* Tiki Torches getting a lot of attention in the news
* Late night hosts and entire internet mocked their use in Charlottesville rally
* Reclaim the torch for its intended purpose: outdoor parties, BBQs and gatherings
Long a staple of outdoor parties, from luau-themed garden gatherings to wild frat bashes, the Tiki Torch got some undeserved bad press this week, when white nationalists carried them during their “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville, VA. The internet–not to mention late night hosts–was on fire, slamming the neo-Nazis for carrying “torches from your mom’s patio,” as Seth Meyers put it.
TIKI Brand Products, the company that unfortunately found itself at the center of attention, released a statement disavowing any association with white supremacists. “Tiki Brand is not associated in any way with the events that took place in Charlottesville and are deeply saddened and disappointed,” said the company in a message posted to social media. “We do not support their message or the use of our products in this way. Our products are designed to enhance backyard gatherings and to help family and friends connect with each other at home in their yard.”
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While it’s totally unfair to take it out on Tiki, it’s also understandable why someone might have a negative association with their torches for the next few months. So if you love outdoor lighting, but the thought of a Tiki Torch turns your stomach, check out our list of outdoor lighting alternatives that shine equally as bright.
1. VMANOO Solar String Lights
These flower-shaped LED lights use high-efficiency solar panels to turn sunlight into electricity energy. They’re also easy to operate. One button turns them on, a second lets you switch between eight functions (waves, sequential, Slo-Glo, chasing, flash, slow fade, twinkle and steady on). Each strand measures 21 feet, and the water resistant design means that they won’t be ruined if it rains on your party.
2. MAGIFT Wine Bottle Lights
Suburban soccer moms finally have something to do with all those empty chardonnay bottles thanks to these 31-inch strings of LED lights, each holding 15 tiny bulbs. Turn any empty bottle into an elegant lantern simply by sliding them in (no drilling required), plugging the attached cork and turning them on. They’re battery operated and come with a two-month return policy/24-month warranty service.
3. LAREINAE Fairy Water Drop Lights
Another solar powered option, this three-piece kit includes a mounting spike, solar panel and 30 LED lights on a 20-foot string. Sunlight charges the batteries during the day, then they automatically power-on for up to eight hours after dark–and operate in two modes: long bright and flashing.
4. DLPIN Window Curtain Lights
You’ll find these LED strand lights ideal for any outdoor soiree. Each set boasts 304 lights, and the linkable design means you can connect up to seven curtains for a magnificent display. They operate in eight different lighting modes: combination, waves, sequential, slogs lo, chasing/flash, slow fade, twinkle/flash, and steady on. Simply plug it in to power-on.
5. IREALIST Ceramic Night Light
Set a relaxing mood for your next party with this color changing, waterproof LED table lamp. Another solar powered option, it detects when the sun goes down and automatically turns on. A wire-free design makes set up a cinch, and you’ll find just as much use indoors as you would outdoors.
6. BALIGHT Solar Torch Lights
Similar to their open flame cousins, but without the fire hazard, these LED torch lamps have a maximum length just under 42-inches. They’re water proof and are powered by a solar panel, providing up to eight hours of light in the summer and five hours in the winter on a full charge.
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