Gazebo lights are a sure-fire way to brighten up a space both literally and figuratively – you can achieve such a warm, inviting ambience with a simple string of canopy lights in seconds. With LED, battery-operated, and solar lights taking the market by storm, it’s no wonder so many of us are on the hunt for the best of the best.
Dim lights, curtain lights, rope lights…there are just so many to choose from. The funny thing is that each one can give a whole different feel to your gazebo, so it’s important to choose the right ones that will suit your outdoor setting. A gazebo is already like your own backyard getaway, so being able to customize it with lighting means you can enjoy your happy place all day and night.
Whether you’re going for a romantic mood, need something to liven a wedding canopy, want to illuminate your hot tub for a midnight soak, or simply need to create a more dynamic atmosphere, we’re here with a full review of the best canopy lighting, handpicked by us.
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1. Enbrighten Vintage LED String Lights
Power Type: Electrical Outlet
Dimmable, color-changing, impact-resistant – these are a commercial-grade set of globes that are packed with value. They come in 24ft or 48ft long strands, and there are 6 different styles to choose from: Black, Black and White Oil-Rubbed Bronze, classy Stainless Steel, simple White, and there’s even a set that comes with a Wi-Fi Smart Plug for a slightly steeper price.
Since the rest of our choices on this list have been on the low-end in terms of cost, we decided to add this premium model to give you the widest range of options. You can connect up to 15 strands at once, there are multiple mounting options, and they’re fully weatherproof.
These come in a strand of 12 robust acrylic globes, and remote control that is a huge standout for us. It’s extremely easy to use because instead of changing between colors using one button, you’ve got all 16 colors in the palm of your hand. Choose the exact hue you want without wasting time scrolling through each one.
Key Features:
- Hard-Wearing Acrylic Globes are Impact Resistant
- Remote Control with 9 Options and 16 Color Choices
- Linkable Strands up to 750ft
2. Parmida LED Canopy Light
Power Type: Solar + 1 AA Battery Required
Much like the Adventuregy model we mentioned above, this last choice from Parmida is focused more on practicality than on looks. It consists of a single, square energy-efficient LED. You could even get a couple and space them out on the ceiling for a brighter space.
With an IP65 rating, it’s certainly built for handling the outdoors, as it’s protected from jets of water and is completely air-tight – it won’t let any kind of dust or debris inside. It’s also UV-stabilized with special powder-coated paint.
Seeing as it is rather bright at 5200 Lumens and with a color temperature of 5000K, we appreciate that you have the option to dim them from 0-10V. The installation consists of a simple 4-step process. There are no humming sounds, there’s no flickering, and you even get a free mounting plate.
Key Features:
- Sleek Square Design Measuring 9.6”W x 9.6”L x 3.4”D
- Lengthy 50,000 Hour Lifetime
- Durable Aluminum Build with IP65 Waterproof Rating
3. LVJING Solar Canopy Lantern Lights
Power Type: Solar + 1 AA Battery Required
Let’s start off with these retro lanterns from LVJING. We’ve always loved using camping lanterns in tents, so we were excited when we came across this 4-pack. Rather than a modern design, these have an old-fashioned quality about them with transparent windows and a flickering candle. Well, it’s not a real one, but we can’t go past how real these look with their faux candle flicker effect – it adds to the whole ambience.
These are ideal for those who don’t want something fixed permanently to their structure, since they hang using a metal clap on the handle. Each one is quite small, making them easily portable, and they’re waterproof with an IP44 rating. This means they’re scratch-proof and are protected against water splashes from all directions.
An automatic setting means it will switch off during the day to charge and turn on at night – you can set and forget.
Key Features:
- Lightweight 35oz with Durable IP44 Waterproof Exterior
- Auto On/Off Switch & 6-8 Hour Charging Time
- Compact Size 3.5” x 3.5” x 4.9”
4. Sunlitec Solar String Lights
Power Type: Solar + USB Rechargeable 2000mAh Battery
For those who prefer using rechargeable power, these solar ones from Sunlitec are a top choice. Their solar panel features a 27-foot rubber strand with 25 LED bulbs, rather than 12 bulbs like some other brands. This means it has a faster charging time, longer runtime, and a more intense glow all-around.
The standout for us, though, is the fact that the panel also has a micro-USB port. This means you can use these both outdoors and indoors, as you can recharge it in a cinch without the need for power from the sun. Each globe is an LED, and the entire string weighs around 2lbs – while that’s not the lightest we’ve seen, it means that these are more durable against mild weather conditions.
Key Features:
- 3W/5V Solar Panel with Micro-USB Port
- 25 LED Bulbs are Weatherproof & Last 50,000 Hours
- 8 Hour Runtime on One 5 Hour Charge
5. Fitybow LED Rope Lights
Power Type: 3 AA Batteries
While we’re huge fans of classic string and fairy styles, this rope design from Fitybow is definitely one of our favorites. It’s interesting because it gives the illusion of classic string models, but when you look closer it has more of a uniform glow. This makes it perfect for wrapping around posts, along the edge of the shelter roof, or even on some trees.
You get a remote control with 8 modes, ranging from Twinkle/Flash to Slow Fade. From the remote, you can also adjust the brightness levels, and set a timer to turn it on automatically for 6 hours and off for 18.
The rope itself has an IP67 rating, meaning it’s dust-tight and won’t let any kind of debris get to the bulbs, and can be immersed in water up to 30 minutes. Basically, it’s highly waterproof and can be left out on rainy days and nights.
The plastic box that houses the batteries is IP44, which translates to scratch defense and water splash protection – we recommend covering up this battery box if it’s raining outside.
Key Features:
- Remote Control with 8 Modes, Brightness & Timer
- Highly Waterproof IP67 Waterproof Rope
- 40ft Rope with 120 LEDs per Rope
6. Adventuregy Magnetic LED Lights
Power Type: Solar + 1 AA Battery Required
We wanted to include some options for those who aren’t so concerned about the ambience, and more-so focused on the functionality of a well-lit space. These are marketed towards RV’s, but we think they’re simply perfect for lining the underside of a shelter for a bright, comfortable glow.
If you love reading or studying outside, these are a must. Since they have such a simple and straightforward design, you can position them in different areas under the roof, or on the inside of the posts, so you can customize the beam of light to go directly where you need it.
A highlight for us is the built-in magnetic mounting, in addition to the reusable Velcro straps. 12V DC connections are made by using a 12V attachment, like a cigarette lighter or USB battery. You’ve even got a handy 110V AC power adapter provided in the pack.
Key Features:
- Four 4.15” LED Light Bars with Extremely Bright 1920 Lumens
- Wireless Remote with 11 Controls
- Convenient Kit Design for Better Organization
7. SUNTHIN Globe Outdoor String Lights
Power Type: Electrical Outlet
Available in 27ft, 48ft, or 97ft long strings, these have a suspended socket design with transparent globes. Eco-friendly LED bulbs give you 30,000 hours of runtime, plus they won’t overheat. Measuring 1.57” long for each globe, these are easily storable as they won’t take up much space.
We like how you can connect up to 10 strands at a time with the help of end-to-end connection on the plugs. That’s a huge advantage when one strand isn’t long enough to cover the area you want. Each globe is windproof, waterproof, sun-resistant, and snowproof, which means you won’t have to constantly take them down and reinstall them after each use.
Speaking of installation, it’s a seamless process that can be done in a few minutes. You can use zip ties, cup hooks, or guide wires to attach them. Oh, and they’re fully dimmable, so you can get the perfect luminosity based on your mood.
Key Features:
- Durable IP65 Weatherproof Bulbs
- 1W E12 Socket Base G40 LEDs
- Linkable with Up to 10 Strands at a Time
8. Canopy Curtain String Lights
Power Type: Electrical Outlet
If you’re really going for that magic touch, this curtain design is it. These look stunning in photos as well as in real life, so we think they’re a great choice for an outdoor event, like a birthday party or anniversary.
These give off a warm-white glow. They’re also known as “icicles” because they flow so smoothly and freely downwards, creating a decorative effect. Powering on is simple, with a standard plug-in plug-out process for turning it on and off.
While these look and act like curtains once you place some transparent drapery over the top, they’re more lightweight than you’d think – 1.08lbs makes them a cinch to transport and store.
Key Features:
- Decorative Curtain Design 9.8ft x 9.8ft
- 304 Eco-Friendly Warm-White LED’s
- 8 Modes to Adjust Brightness
9. Brightown Outdoor Canopy String Lights
Power Type: Electrical Outlet
These globes from Brightown feature a classic exposed-bulb style for that vintage or retro look. With an IP44 rating they’ll withstand a fair amount of weathering, but we wouldn’t recommend leaving them out in the rain for too long. At 23 Lumens per bulb, these emit a lovely warm white tone for a relaxed vibe.
Each one measures just under 3” in length from the socket to the tip of the bulb, and 1.56” wide. We like how the sockets are covered by a thick black plastic, as this maintains the longevity on the wire and bulb. 25 sockets are provided on each strand, plus they give you a spare one for any accidents.
One of the best things about these is that the wires have a parallel circuit. This means that if one bulb burns out, the others will remain lit. They’ve covered all bases, even storing a spare fuse in the lead plug.
Key Features:
- 25ft, 50ft & 100ft Strand Lengths Available
- Dimmable Bulbs with 23 Lumens of Warm White Light
- Bonus Spare Globe Included
10. Outdoor Lighting Store String Lights
Power Type: Electrical Outlet
Next are these hanging bulbs from the Outdoor Lighting Store. This exposed-bulb style is one of the most popular for events, like weddings or parties, and they’re a little more subtle than the traditional fairy-light design.
You get 50 G40 globes in the pack, and we appreciate how they’ve added 10 extra ones so you won’t be left with any blown bulbs in the middle of the night. Since these are incandescent, they give off a gorgeous warm glow.
Some other goodies provided in the box include a 50ft cable with 50 candelabra or (E12) socket bases, a spare fuse, 100 black zip ties, and a comprehensive guide on setting everything up. Working with 110V, these are effortless to install. There are countless ideas to try, from wrapping them around a wooden post or hanging them across the center of the roof.
Key Features:
- 60 1.5” Bulbs with E12 Socket & 5W of Power
- 10 Replacement Bulbs Added for Free
- 100 Zip Ties & Spare Fuse Included
How to Choose the Right Gazebo Lighting or Canopy Lights
Know the Types
Firstly, you should get to know the different styles out there that you can choose from. The most common ones are:
- Fairy/String
- Lanterns
- Hanging
- Curtain
- Rope
While they all essentially do the same thing (brighten the place up) each one brings a different mood, atmosphere, or vibe to the environment.
Fairy/String and Curtain models have a magical or enchanting feel to them and are definitely our go-to pick for romantic settings. They’re generally lightweight and hassle-free to install.
Hanging and Lantern styles have some sort of nostalgic quality to them, which makes sense since most of them have a vintage or classic design. These are ideal for settings with a laid-back or relaxed ambience, and are also referred to as “bistro” style. This makes them great for outdoor cookouts or dinners.
Ropes are highly versatile and convenient to install. You can wrap them around the legs of your shelter, line them up in a neat row on the edges of the roof inside and on the exterior, or you could even use them to decorate surrounding shrubbery.
As you’ve seen on our list, there are certainly other types to choose from. We included a couple of industrial-type lights that suit those who want a straightforward light source, rather than a decorative element. These can come in the form of strips, cubes, or plates.
Installation Method
There are two options to choose from, and typically most people fall in either one: Permanent or Temporary.
- Permanent fixtures are, well, permanent, and are suited to those who are planning to leave their shelter up for years to come. Most of the time, these types come with bulbs that can be switched out once dead, rather than replacing the entire thing.
- Temporary ones can use plenty of different attachment methods, from clamps to clips, to zip ties, to Velcro. These are great for people who can’t use a permanent fixture due to some restrictions, or those who need something for a one-time event.
Power
Typically, the three main power types you’ll find are:
- Solar
- Electrical Outlet
- Battery-Powered
Solar power works best when the panels are not in any way obstructed from the sun, so keep that in mind if your shelter doesn’t have proper exposure to those UV-rays. Some models have an auto on/off feature that turns off during the day and powers on at night.
Electrical Outlets are really straightforward to use (they work like any other outlet in your house) but the one drawback is that you’ll need an extension cable. An easy fix for this, though, is to get electricity running straight to your canopy with the help of an electrician. You’ll need an outdoor-friendly powerpoint. Again, keep that in mind if you don’t want any type of permanent fixture.
Battery-Powered models are handy because you can put them anywhere in or around the shelter, and turn them off and on as needed using a simple switch.
Use
Why do you need lights? What will you be using them for? Those are two crucial questions you need to ask yourself before choosing just any old set.
If you need something for performing tasks, like reading, writing, studying, building, etc., go for styles like the ones from Parmida and Aventuregy.
For decorative purposes, you can go for pretty much any of the other styles we mentioned in the “Know the Types” section. Choosing between them will depend on the overall look you’re going for.
How Do You Install Gazebo Lights?
There are multiple ways to install them, but most fall between the permanent and temporary categories. It all depends on the brand and style, but they can be installed using built-in outdoor outlets for permanent fixtures, or zip ties, hooks, wires, and clamps for temporary kinds.
You can attach them in different places on your shelter – there are no set rules on where you can and can’t put them (unless permits are required, which you should check with your local council to confirm). Hang them on the roof, around the posts, on the ceiling – get creative!
How Much Do Canopy Lights Cost?
They can range anywhere from $13 to $100 or over – it all depends on the manufacturer, style of light, and the materials used. Some models will come with additional features that you won’t find on all of them, like remote controls, color-changing effects, and weatherproofing, and those aspects will heighten the price.
Should I Use Glass or Plastic Gazebo Lights?
Personal preference definitely comes into play here – there is no rulebook 101 on which material you should choose. Some people prefer glass bulbs because they can look a little clearer than plastic ones, as the latter can sometimes be a little cloudy.
Conclusion on Canopy and Gazebo Lights
Lighting is an essential part of any form of entertainment, so why should your backyard gazebo be any different? If you’ve already got deck lighting or patio lights, then it’s the perfect compliment. String and hanging lights create an ethereal-like feel, and are perfect for those looking for style as well as functionality.
Lanterns are a must if you don’t want any kind of permanent fixture, not to mention their eye-catching vintage style. Using our list of the best gazebo and canopy lighting, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect set, no matter if it’s for an event, party, or simply for your own pleasure.
The majority of grill gazebos are roughly 8 feet wide by 5 feet deep, so first decide whether those dimensions suit your space. There are some that are larger, but it isn t as easy to find one with a smaller footprint (although we did). Grill gazebos come with either a canopy top, usually made from polyester or Sunbrella fabric, or a hardtop, often constructed from steel or a combination of steel and polycarbonate. Both are typically weather- and rust-resistant and treated for UV protection. Extra features to look for include serving shelves on either side of the grill, hooks for hanging barbecue utensils, and a LED lights for nighttime cookouts.