The stand is comprised of 3 pieces - a decorative bottom section, middle tube section, and the lighted portion that directly connects to the water basin above it. Those 3 connect to make the center of the bird bath, and they're bookended by the water basin above and the round base below. Make sure you remember that the LED light is the top of the pole and the other short cylinder is what gets screwed into the base stand. The center of the water basin has a tiny solar square that harnesses the daytime sun, enough to keep it lighted into the evening, depending on your sun exposure direction. Ours has South and West exposure, and the light lasts well from sunset to midnight. However, the brightness is truly about night light brightness and is more decorative than functional, because it's amber hued. The center on the underside of the basin holds the single, rechargeable NiMh AA battery that's included - you just have to pull off the tag in the battery section, to get it connected. We're considering placing a solar powered water spout in the basin, but not sure if that'll block the solar panel in the center of the circular basin. To secure it from toppling, it comes with 3 L-shaped stakes that can be inserted into the filigreed base where there are plenty of openings to secure it to the ground underneath. There are cutouts along the perimeter of the water basin that allow birds to perch while drinking, so no need to put pebbles in the basin. So far I'm pleased with the quality, easy assembly and aesthetics.