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September 16, 2024Now Trending

Superior Outdoor Event Lighting Tips You Can’t Afford to Miss

Illuminate your outdoor event and make it shine with the right tent lighting. Don’t think lights are just for nighttime—adding lighting to your tent enhances the atmosphere even during the day, especially if you are using a tent. High-quality, commercial-grade tents are often made with durable blockout material, providing essential shade for your guests. 

By incorporating well-planned outdoor lighting, you ensure that your celebration space is not only comfortable but also brightly illuminated, creating an inviting and unforgettable event space.

Planning an outdoor gathering means paying attention to every detail, and lighting is a key element that can’t be overlooked. From choosing the right light style and power source to understanding installation best practices, there’s a lot to consider. That’s why we’re here to guide you through every aspect, ensuring your event is perfectly lit and nothing is left in the dark.

Now let’s explore the top 12 occasions where outdoor lighting plays a crucial role.


12 Types of Outdoor Events that Have Lighting Needs

outdoor event string lights

Don't rely solely on the sun to light up your party. Enhance your space with outdoor lighting options that perfectly complement the type of event you're hosting. The right lighting will not only amplify your event's theme but double as beautiful decor, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

  1. Wedding Events: Create a romantic ambiance with soft, warm lighting that casts a gentle glow during wedding ceremonies or receptions. Options like candles, chandeliers, and string lights add a touch of elegance, making the celebration of the bride and groom even more magical.
  2. Birthday Parties: Set the mood for fun with colorful lighting that matches your outdoor birthday party theme. Whether it's light-up balloons, LED lights, or glow sticks for the kids, the right event lighting can make the celebration pop with excitement.
  3. Quinceañeras: For a milestone birthday like a quinceañera, bright and beautiful lighting is essential. Consider uplighting to highlight the decorations and a spotlight to shine on the birthday girl, making her the star of the evening.
  4. Dinner Parties: Whether you're hosting a dinner at your restaurant or in your backyard, create an inviting glow that enhances the dining experience. Bistro lights and illuminated table centerpieces can add a warm and welcoming atmosphere that your guests will love.
  5. Beach Events: Power sources can be tricky for beach events, but solar-powered lights and tiki torches offer a great alternative. These outdoor lighting options not only light up your space but also add to the relaxed, tropical vibe of a beachside gathering.
  6. School Events: From outdoor sports events to proms and graduation ceremonies, the right lighting fixtures are key to showcasing your students. Use colorful lighting that matches school colors to boost school spirit and create a memorable celebration.
  7. Festivals: Make your festival stand out with vibrant, colorful lighting that draws guests in. Light and sound machines, along with disco balls, can inject energy and excitement, ensuring your festival is the talk of the town.
  8. Retail Sales: Attract customers to your outdoor sidewalk sale by highlighting your merchandise with the right lighting equipment. Whether it's a large, illuminated sign to catch attention or lights on display shelves to make your products shine, ensure everything is bright and inviting.
  9. Halloween: Set the perfect spooky atmosphere with dim lighting, glow-in-the-dark elements, or strobe lights. These effects will heighten the eerie vibe and make your Halloween event a spine-chilling success.
  10. Christmas: Infuse your event with Christmas spirit using red and green holiday lighting. Whether it's twinkling string lights or festive lanterns, these touches will make your celebration merry and bright.
  11. Hanukkah: Embrace the traditions of Hanukkah with a beautifully lit menorah or opt for flameless candles for a safe celebration. The warm glow of these lights will enhance the festival's meaning and create a cozy environment.
  12. Diwali - Indian Festival of Lights: Diwali is a celebration that’s all about vibrant lighting. Bright, colorful lights, diyas (oil lamps), and lanterns illuminate every corner, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. 

21 Lighting Options to Make Your Event Superb

With so many lighting choices out there, picking the perfect one for your celebration can feel a bit overwhelming. Whether you're planning to purchase or opt for lighting rental, the right lighting fixtures can transform your space and set the perfect mood. We’re here to break down the most common options to help you create an atmosphere that’s not just beautiful, but truly memorable.

gobo projector
1. Gobo Projectors: Want to add a personal touch to your party? Gobo projectors are your answer. Imagine your logo, names, or a special design projected onto a tent wall or dance floor, adding that unique flair that makes your event truly yours. It’s a small detail, but one that leaves a lasting impression.
outdoor uplights
2. Uplights: Uplights are the secret ingredient for making your event decor pop. Whether you’re highlighting a beautiful piece of art at an outdoor gallery or bringing attention to a stunning floral arrangement, uplights add depth and drama, making everything stand out.
outdoor event tent lighting
3. Intelligent Lighting: Take control of your event’s vibe with intelligent lighting equipment. This isn’t just about flipping a switch—this is about creating an experience. Adjust the vibrant colors, movement, and intensity to match the mood, or go eco-friendly with motion-detected lights. Perfect for corporate events, such as launch parties, aiming to make a statement.
outdoor concert lights
4. Spotlights: Every event has its stars, and spotlights make sure they shine. Whether it’s a performer, a speaker, or a special moment you want everyone to see, spotlights focus all the attention where it needs to be, adding that extra layer of excitement and importance.
outdoor wedding lights
5. DMX Programming: For the tech-savvy event planner, DMX programming is a game-changer. Imagine controlling all your lighting from one spot, syncing everything perfectly, and creating stunning visual effects. This is especially valuable for large events where you want to make a big impact.
outdoor string lights
6. Bistro/Cafe Lighting: There’s something inviting about bistro lights strung overhead, casting a warm glow on your outdoor dinner or casual gathering. These lights are perfect for creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
outdoor light towers
7. Light Towers: Sometimes, you just need to light up the night. Light towers are perfect for large gatherings, like sporting events, where you need broad, powerful illumination. Placed around the perimeter, they make sure everyone feels welcome and safe as they enter and exit your event.
outdoor string lights
8. Mini-String Lights: Mini-string lights, or fairy lights, bring a touch of magic to your event. Perfect for weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want a soft, romantic glow, these lights are like little bursts of joy hanging overhead.
tree wrap outdoor lighting
9. Tree Wraps: If your event space is blessed with beautiful trees, why not show them off? Wrapping lights around tree trunks and branches not only adds a stunning visual element but also keeps your guests safe by preventing accidental collisions in the dark.
texture outdoor lighting
10. Texture Lighting: Texture lighting is like painting with light. It’s similar to Gobo projectors but covers a larger area, casting intricate patterns or textures onto walls and floors. It’s a creative way to add depth and interest to your event space, turning blank walls into works of art.

Reach Out to Us for Your Next Event Tent

Let our team guide you every step of the way, ensuring your backyard wedding is a success. Contact us today to secure your top-of-the-line backyard wedding tent, complete with comprehensive post-sale support for hassle-free installation. We’d love to help!

outdoor laser lights

11. Lasers: For events that are all about energy and excitement, lasers are a must. Bright, colorful laser beams cutting through the night sky create a dynamic, electric atmosphere that’s perfect for concerts, festivals, and parties where you want to keep the energy high.

fire retardant tent

12. Water/Fire Effects: Want to add a touch of drama? Incorporate water or fire effects into your lighting plan. From illuminated fountains to flickering candlelight, these elements bring a natural, mesmerizing beauty that’s both calming and captivating.

outdoor black lights

13. Blacklights: Blacklights are the tool for glow-in-the-dark fun. Perfect for Halloween parties, haunted houses, or any nighttime event where you want to add a mysterious, glowing effect, blacklights make everything from decorations to costumes come alive.

skylight tent

14. Sky Lights: If you’re hosting an outdoor event under a tent, why not bring in some natural beauty with skylights? They let in daylight or starlight, creating a beautiful, open feel that’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors while staying covered and weather proof.

outdoor holiday lights

15. Themed Holiday Light Displays: Holiday events are all about the lights. Whether it’s a Christmas wonderland with twinkling trees or a 4th of July celebration with patriotic colors, themed light displays set the stage for festive fun and leave your guests in awe.

disco ball

16. Disco Balls: Nothing says “party” like a disco ball. As it spins, it reflects light all around, turning your dance floor into a dazzling display of shimmering lights. Perfect for galas, dances, or any event where you want to get your guests up and dancing.

outdoor DJ booth lighting

17. DJ Lights: Let the music guide the lights with DJ lighting. These colorful, dynamic lights sync with the beat, turning any space into a dance floor. It’s the perfect way to make sure your party has the energy and excitement to keep guests dancing all night long. 

outdoor lanterns

18. Lanterns: Add a warm, inviting glow to any special event with lanterns. Whether hung from trees, lighting walkways, or placed on tables, there’s a place at every event. Plus, they’re easy to transport and reuse, making them a great choice for event planners on the go.

outdoor chandelier

19. Chandelier: Make a grand statement with an illuminated chandelier. This elegant lighting option is perfect for upscale weddings or restaurant events where you want to impress your guests with a touch of luxury and sophistication.

lit up sign for wedding

20. Illuminated Sign: Make your message shine with an illuminated sign. Whether it’s a mobile marquee for a business event or a personalized sign for a wedding, a lit-up sign ensures that everyone knows what’s important at your event.

clear tent

21. Clear Tent: A clear tent lets you enjoy the beauty of the natural world while staying protected. Whether it’s a sunny day or a starry night, a clear tent allows your guests to feel connected to the outdoors without sacrificing comfort.


How to Best Utilize Outdoor Lighting to Enhance Your Event

outdoor event lighting

Never underestimate the power of the right lighting at your event. Lighting not only draws attention but also sets the mood, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages celebration. To maximize the impact of your outdoor lighting, it’s essential to choose a style that complements your gathering.

Once you’ve selected your lighting, the next step is strategic placement. Thoughtfully planning where to position your lights ensures that your event is consistently well-lit, enhancing both the ambiance and safety. For nighttime events, consider placing lights near parking areas, along walkways, and around the perimeter of your venue. This not only helps guests navigate the space but also reduces the risk of accidents.

When it comes to the main stage or focal point of your event, lighting plays a more decorative role. Take the time to carefully map out your event layout and decide where each light fixture will have the most impact. If your event involves a tent, consult your tent’s diagram or setup guide to determine the best spots for hanging lights, ensuring that every corner of your space is illuminated.

Finally, don’t forget about power sources. If your outdoor venue lacks access to electricity, consider battery-operated or solar-powered lights to keep your event shining bright. With the right planning and execution, your lighting will not only highlight your event’s key moments but also create a memorable experience for all your guests.

FAQs

Q: What if my outdoor venue doesn’t have access to electricity?

A: In these instances, it’s common to use solar lights, battery-powered lights, or candles for a warm, ambient glow. Portable generators and lanterns are also great options.


Q: How can I make sure the lighting covers the entire event space?

A: Plan lighting placement carefully, using a mix of overhead and ground-level lights to ensure even coverage throughout the venue.


Q: What lighting is most popular for weddings?

A: Common lighting choices for weddings include: string lights, chandeliers, and light-up signs or monogram letters. These popular choices add elegance and personalization to the special day.


Q: What’s the best lighting to ensure event safety?

A:  To help keep guests safe and secure, use bright lights around parking lots, lighted walkways, and well-lit exit signs in tents.

Need a Customized Outdoor Tent? Chat with Us

Looking to enhance your event with an elegant tent? We can help! Call us today and let our experienced team guide you to find the perfect tent that will transform your outdoor gathering into an unforgettable celebration. 

Discover the many options we offer by calling us: 920-431-0938

Create a Bright Event with Expert Lighting Solutions

outdoor tent lighting

Brighten your outdoor event with lighting that not only illuminates your space but also sets the perfect mood. Whether you're hosting a wedding, festival, or any other special occasion, the right lighting can transform your event from ordinary to extraordinary. From ensuring safety with well-lit walkways to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere with glowy string lights, lighting is a crucial element that enhances every aspect of your event.

We’re passionate about helping you create unforgettable events. While we specialize in selling top-quality tents, we’re also here to guide you through all the details that make an event shine, including the best lighting options. With years of experience in the event industry, our knowledge team can help recommend a reliable lighting supplier.

Explore our selection of event accessories designed to complement your lighting, like our commercial-grade sidewalls. And don't forget about the essential setup tools that ensure your tent is securely installed. Our frame jacks, stake pullers, and drop cloths are just a few of the tools that can help make your event setup smooth and stress-free.

Still searching for the perfect tent? We're here to help! Contact us today, and let our team assist you in creating an event that your guests will talk about long after the lights go out. Let's work together!

Tony Ehrbar's headshot

Tony Ehrbar

Owner & CEO

Tony's entrepreneurial spirit is woven into the fabric of American Tent (an Inc 5000 company), shaped by his experience running a successful event venue & tent rental service. His recognition as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2019 is a testament to his impact & dedication to his community. As the Co-founder and CEO of Renegade Plastics, Tony is leading initiatives in the tent industry to integrate eco-friendly, recyclable materials. Contributing as a board member for the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA) & the Green Bay Area Public Schools Foundation and being featured by Entrepreneur, Oracle, & Modern Weddings, Tony plays a pivotal role in enhancing the growth and success of the textile industry.

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