I like to leave summer-night lighting out all season long, so I just string white lights in the trees. I was excited to find that Target now has some simple white lights topped with gumball-sized clear or frosted globes, 25 lights on a string, for $9.99. Check the garden section.

Perfect timing! I also started sprucing up my rooftop deck this past weekend. I recently strung up some white string lights, but also have battery-operated lanterns from http://asianideas.com/baopla.html. Here's how I used them last Summer: http://www.flickr.com/photos/thethuyster/689421533/in/set-72157600595053442/

Don't forget Candelas. They're perfect for outdoors.

I was at Ikea looking for those lanterns this weekend but didnt see them. I did get some cute ones from Pier 1 though.

Wow, talk about summer!!!

I'm in Canada (Quebec city) and we're under 460 centimeters / 180 inches of snow.

Wish I could be as close to those summer days as you all are.

:(

There are these electric cubes:
http://www.madeindesign.co.uk/prod-Light-Cube-Mood-Viteo-reflcmood.html

And these solar orbs:
http://www.frontgate.com/jump.jsp?itemID=759&itemType=PRODUCT&iProductID=759

And these giant solar orbs:
http://www.proidee.co.uk/shop/SID_LWCJcHZzsLGVcfKjgntvVigFoZVM/F=produkt_formular/P=02_GB_HPN651307/K=02_GB_120057

I've always liked the stars:
http://www.aspencountry.com/aspen/product.asp?dept_id=462&pfid=34690

Exotic Moroccan style:
http://www.thecedartree.co.uk/ornamenta/rustic_lanterns.html

Asian influence:
http://www.westportstyle.com/outdoor-candle-holders/15783.asp

Frank Lloyd Wright candle holder:
http://www.outdoorvases.com/flw_garden_gifts_ennis_candle.htm

More here:
http://www.franklloydwright.com/browse.cfm/2,244.html

I love looking at outdoor lighting.

I agree, perfect timing - just grilled in darkness and was dreaming of setting something up.

Does anyone actually have the Luau? Reviews? I've been eyeing it but hear bad things about Vessel - problems recharging, etc. That's a lot of money to spend on a something that doesn't work when alternatives to outdoor lighting can be had for under $10... just curious.

TRUE BLUE - love those Frank Lloyd Wright things - thanks for the extra links.

Firecracker, I don't have the Luau, I have the double Candela, and they are fabulous. I've had them roughly 12 months and am really impressed with them. I'm hoping for a pair of Luaus for Christmas.

On the flipside, my sister got the children's ones (they look like aliens) and she didn't follow the same instructions I received (only charge them when they are completely drained) and we've found (after 4+ years of reasonable use) that one of them has pretty much died.

I think as long as you follow the instructions, they are a worthwhile investment. :)

I love the idea of using lantern lighting on your garden. Looks like having a summer look even its not summer.