All you need to do is Google "tiki torches", and you'll find more different torches than you could ever imagine, at every price. But which to choose?
If you're planning a one-night luau or garden party and are looking for some ambiance, the budget torch is best for you. Available at any hardware or superstore, these are a cheap, effective way to add a tropical feel to your event. Unfortunately, from my experience, the cheap ones don't last even for ONE night (or even one hour, see photo). My suggestion - go crazy and splurge for more than $4.99!
If you're looking for a more permanent way to add a festive atmosphere to your patio or yard, look to the more expensive, but far more durable (and pretty) oil torches. There are a wide variety of styles available (I prefer the copper torches, but it's really up to your discriminating taste). This may seem like a pricey option at first, but if you use them often, you'll go through LOTS of cheap bamboo torches, which adds up. Another advantage of the better quality torches is that they look nice during the day, even when they're not lit. When you've spent a lot of blood, sweat, and tears getting your yard to look great, why would you skimp on torches? If you just have a tiny patio to work with, don't fret - tabletop torch lights add a lot of flair on a smaller scale.
If you're a hardcore tiki torch fan, you'll love gas tiki torches (you'll find them at a lot of restaurants and resorts, too). These are gorgeous and produce a big, beautiful flame. They are considerably more pricey, but WOW - talk about bang for your buck! The propane power is efficient, too, so you won't end up spending a lot on fuel.
What kind do you prefer for your yard? Whatever you choose - keep those torches burning!
