There’s nothing like owning a lofty ornamental gazebo in your yard.
This eye-seducing centerpiece has been used in modern architecture for centuries. It’s hard to ignore and pleasing to look at. Even in its name, the Latin meaning of the word translates to “I will gaze.”
A gazebo’s rustic opulent and idyllic features touch the soul with charming radiance. It even carries symbolic power. Owning one signifies stability, beauty, and strength. You know you’ve made it when you’re kicking back and enjoying the fruits of your labor in your wonderful gazebo.
A quaint rustic gazebo elevates you outdoors like nothing else. It’s the perfect spot for family events, parties, and even a romantic dinner.
While a gazebo is attractive by itself, nothing makes it look better than covering its outdoor lights. As they’ve gotten more popular, so needs to make them glow.
If you want to add lights to your gazebo and need some inspiration, we can help. Sometimes Pinterest boards can’t spark your inner creative designer.
In our article, we list some gazebo lighting ideas to get rid of your “creative block.” We’ll also break down how to set them up, list some common gazebos, and showcase other lighting options that complement any property.
Types of Gazebo
For many, it’s the perfect wedding photo backdrop. Others use it to host parties. For some, it’s a place of pure relaxation while sipping morning coffee or tea and enjoying the view.
Whatever reason you have for owning a gazebo, you might be looking to spruce it up with outdoor lights. If you’re looking to buy one, or already own one, visualizing decorations can be easier if you know what you’re looking for.
Let’s look at some common gazebos so you can pick the one you want to buy or help maximize the one you already own:
1) Pavilion
The more traditional-looking gazebos are shaped like a hexagon or octagon.
Supported by 4 or 6 pillars, the roof structured gazebo usually doesn’t have a floor. Some homeowners attach them to their patios or use them as an extension to their decks.
You can have your own Great Gatsby party here. Since they clear open spaces on the sides and functional columns, their spaciousness is perfect for adding decorative lights, curtains, and even seating.
2) Rotundas
Visit a popular national park and you’ll probably see a rotunda gazebo. Its ornate European design has aged well over the years and is arguably the hallmark of architecture design. The US Capitol Rotunda captures the essence of what a rotunda looks like.
The rotunda is a circular-shaped gazebo usually supported by pillars, its floor, and a dome. It also has no walls and is usually made up of sandstone. Sometimes rotunda gazebos are made up of wood as well. They are perfect for just about any decoration and lighting.
3) Victorian
When people picture a gazebo, this is probably what they see. Look at any wedding picture or watch a romantic movie with a gazebo in it and you’ll probably see an elegant Victorian gazebo.
Its Victorian design is the closest thing to a time machine. Its earthly, simple, and asymmetrical design pairs flawlessly with any outdoor space or garden. The main features of a Victorian gazebo are its double roofs, its decorative braces, and modern brackets. The curvy wall panels and beams are the perfect backdrops for any party, picture, or spot for your plants.
4) Pergolas
Another floorless gazebo. Not to be confused with an arbor, a pergola is supported by columns holding up a roof structure with a series of beams and rafters. With so much open space, design options are endless.
Most pergolas have open roofs with some support beams and rafts. It’s the perfect addition to any patio or terrace. It also perfectly complements a garden and can act as a walkway too. The one thing pergolas don’t do well is protect you from rain.
5) Pagodas
Borrowing strong references from Japanese architecture, pagodas have an intricate appearance that is not only ornamental but is very functional. Their roofs may have multiple tiers and are supported by wooden pillars.
Its prime features are its pointed roof, curving sides, and flawless woodwork. Pagodas usually have an entrance and flooring. The fence is an intricate part of the gazebo and usually only reaches your hips. Pagodas can be rectangular or even octagonal, but their distinguishing feature is based on their roof and style.
6) Portable and Pop-Up Gazebos
Most of the gazebos listed here are mostly permanent structures. Some people don’t have that luxury or only need temporary gazebos for an event or function. Portable gazebos are the perfect and most affordable option.
Being light in size and weight, these attractive gazebos offer a range of contemporary and modern design options. Which is great for just about any outdoor space. Many of these structures are held by steel frames, have waterproof material, and are available in various colors. For those looking for an enclosed option, this is your best bet.
Setting Up Gazebo Lights
Setting up your lights can be tricky. If you don’t have a close source of electricity, you’ll need to consider your options. Also, sometimes you’ll need special wiring to prevent fires and safely use the closes source of electricity for your outdoor lights.
We highly recommend hiring a licensed electrician if you’re using your property’s electric grid. Unless you already have outdoor outlets, don’t try it yourself.
We’ll detail some battery-powered or solar-powered gazebo lights that work just as great.
When setting your lights up, make sure to mark the areas where you’re going to place them. In some cases, you’ll want to embed them on a pole or wall. Install sockets to place your lights unless, of course, you’re putting up string lights.
Gazebo Lighting Ideas
The sun has set. It’s time to light up your gazebo. With the right options, you can transform your gazebo into the perfect outdoor getaway under the stars. We’ve listed some of the most popular gazebo lighting ideas.
Light your gazebo and the area around it with solar lights, lanterns, candles, LED lights, and much more. Our list will help you fire up your creative juices so that you can beautify your gazebo with the perfect lights.
1) Outdoor Lanterns
Lanterns never lost their style. With so many modern styles available, battery-powered lanterns can be hung or placed on the ground. They’re also perfect for end tables or placing a couple on the ground to illuminate the area.
2) Fire Pits
Keep some s’mores at hand and place a few cozy chairs the perfect functional centerpiece. Great for just about any gazebo, avoid using it in an enclosed or screened structure and make sure it has ventilation. From propane models and wood-burning pits, keep yourself warm and give your gazebo character with a fire pit.
3) Chandelier
For a more luxurious look, a chandelier exudes extravagance with luminous crystalline glitter. Not only do they look great at night, but the sunlight’s beam also will cover your gazebo with beautiful sparkles. Add some curtains and matching chairs for a classical look.
4) Solar Gazebo Lights
This is one of the most affordable ways to make your gazebo light up at night. The solar-powered gazebo’s light soaks in the sun during the day and uses that energy at night to light up your landscape. If you can’t embed and plug in your lights, solar-powered lights work wonders. They come in many forms like string lights, hanging LED lights, and more.
5) Gazebo LED Lights
Another popular option is standard LED lights. What better way to spend your time outside with lights that not only make a gazebo look nice, but also illuminates the entire area. Just about any retailer that sells lights offers LED lights custom-made for gazebos.
6) String Lights
Dangle them like drapes, mount them over your gazebo, or strap them around your pillars. String lights give you an array of options to make your gazebo glow. These are perfect for any gazebo of any size. Best of all, you can find solar-powered options for budget-conscience homeowners, while maintaining a quality appearance.
7) Modern Overhead Outdoor Fan
Flush your outdoors with a classic look without the glitz and glamor. Fan lights are great because they’re functional both day and night. Keep cool under sweltering heat and flush your space with great lighting simultaneously.
8) Candle Gazebo Lighting Ideas
The alluring effect of waxen candles can create a magical atmosphere anywhere. With their soft glow, it doubles as lighting and decoration. Used in glass jars, decorative plating, or even lanterns, they can be placed anywhere in your gazebo. You can also consider installing a decorative motif like a hanging candelabra with fake LED candles to light up your gazebo. Fake LED candles are also perfect for those that don’t want real flames near flammable objects.
9) Tiki Torches
The strategic placement of tiki torches is another timeless addition. Paired with a cabana-like setting, you’ll feel like you’re in Hawaii every day. Be wary about where you place them and keep them away from flammable materials. These are perfect for any kind of beach or desert landscaping.
Variety Is Key
Consider using a mixture of these gazebo lighting ideas to create an impressive illuminated backyard.