What do I need to install Fairy Lights or Festoon Lights on a Pergola?

One of our most common questions! What should I use to install my festoon lights or fairy lights on my pergola? 

Before choosing what to use it is important to decide on a hanging pattern for your outdoor lights and then measure your space. You might find you need more or less hanging points than originally thought. 

Decide on your Fairy Light pattern:

• Perimeter hang where you follow the outside contour of the pergola 
• Fairy Light Canopy where you zig zag all the way across or create rows horizontally or vertically
• Fairy Light X shape to zone and centre say a dining table in the middle of your pergola

Measure your space based on your design: 

• Always allow for some extra length as you'll probably want a little swag in your hang. 
• If doing the row or zig zag hang, think about your spacing between rows and how many rows you will have. The smaller the rows, the more lights and hanging points you will need. 

What to use when installing Fairy Lights on my pergola?

3m Command Hooks

By far one of the most easy and non permanent ways to install fairy lights! These are also great for renters who don't want to be screwing in any hooks or nails. They are self adhesive so when you want to change up your pattern or move your fairy lights it is easy to do so. You can also mount these light hooks on doors, flat vinyl siding, soffits, finished fences, tiles and windows.

Screws 

If the pergola material allows you can also place screws and drape the fairy light cable over these. Remember you don't always need a lot of hanging points. Unless you are doing the canopy hang, you'll often only need 4 or 6 screws depending on the size of your pergola.

 

Cup Hooks and S Hooks 

These are a common fairy light installation accessory. They screw into the frame and then provide a C style shape to then loop your fairy light cable over. A great option when looking for a more permanant option. 

Cable Ties 

These are a great choice when you can weave your way around beams and rafters or drape around corners. They will help secure your fairy light or festoon light cable to your structure and also help protect it over long term use as it will reduce any swaying of the cable and keep the installation nice and tight. 

Or you may find you can simply weave and drape your fairy lights or festoon lights without any use of hooks or ties.  Whatever your style, you'll be sure to add both decor and lighting to your outdoor space while creating a soft, ambient mood that will keep you outdoors from dawn to dusk!