What's the Difference Between String Festoon and Drop Festoon Lighting?

Festoon lighting is a vital production element for many events, and, in particular, weddings. These lights boast various colours and styles, making them highly versatile and well-suited to almost any event.

There are two main types of festoon lighting used in the events industry, string festoon lighting and drop festoon lighting. If you are in the midst of planning an event, it can be helpful to know the difference between these festoon lights and understand how each of their characteristics might be more appropriate for your event.

So, with that in mind, let's look at the differences between string festoon lighting and drop festoon lights.

What is String Festoon Lighting?

String festoon lighting refers to lights joined together by a long cable with bulbs hanging directly from the cable at specific intervals. Depending on your requirements, these gaps can be as short as 50mm or as long as 500mm.

In many ways, they are similar to fairy lights. However, string festoon lights tend to use much bigger bulbs, and these oversized bulbs are often replaceable and interchangeable. The colours are varied too. You can choose to have bright white LED bulbs, or other versions that look akin to Edison bulbs, emitting a warm orange glow.

With string festoon lights covered, let's tell you more about drop festoon lights and how they differ.

What Are Drop Festoon Lights?

Drop festoon lights are very similar to string festoon lights. However, with drop festoon lights, rather than have bulbs hanging directly from one cable, these bulbs are attached to an additional vertical cable that allows the bulb to "drop" as far as you would like.

So rather than having your festoon lighting up high or in a canopy format, drop festoon lights allow you to run bulbs right down to head height, above a table or even lower. You can also vary the cable lengths on your festoon lights if you want to alternate between a high-up festoon light and one that is low-down.

These lower-hanging droplights are popular for events with dining elements such as gala dinners and weddings, and they offer a rustic touch to proceedings. You may well have noticed these lighting fixtures at bars and restaurants recently as they are very much in vogue.

Which Type of Festoon Lighting Should I Choose for My Event?

The specific style of festoon light you choose will depend on several factors, such as the type of event, the style you are aiming for, the nature of your chosen venue, and your overall budget. While string lighting is cheaper and offers excellent flexibility, drop festoon lights can deliver a much more significant impact on your décor and ambience.

In short, you're unlikely to go wrong with festoon lighting for your event, irrespective of your choices. However, it's an excellent idea to seek advice from an experienced event supplier who can advise you on the best choices for your specific circumstances. You can hire both stranded & drop festoon from Fête24 standard from just 2€ per meter.