Flush Mount vs Drop Hang Festoon Lights – Which is Right for You?

Festoon lights are one of the easiest ways to add charm, warmth, and atmosphere to any space. But when it comes to installing them, you’ll notice two popular styles: flush mount and drop hang festoon lights

If you’re wondering which one to choose — here’s the good news — you can have both!

What is a Flush Mount Festoon Light?

A flush mount means the bulb fitting sits close to the cable with no drop. This style works beautifully when:

  • You’re hanging lights under a low roofline, pergola, or verandah

  • You want a sleek, tidy look

  • You need to avoid bulbs swinging too low in high-traffic areas

Flush mount cables keep the bulbs close to the structure, creating a neat, understated effect that still gives plenty of glow.

At Love Your Lights we have 2 styles of Flush Mount. 

1. Flat Flush
Perfect when you want your festoon cable to sit super snug against beams, rafters, or panels.

  • Two screw holes for a secure, tight fit

  • Creates a clean, seamless look

  • Great for permanent or semi-permanent installs

 

 

Flush: 

Ideal for when you want a flush style but you don't want a super snug fit against your structure. The one eye hole allows you to thread these through tension lines or hang over nails, hooks or screws.

What is a Drop Hang Festoon Light?

A drop hang means the bulb fitting is attached to a short stem that hangs down from the cable. This style works best when:

  • You’re lighting a large open frame or perimeter

  • You want the bulbs to stand out as a feature

  • You’re looking for a more relaxed, festival feel

The drop hang design creates a little extra movement and visual interest, especially in outdoor settings.

Mixing Flush Mount and Drop Hang for the Best of Both Worlds

Here’s the secret — you don’t have to choose! You can mix and match cable styles in one installation.

For example:

  • Use flush mount under low sections of your space

  • Switch to drop hang for open areas or over seating zones

  • Connect them together for a seamless look

Because our festoon sets are fully connectable, you’ll still only need one plug for the entire run — even if you mix styles.

Pro Tip for Planning Your Festoon Layout

  • Measure your space and note the height variations

  • Think about function (avoiding head bumps) and style (what you want to highlight)

  • Don’t be afraid to create visual variety. It can make your lighting look more custom and intentional

Whether you go flush, drop, or both, festoon lighting is all about creating atmosphere you’ll love year-round. And when you plan your layout with purpose, you’ll get a lighting setup that’s both practical and beautiful.

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