Outdoor festoon lights are the go-to choice for transforming any garden, patio, or courtyard into a charming evening oasis. But before you hang those glowing bulbs, it's crucial to get the installation right. A proper setup not only looks stunning but also ensures long-lasting safety and durability.

How to Safely Hang Outdoor Festoon Lights in the UK?

Start by planning your layout. Think about where people walk, where you want the light to fall, and what structures you can anchor to—like walls, fences, pergolas, or trees. Mark out your anchor points and measure the full length needed.

Always install strong, secure fixings that are rated for outdoor use. Use screw-in hooks, wall plugs for brick walls, or eye bolts into wooden beams. These should be spaced every 2.5 to 3.5 metres to keep the string supported and sag-free.

For longer spans or exposed areas, we highly recommend using a stainless steel support wire (also called a catenary wire). Attach the wire between your anchor points, then clip or cable-tie the festoon cable to the wire. This takes the strain off the light cable itself, especially in high winds.

Drape the cable gently so each bulb hangs in a soft curve—this not only looks better but reduces stress on the sockets. And of course, always keep lights high enough to avoid head bumps, especially over walkways or seating areas.

What Fixings Do You Need for Festoon Lights?

To keep your lights securely mounted all year round, choose heavy-duty outdoor fixings. Your options include:

• Screw-in hooks (for wooden structures or fence posts)

• Eye bolts with wall plugs (for brick or concrete walls)

• Pole brackets (for mounting to posts or custom poles)

• Galvanised wire kits (with turnbuckles and clamps for long runs)

Your hardware should match the weight and span of your lighting run. If you’re running festoons across open space, a tensioned wire is essential. Fix it first, then hang the lights from the wire—not directly between two points. This avoids drooping and damage over time.

Make sure every fixing goes into a stable surface—avoid nailing into flimsy fences or plastic panels. Each anchor should be able to handle wind load and the total weight of the lights.

Can I Hang Festoon Lights Like Christmas Lights?

While Christmas lights can be loosely draped and removed in a month, festoon lights are a more permanent feature—and they should be treated as such.

Festoon lighting is typically heavier, uses 230V mains power, and is designed to stay up longer. That means temporary tape, plastic clips, or indoor cable ties won’t do. Instead, use permanent outdoor fixings, support wire, and weatherproof connectors.

Also, because of the voltage and exposure, you must comply with UK safety standards. If you're installing any new wiring outdoors, it must follow BS 7671 and may need to be signed off under Part P of the Building Regulations. If you’re unsure, always bring in a qualified electrician.

For plug-in lights, make sure the socket is properly rated for outdoor use, includes an RCD for safety, and has a locking cover to protect the plug from rain. These details matter—not just for safety, but also to keep your setup looking great season after season.

Do I Need an Electrician for Outdoor Festoon Lights?

The good news: if your festoon lights plug directly into an existing outdoor socket, you generally don’t need an electrician. But if you’re installing a new circuit or hardwiring your lights into a fixed outdoor system, a qualified electrician is required.

UK regulations (Part P and BS 7671) are strict when it comes to outdoor electrics. Any new electrical work outside must be done safely, with weatherproof components, and reported to local building control if necessary.

Even with plug-in setups, it’s vital to use a socket with a 30mA RCD (residual current device). This protects you from electric shock if something goes wrong. Outdoor sockets should be IP-rated and have a waterproof seal—even when a plug is inserted.

What Safety Devices Should I Use?

When it comes to electricity outdoors, safety devices are not optional—they’re essential.

Here’s what you should have:

• RCD protection: Either built into your fuse box or as a plug-in adapter

• Weatherproof sockets: With IP66-rated covers and secure rubber seals

• Outdoor extension leads: Specifically designed for wet weather use

Check your festoon light plug as well. Most reputable UK lights will have a fused plug that’s UKCA-marked. If yours doesn't, or you’re tempted to cut the plug off to hardwire it—don’t. You could be voiding the safety certification.

What’s the Best IP Rating for Outdoor Lights?

Festoon lights come with different IP ratings depending on their design. Here’s what to look for:

• IP44 – Splashproof. Suitable for use under a canopy, awning, or in semi-covered areas.

• IP65 – Waterproof. Ideal for fully exposed outdoor spaces that get a lot of rain or wind.

For year-round outdoor use in the UK, IP65 is the safest choice. It provides better protection against water ingress and stands up to harsh winter weather. Remember, even with a good IP rating, always install your lights securely and check connections regularly.

Can I Leave Festoon Lights Up All Year?

Yes, provided they’re built for it. Look for festoon lights with an IP65 rating and durable rubber or silicone cabling. These are made for permanent outdoor use and can withstand rain, frost, and sunlight.

That said, regular inspection is key. Check the sockets and bulbs after major weather events, and clean the fittings once in a while to prevent dirt build-up.

If your lights are IP44-rated, consider taking them down for winter or during storms. This will extend their lifespan and avoid unexpected failures.

How Should I Power My Festoon Lights?

Most festoon light strings designed for the UK market come with a standard 3-pin plug. That makes them easy to set up—just plug them into a weatherproof outdoor socket.

But here’s the important part: your outdoor socket must be rated for wet conditions (IP66 is ideal), have an RCD, and seal tightly when a plug is connected.

Never run a standard indoor extension lead out through a window. It’s a common shortcut—but it's unsafe and against electrical guidelines. Instead, use a properly rated outdoor extension cable, fully unrolled and laid out safely.

Some festoon light systems let you daisy-chain multiple strings together. Just be careful not to exceed the total wattage or amperage allowed. Check your manufacturer’s instructions to stay within safe limits.

Should I Use a Support Wire for Long Runs?

Absolutely. If your festoon lights span more than 3 metres without support—or if they cross open space like between trees or buildings—you need a support wire.

A tensioned stainless steel cable will take the weight of the lights and prevent the cable from stretching, sagging, or snapping. It also adds wind resistance and reduces pressure on each socket. This is especially important in the UK, where wind and rain are frequent guests.

Support wire kits are widely available and include turnbuckles, hooks, and clamps. Install the wire tightly between two anchor points first, then hang your lights from it using cable ties or clips.

How Do I Keep Festoon Lights Safe from Fire or Shock?

Modern LED festoon lights are safe when installed correctly—but there are still risks if they’re neglected.

• Always use LED bulbs: they stay cool and use less energy

• Keep lights away from dry leaves, fabrics, or flammable materials

• Don’t overload circuits: plug only the recommended number of strings together

• Never use damaged cables, sockets, or plugs

If water ever gets into the bulb holders or connectors, unplug the lights immediately and let everything dry thoroughly before reusing—or replace damaged components.

How Often Should I Inspect My Lights?

It’s a good habit to inspect your lights at the start of each season and after any extreme weather.

Turn the lights off and unplug them. Check each bulb, cable, and connector for wear, water ingress, or damage. Tighten any loose bulbs, and replace any that are cracked or not working.

Wipe down the cable and bulbs with a dry cloth. If storing your lights during winter, remove the bulbs (if possible), coil the cable loosely, and keep everything in a dry, dust-free location.

Final Thoughts

Installing outdoor festoon lights isn’t just about adding glow—it’s about doing it safely, correctly, and beautifully. With the right fixings, weatherproofing, and a bit of planning, you’ll have a lighting setup that turns heads and stands the test of time.

Ready to light up your garden? Make sure your next step is a safe one.