15 Mason Jar Lighting Ideas for Backyard & Events (Easy DIY)
15 Mason Jar Lighting Ideas for Backyard & Events
You’ve got an event coming up. Or maybe you just want your backyard to feel cozier.
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Either way, you need lighting that looks good without costing a fortune.
Mason jar lights solve that problem.
I’ve helped friends set up lighting for weddings, birthday parties, and simple backyard hangouts. Mason jars always get compliments.
They’re cheap. They’re easy. And they actually work.
This guide is for homeowners, DIY beginners, and anyone planning an outdoor event. If you want warm, inviting light without hiring a professional, keep reading.
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Why Mason Jar Lights Work So Well
Mason jars are everywhere.
You can grab them at Walmart for under two dollars each. Or check thrift stores for even better deals.
They’re durable. They handle weather. And the glass creates a soft glow that looks intentional.
I’ve seen people spend hundreds on fancy outdoor fixtures. Then their neighbor puts up mason jar lights and gets more attention.
It’s not about the price. It’s about the warmth.
15 Easy Mason Jar Lighting Ideas
Hanging Ideas (1-5)
1. Simple Wire Hangers
Wrap copper wire around the jar rim. Hang from tree branches.
2. Rope-Wrapped Tops
Add jute rope for a rustic farmhouse look. Works great for barn weddings.
3. Mason Jar Chandeliers
Group five jars together with chains. Hang above your outdoor table.
4. String Light Clusters
Drop LED fairy lights inside each jar. String them across your fence.
5. Shepherd’s Hook Display
Use garden hooks to hang jars at different heights along walkways.
Table & Ground Ideas (6-10)
6. Citronella Candle Jars
Add citronella oil and a floating wick. Doubles as bug repellent.
7. Sand-Filled Luminaries
Pour two inches of sand inside. Set a tea light on top.
8. Solar Lid Lights
Replace regular lids with solar-powered versions. No wires needed.
9. Painted Ombre Jars
Spray paint jars in gradient colors. Let candlelight glow through.
10. Flower-Filled Candle Jars
Add dried flowers around a battery candle. Perfect for dinner parties.
Event-Specific Ideas (11-15)
11. Wedding Aisle Markers
Line the aisle with hanging jars. Fill with fairy lights and greenery.
12. Birthday Party Centerpieces
Add colored tissue paper inside for themed glow.
13. Holiday Displays
Paint jars white. Add snowflake stickers for winter events.
14. Graduation Party Lights
Tie ribbons in school colors around each jar.
15. Camping Ground Markers
Use them to light pathways at outdoor camping parties.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Basic Mason Jar Lights
Here’s the simplest version that works every time.
Materials:
- Mason jars (any size)
- LED fairy lights (battery-powered)
- Wire or twine for hanging
Steps:
Clean your jars thoroughly. Old residue blocks light.
Drop a 20-count LED string into each jar. Leave the battery pack outside.
Wrap wire around the jar rim twice. Twist to secure.
Create a loop for hanging.
Test in the dark before your event.
That’s it. Takes maybe five minutes per jar.
I made 30 of these for my sister’s engagement party. Total cost was under $50.
Real Examples That Worked
My neighbor Sarah used painted mason jars for her daughter’s outdoor birthday party.
She sprayed them pink and added flameless candles. The kids loved them.
At a local community event, volunteers hung 100 jars across the park pavilion. They used solar lids from Target. Zero cords. Zero hassle.
And my own backyard? I have 12 jars hanging from my pergola year-round. They’ve survived two years of storms.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using real candles in closed jars.
Heat builds up. Glass can crack. Stick with LED options.
Buying cheap batteries.
Dead lights ruin the vibe. Get quality batteries from trusted brands.
Hanging jars too high.
Nobody sees them. Keep them at eye level or slightly above.
Skipping the test run.
Always check your setup before guests arrive.
Overcrowding your space.
Less is more. Give each jar room to shine.
FAQs
What type of lights work best in mason jars?
Battery-powered LED fairy lights. They’re safe, bright, and last for hours.
Can mason jar lights stay outside permanently?
Yes, if you use outdoor-rated materials. Solar lids work great for permanent setups.
How many mason jars do I need for a backyard party?
Plan for one jar per six feet of space. A 20×20 area needs around 12-15 jars.
Where can I buy mason jars in bulk?
Try Amazon, Walmart, or restaurant supply stores for the best bulk prices.
Are mason jar lights safe around children?
Yes, when using LED or battery-powered options. Avoid open flames.
Mason jar lighting isn’t complicated.
It’s affordable. It’s customizable. And it actually looks beautiful.
Start with five jars. See how it feels.
You’ll probably want more.
