Outdoor Hanging Lanterns
Classic and stately, outdoor hanging lanterns create a warm welcome at covered entries, porches, and pergolas with weather-ready craftsmanship.
Learn moreBuying guide
How to Choose Outdoor Hanging Lanterns
Sizing for your porch
The lantern width should be roughly one-third the width of the porch or covered area. For a 6-foot wide front porch, a 20-24 inch lantern provides balanced proportion.
Hanging clearance
The bottom of the lantern must be at least 7 feet from the floor to prevent head strikes. For porches with low ceilings, choose compact or semi-flush hanging designs to maintain clearance.
Weather resistance
Look for damp- or wet-rated lanterns depending on exposure. Covered porches need a damp rating; open pergolas and uncovered overhangs demand a wet rating. Coastal locations benefit from marine-grade finishes.
Glass options
Clear glass maximizes brightness and visibility. Seeded glass adds vintage texture. Frosted panels soften the glow and hide the bulb. Choose based on whether you want crisp light or a muted ambiance.
| Porch / area width | Recommended lantern width | Minimum clearance |
|---|---|---|
| 4' (small entry) | 12"-16" | 7' from floor |
| 6' (standard porch) | 16"-22" | 7' from floor |
| 8'+ (wide veranda) | 22"-30" | 7' from floor |
| Pergola / gazebo | 14"-24" | 7' from floor |
Staff picks
Best-selling outdoor hanging lanterns
Gregg Outdoor Pendant
Foscarini
$1,025.40
Havana Outdoor Pendant
Foscarini
$1,771.59
Westlake Outdoor Hanging Lantern
Maxim Lighting
$138.35
Bradgate One Light Outdoor Pendant
Artcraft Lighting
$177.20
Cotswold Lane Hanging Lantern
Generation Lighting
$437.73
Capsule One Light Outdoor Pendant
Crystorama
$362.00
Zuma Exterior Lantern
Troy Lighting
$1,012.00
Huxley Exterior Pendant
Troy Lighting
$2,254.00
Common questions
Outdoor Hanging Lanterns FAQ
How big should an outdoor hanging lantern be?
The lantern should be roughly one-third the width of the porch or overhang. Measure the ceiling area and divide by 3 for the ideal fixture width. Ensure the bottom hangs no lower than 7 feet from the floor.
What rating do I need for a porch lantern?
A covered porch requires a damp-rated fixture. If the lantern will be exposed to direct rain or snow, it must be wet-rated. Product listings specify the rating in the details tab.
Can I use an indoor lantern outdoors?
No. Indoor (dry-rated) fixtures are not designed to withstand moisture, temperature fluctuations, or UV exposure. Always choose a fixture rated for the specific outdoor environment.
What bulbs work in outdoor hanging lanterns?
Most outdoor lanterns use standard E26 bulbs. LED bulbs are recommended for energy savings, longer lifespan, and consistent performance in cold temperatures. Decorative filament LEDs look beautiful in clear-glass lanterns.
What outdoor hanging lantern brands do you carry?
We carry outdoor hanging lanterns from Visual Comfort, Hinkley, Troy Lighting, Kichler, Capital Lighting, Generation Lighting, and more.
Do outdoor hanging lanterns ship free?
Yes, free standard shipping on all orders over $199 across Canada.
