Outdoor lighting is a must for any nighttime entertaining, and what is summer without an outdoor party or evening soiree or two? That means outdoor lighting for patios takes center stage. Whether you are planning an outdoor dinner for two, just the family, or an event for dozens, the right outdoor patio lighting makes every event a special occasion.

Lighting a patio for entertaining is very similar to that of an indoor entertainment area. Guests won’t want bright lights shining down on them. Outdoor dining areas benefit from soft lighting that enhances a restful mood. Lights that cast a soft glow create a more intimate, genial atmosphere.

Portable lanterns, outdoor hanging lanterns, ceiling fans with light kits, and wall lights are all ways to enhance the casual vibe of patio seating and dining areas. And, increasingly, patio lights are put on dimmer switches so that they can be turned up when preparing food or cooking and turned down for relaxing and enjoying a meal.

Portable Lanterns Make Lighting Easy

For impromptu parties or spaces that need a little extra illumination, a portable lantern does the job. This is a beautifully chic way to lighten up a patio. Simple black metal ones look great placed around a patio or grouped together on deck areas.

Cathedral 36 Inch Tall 5 Light LED Outdoor Pier Lamp by Eurofase Lighting

Ideal for smaller balconies, stairs, and pathways, the Cathedral 36 Inch Tall 5 Light LED Outdoor Pier Lamp by Eurofase Lighting offers a warm ambiance for summer entertaining. With battery-operated LED candles and a convenient remote control, they can be controlled from anywhere. And no worries about the flame going out or causing a hazard, they give off the traditional candlelight look and feel with no flame.

Hanging Lanterns Set the Scene

Hanging lanterns provide charming ambiance in casual outdoor spaces. One reason they are a popular choice for patio lighting is that they are so versatile. A hanging lantern helps give an outdoor space a real “room” feeling when hung over the dining area. They can also anchor the seating area or illuminate darker, hard-to-light areas.

Glacier 21 Inch Tall 3 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Crystorama

With its modern-traditional feel, the Glacier 21 Inch Tall 3 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Crystorama creates an indoor atmosphere that turns the patio into an outdoor room. It gives the space an easy ambiance that makes guests feel welcomed.

Colfax 18 Inch Tall 1 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Hinkley Lighting

A contemporary take of a classic design, Colfax 18 Inch Tall 1 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Hinkley Lighting can fit into any décor style as a cohesive design element. Its sleek lines create a chic, sophisticated geometric form reminiscent of the Arts & Crafts movement brings unique flair into transitional spaces.

Sawyer 28 Inch Tall 12 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Hinkley Lighting

The eye-catching wagon-wheel shape Sawyer 28 Inch Tall 12 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Hinkley Lighting counterintuitively enhances the open-air feel of this outdoor space. The fresh, rustic aesthetic incorporates modern elements in a chic blend that will work on any patio. With 24 lights, it provides a beautiful glow for stylish outdoor entertaining.

Wall Mounted Lighting Provides the Finishing Touch

Wall-mounted lighting is the finishing touch on a home’s exterior while providing illumination to patios and outdoor spaces. They are an easy way to brighten open-air patios that don’t allow the installation of overhead lighting and can be used almost anywhere with a flat vertical surface.

Dumont 23 Inch Tall 3 Light Outdoor Wall Light by Crystorama

Creating a welcoming outdoor atmosphere and enhancing a home’s architecture, the Dumont 23 Inch Tall 3 Light Outdoor Wall Light by Crystorama blends well with a variety of design styles. Inspired by classic street lanterns, this vintage-style lantern can add interest and functionality by signaling the location of entrances and railings.

Ceiling Fans with Lights Expand Use of Outdoor Spaces

Ceiling fans with lights are perfect for areas where the temperatures don’t drop at night. In warmer climates, they can expand the use of outdoor spaces to almost year-round, and in the summer, it’s hot everywhere, so a bit of air movement makes outdoor living pleasant.

Odyn Custom Outdoor Rated Ceiling Fan with Light Kit by Fanimation

A striking addition to an outdoor space, the Odyn Custom Outdoor Rated Ceiling Fan with Light Kit by Fanimation is the centerpiece of any design. Its commanding presence is guaranteed to wow guests while providing ambient lighting that makes a space cozy. The light kit features LED lights that are highly efficient and cool burning. It improves airflow and spreads ambient lighting throughout the patio.

Make sure patio lighting is appropriate for outdoor use so they will be able to withstand the elements all year round.