These lanterns I find are quite beautiful. Mine came charged and lit up the very first night. The light dances on whatever surrounding surface they are placed by. It really is very playful and pretty to watch. The lantern itself is pretty all on its own, even when it is not lit up. I have mine on an entry table inside where the sun can hit it during the day, and it lights up on its own at night. I think it would also be beautiful outside on a table to light up and show itself off. I would buy again.