Electrically-lit Paper Lanterns

The most common lantern today is the electrically-lit paper lantern. It uses a light bulb and a long, electrical cord with a socket at the end. These lanterns also go by other names, such as “hanging paper lanterns” or the more simple “hanging lanterns.” The cords usually come in lengths of ten to fifteen feet, but you can get other sizes if necessary. Sixty watts is the common maximum, but higher wattage cords are available as well. For temporary sources of light, these lanterns are plugged into an outlet, run up a wall, and hanged from the ceiling by hooks. For permanent sources of light, they are usually wired through the walls and ceiling to avoid a tacky appearance.