casual touch, hang wrought-iron lanterns filled with LED candles from tree branches around your backyard or under the eaves of your home. Pick lanterns featuring lacy grillwork, which will cast interesting shadows across the outdoor space. 

To create a cohesive look, place matching lanterns on steps or install lantern posts around the yard or in the garden. 

3. Ground Illumination 

Create a down-to-earth lighting look with various types of ground illumination. You can insert electric light posts around the perimeter of your yard, or along walkways. As an eclectic touch, plant flowers in glowing pots throughout the space, or install rope lights along brick pathways and sidewalks. 

Solar lights lining walkways is an eco- and wallet-friendly lighting option that will give backyard parties just the right amount of ambiance.