Lighting Under Your Umbrella Is the Biggest Mood Shifter for Evenings Spent in Your Garden — Here's How to Do It
Whether tight on space or simply lacking in luminosity, this easy and affordable trick will instantly elevate your garden


The first leaves are beginning to fall in London, and that means long winter nights are on their way. But to enjoy the splendor of garden soirees once the sun starts setting earlier, investing in good lighting is essential. As it turns out, you don't need to break the bank; all you need to achieve a dazzling patio is a parasol and a chic set of outdoor umbrella lights.
Yes, string lights and hanging lanterns look fabulous, but they aren't always feasible without a wall or post to attach to. Not to mention, outdoor lighting needs to be close enough to seating arrangements so that you can easily dine or mingle. Enter outdoor umbrella lights. These clever garden lighting ideas expertly combine form and function, meaning you can light your outdoor living space without the hassle of complex hanging.
Don't waste precious space on a table lamp; incorporate outdoor umbrella lights reminiscent of shining stars and sparkling chandeliers. Below are six ways to shop this design discovery, from the best garden lighting brands.
Garden parasols and umbrellas are most commonly used over outdoor dining tables. So if you want an outdoor umbrella light fixture that feels more elevated while eating, then this piece from Atkin and Thyme is ideal. These battery-operated outdoor lights are designed to look like traditional Edison bulbs with amber LEDs. There are six bulbs on each string, and the dangling effect will make your dining area look more curated and considered.
Sometimes you simply need a lighting idea that prioritizes function. However, I can't in good conscience recommend a piece that isn't also stylish. This NORA·GIFT outdoor umbrella light is the best way to prioritize both needs. It is powered by four AA batteries (not included), providing approximately 60 hours of soft light or 30 hours of super bright illumination.
Add a twinkle to the last days of summer with these unique outdoor umbrella lights from Lights4fun. Each fairy light string features 10 warm white LEDs and is finished with a festoon bulb. There is also a timer function so you don't have to worry about remember to turn the lights off after a festive evening.
These outdoor umbrella lights are for those who want a little more unique style in their garden living space. The braided cable and the black metal mesh shades create a stylish lighting center piece that feels almost like an outdoor chandelier. You can hang these outdoor festoon lights on pergolas or trees as well.
If you are a fan of hanging classic string lights in your backyard, then these cordless outdoor umbrella lights from Amazon are the upgrade you need. They offer that same glowing ambiance without the hassle of needing a wall or trellis to hang them from. This set comes with 8 strands of lights with 15 LEDs, and each strand is 5 ft in length.
This sleek and simple LIMA outdoor umbrella light stands out for its wireless design and no installation needed. Simply attach it to a parasol or even a railing with its magnetic base for an instantly illuminated evening. The minimalist style matches with any umbrella design, offering light without overpowering a space.
Don't let your garden just be something to enjoy when the sun's out, clever patio lighting ideas (and a throw blanket or two) will make your outdoor space something to enjoy year-round.

Olivia Wolfe is a Design Writer at Livingetc. She recently graduated from University of the Arts London, London College of Communication with a Masters Degree in Arts and Lifestyle Journalism. In her previous experience, she has worked with multiple multimedia publications in both London and the United States covering a range of culture-related topics, with an expertise in art and design. At the weekends she can be found working on her oil paintings, reading, or antique shopping at one of London's many vintage markets.