Norman Lamps, Inc.

Fiesta light bulbs, also called party bulbs or celebration bulbs, are decorative colored incandescent or LED bulbs used in string lights and decorative fixtures for parties, events, patios, restaurants, and anywhere festive, colorful lighting creates ambiance and celebration. Unlike colored bulbs where the color comes from coating the glass, many fiesta bulbs use colored glass that's integral to the bulb envelope, creating rich, saturated colors that don't fade or peel over time. The result is vibrant, cheerful lighting that transforms ordinary spaces into party-ready environments.

The most common format is the S14 size – an S-shaped (sign bulb) that's 14/8 inches (1.75 inches) in diameter, though other sizes like S11 are also used. These bulbs typically use medium (E26) bases that fit into decorative string light sockets designed for outdoor and indoor party lighting. The S-shape with its rounded appearance is more visually appealing than standard A-shape bulbs when the bulbs are visible as decorative elements rather than hidden in shades or housings.

Color options typically include red, blue, green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and various other festive colors, along with clear or frosted bulbs for mixing into color strings. Sets of fiesta bulbs often include assorted colors – perhaps red, blue, green, yellow, and orange in equal quantities – allowing for multi-color string effects. Single-color sets work for themed events or color-coordinated decorating schemes. The colored glass creates a warm glow in the bulb's designated color rather than the bright, saturated colors that colored LEDs can produce.

Incandescent fiesta bulbs have been the traditional choice for decades, producing warm, pleasant light with that nostalgic glow people associate with classic patio and party lighting. However, incandescent fiesta bulbs consume substantial power when you have 25-50 bulbs on a string (often 11W or 15W per bulb), generate considerable heat, and have relatively short lifespans of 1,000-3,000 hours. For permanent installations or frequent use, the energy consumption and replacement frequency can be significant considerations.

LED fiesta bulbs have become increasingly popular alternatives, using only 1-2 watts per bulb while producing similar light output and lasting 15,000-25,000 hours. A 25-bulb string of LED fiesta bulbs might consume 25-50 watts total versus 275-375 watts for incandescent, dramatically reducing energy costs and heat generation. The cool operation of LED bulbs is particularly advantageous for patio and outdoor applications where you don't want heat radiating from the string lights. LED fiesta bulbs also survive drops and impacts better than fragile incandescent bulbs.

String light applications are the primary use for fiesta bulbs. Permanent or semi-permanent patio strings create inviting outdoor living spaces. Event and party strings add festive atmosphere to celebrations, weddings, and gatherings. Restaurant and hospitality strings establish ambiance on patios, in beer gardens, and at outdoor dining areas. Holiday and seasonal strings work for Christmas, Halloween, Fourth of July, and other celebrations where colored bulbs fit the theme.

Weatherproofing considerations matter for outdoor applications. Look for bulbs rated for outdoor use (not all fiesta bulbs carry this rating) when installing in exposed locations. The string light sockets and cord should be rated for outdoor use and properly protected from moisture. Even outdoor-rated bulbs benefit from some weather protection (under eaves, awnings, or patio covers) to maximize life and performance. Indoor fiesta bulbs work perfectly for indoor party and decorative applications but shouldn't be used outdoors where moisture and temperature extremes can cause problems.

Common Sizes: S14 (1.75" diameter - most common), S11 (1.375" diameter), occasionally other S-sizes

Base Type: Medium (E26) for standard string lights, intermediate (E17) for some smaller strings

Color Options: Red, blue, green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, clear, frosted, multi-color assortments

Technologies: Traditional incandescent (11W-15W per bulb, warm glow), LED (1-2W per bulb, very long life)