Summary: This guide compares twelve of Australia’s top outdoor festoon lighting options, from commercial-grade LED strings to solar and smart sets. It explains IP ratings, SAA safety standards, cable requirements, and performance factors like brightness, colour quality, and dimming control — helping you choose safe, durable, and great-looking festoon lights for any space.
Planning to string some ambience across the deck? Outdoor festoon lights are the quickest way to turn a patio, courtyard or café terrace into a warm, welcoming space—but choosing the right set can be tricky. Mains vs solar, 10 m vs 30 m runs, shatterproof vs glass, dimmable vs smart, IP ratings, connectable cables and bulb spacing all affect the look, longevity and cost. Add coastal weather and summer storms, and you need lights that are sturdy, safe and easy to install without blowing the budget.
This guide rounds up 12 of the best outdoor festoon lights you can buy in Australia—from durable commercial-grade kits to great-value solar and smart options. We’ve compared specs across specialist brands and retailers to help you buy with confidence and match your setup to your balcony, backyard, wedding or venue.
1. LiquidLEDs outdoor festoon string light kits (LED, dimmable)
Why it made the list
LiquidLEDs delivers a rare combination for outdoor festoon lighting: IP65-rated construction, rubber 1.5 mm cable that complies with Australian safety standards, and flicker-free, high-CRI LED bulbs for comfort and colour accuracy. Add smooth dimming and long lifespan, and you get a professional-grade, wellness-focused lighting setup made for both homes and venues.
Key specs and options
- IP65-rated: Dust- and water-jet resistant for year-round outdoor use (IP44 vs IP65 guide).
- Rubber cable (1.5 mm): Complies with Australian electrical standards and resists cracking—unlike cheaper PVC alternatives (SAA certification explained).
- Flicker-free, high CRI: Accurate colour rendering and visual comfort for long evenings outdoors.
- Dimmable performance: Compatible with LED dimmers for smooth, stable fades.
- Colour options: From Ultra Warm (2000 K) to Warm White for task-friendly light.
- Styling flexibility: Choose from festoon bulbs in classic, globe or tubular styles.
- LM-80 confidence: LED package tests show 96–98 % brightness retention after 9,000 h; projected L70 > 50,000 h.
Best for
- Home & balcony makeovers
- Hospitality ambience at scale
- Design-led installs requiring a consistent finish
Helpful links
- Festoon Lighting – strings, kits & connectors.
- Festoon Accessories – waterproof joiners, hooks & suspension wire.
Price and warranty
Pricing varies by configuration (length, bulb style and accessories). Fast regional shipping and a 30-day no-quibble returns policy apply. Warranty details are shown on each product page.
2. Festoon House premium connectable festoon lights
Why it made the list
Purpose-built, mains-powered sets with tidy inclusions for fast, neat installs—reliable ambience for homes and venues.
- Outdoor-rated construction for year-round use
- Plug-and-play power with AU 2-pin plug
- Extension lead is commonly included
Best for: Patios, courtyards, café terraces, weddings.
3. Mr Festoon Lights commercial-grade festoon kits
Why it made the list
When long runs and durability matter, these robust, mains-powered kits keep presentation tidy and uptime high.
- Heavy-duty cabling for extended runs
- Outdoor-rated build for seasonal or permanent use
- Configurable lengths and mounting accessories
Best for: Beer gardens, events, community activations.
4. Bunnings Lytworx “Aspen” festoon lights (connectable)
Big-box convenience for quick ambience; connectable sets cover small to medium spaces without fuss.
- 15 m lit length per set; many connect end-to-end
- Warm white bulbs for a party-ready glow
Best for: Rentals, pergolas, casual entertaining.
5. Fusion Lighting outdoor festoon lights
Focused outdoor range with local fulfilment and free delivery on many listings.
- Multiple styles & lengths for different spaces
- Warm ambience ideal for hospitality zones
6. Fat Shack Vintage LED festoon lighting
Design-led selection that complements both vintage and modern spaces.
- Australian-oriented range with warm LED options
- Mix & match configurations to suit layouts
7. Brightech Ambience Pro waterproof festoon lights (Amazon AU)
Marketplace favourite with shatter-resistant globes and a cosy café-style glow.
- Check: stated IP rating, length, bulb spacing, replacement bulbs
Best for: Balconies, rentals, casual entertaining.
8. Roshin 30 m festoon lights with shatterproof bulbs (Amazon AU)
One long run without joining multiple sets; marketed as waterproof and shatterproof for easy setups.
- 30 m string with spare bulbs
- Confirm: IP rating, plug type, dimmer compatibility
9. SolaGarden solar festoon lights (2025 edition)
Quick solar setup where power points are limited—hang, stake and glow.
- 15-light string ideal for small/medium outdoor areas
10. Kogan solar festoon string lights
Budget-friendly solar sets for rentals, pergolas and fence lines.
- Compare: battery capacity, charge time, IP rating
11. Mirabella Genio smart festoon lights (Wi-Fi)
Phone-controlled ambience with timers and smart scenes on compatible models.
- Confirm: outdoor IP rating, length, connectability, voice control.
12. Arlec Grid Connect smart festoon lights (Bunnings)
In-store convenience with app control for decks and balconies.
- Check: outdoor rating, cable quality, model features
How to choose the right festoon lights (quick checklist)
- IP rating: Opt for IP65 for exposed installations; IP44 is sufficient for covered areas. See our IP guide.
- Cable type: Use rubber 1.5 mm cable—it meets Australian standards and lasts longer than PVC (read why).
- Bulb quality: Choose high-CRI, flicker-free LEDs for natural colour.
- Power choice: Plug-in for brightness; solar for flexibility.
- Accessories: Use IP-rated connectors, hooks & suspension wire.
Conclusion
The best outdoor festoon lights combine ambience, safety and longevity. Whether plug-in or solar, prioritise IP rating, SAA compliance, and cable quality first. For design-led spaces, flicker-free, high-CRI light brings a premium glow that enhances food, faces and materials naturally.
To build a durable, compliant setup, start with IP65-rated, dimmable kits using rubber cabling from LiquidLEDs—supported by quick local shipping, expert advice and a 30-day return policy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Festoon Lights
What’s the difference between IP44 and IP65?
IP44 protects against splashes and light rain, ideal for covered decks. IP65 is fully dust-tight and water-jet resistant, suitable for open patios, pergolas and coastal environments. Read our IP Ratings Explained article for details.
Why is the cable type so important?
Outdoor festoon lights in Australia should use rubber 1.5 mm cable to meet AS/NZS standards. PVC versions can become brittle and unsafe over time. Learn more in Buyer’s Beware.
Are LiquidLEDs festoon kits SAA certified?
Yes. All LiquidLEDs festoon components are SAA-certified, with weather-sealed sockets and compliant plugs for Australian conditions.
Can I dim festoon lights?
Yes—use dimmable bulbs with an LED-compatible dimmer for smooth control. If flicker appears, switch to a trailing-edge dimmer made for LEDs.
How long can I safely run festoon lights?
Up to around 30 m per power feed is typical with 1.5 mm rubber cable. For longer runs, use connectable sections or separate circuits to prevent voltage drop.
What spacing is best between bulbs?
Between 50 – 100 cm. Tighter spacing (≈50 cm) creates a dense café glow; wider spacing (≈100 cm) works for larger decks or event areas.
How do I install festoon lights safely?
Use IP-rated accessories—hooks, clips and suspension wire—to support the weight evenly. Connect only to weatherproof outlets and avoid stretching the cable between points.
What’s best for coastal or humid environments?
Go with IP65-rated rubber-cabled strings and stainless or coated mounting hardware. Wipe occasionally to remove salt buildup and extend lifespan.