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NATIONAL DAYHISTORY & MILITARY

National Lighthouse Day

Explore the enduring legacy of lighthouses on National Lighthouse Day.

AUG7
Saturday, August 7Every year on August 7
 days to go
Roots
Designated for August 7, 1989 by Public Law 100-622
Vibe
A celebration of maritime heritage and community spirit
Hashtag
#NationalLighthouseDay
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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Build a lighthouse

Stack cans or blocks into a lighthouse model and paint stripes on it.

WITH FRIENDS

Plan a lighthouse trip

Pick a coastal lighthouse to visit together and start mapping the route.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Learn the signals

Look up lighthouse history and share the most surprising facts at lunch.

Plan ahead

National Lighthouse Day is observed on August 7 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Fri, Aug 7this year
2027Sat, Aug 7
2028Mon, Aug 7
2029Tue, Aug 7
2030Wed, Aug 7
2031Thu, Aug 7
2032Sat, Aug 7
2033Sun, Aug 7
2034Mon, Aug 7
2035Tue, Aug 7
2036Thu, Aug 7

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Approximately 700Lighthouses are located along the U.S. coastline
1764The oldest lighthouse in the U.S. is the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, built in 1764

The story

National Lighthouse Day was designated for August 7, 1989, by Public Law 100-622 to honor the significance of lighthouses in maritime history. These beacons have guided countless sailors home and played a major role in ensuring safe passage along coastal waters. The day serves not only as a reminder of their historical importance but also as an opportunity to preserve and protect these iconic structures.

Read the full story

Across the United States, lighthouses have become symbols of hope and resilience for coastal communities. While many lighthouses are no longer operational, they continue to draw visitors who seek to connect with the maritime heritage of their locales. From the rugged shores of Maine to the sun-kissed beaches of California, each lighthouse tells a unique story of navigation and safety on the seas.

Celebrated by communities from coast to coast, National Lighthouse Day features events that educate the public about the history and preservation of these landmarks. Local organizations often host tours, lectures, and festivals, allowing people to explore the rich heritage that surrounds these structures. Many lighthouses also offer stunning views, making them perfect spots for family outings or romantic getaways.

As we celebrate National Lighthouse Day, it is essential to recognize the ongoing efforts to preserve these historic sites. Many lighthouses are maintained by dedicated volunteers and organizations that work tirelessly to ensure their survival. By visiting these landmarks and supporting preservation initiatives, we honor the legacy of those who built and maintained them for future generations.

Did you know?

01

The Tallest Lighthouse

The tallest lighthouse in the U.S. is Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in North Carolina, standing at 198.5 feet.

02

Lighthouse Colors

Many lighthouses feature distinct color patterns and designs to help sailors identify them from a distance.

03

Automated Lighthouses

The Cape Henry Lighthouse in Virginia was built in 1881 and automated in the 1980s.

04

Lighthouse Keepers

Lighthouse keepers played a critical role in maintaining the light and ensuring the safety of ships before automation.

05

Famous Lighthouses

Famous lighthouses like the Portland Head Light in Maine attract thousands of visitors each year.

06

Lighthouse Festivals

Many coastal towns host lighthouse festivals, celebrating their maritime heritage and the role of these structures.

07

Lighthouse Art

Lighthouses have inspired countless artists and photographers, capturing their beauty in various forms of art.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesHome to approximately 700 lighthouses, each with its own unique story and importance.
  • GBUnited KingdomKnown for its iconic lighthouses, the UK has a rich maritime history intertwined with these structures.
  • CACanadaCanada boasts some of the most picturesque lighthouses, particularly along its rugged coastlines.
  • AUAustraliaFamous for its coastal lighthouses, Australia has become a popular destination for lighthouse enthusiasts.
  • NZNew ZealandNew Zealand's lighthouses are not only functional but also serve as historical landmarks.
  • ITItalyItaly's lighthouses are often located near ancient coastal towns, combining history with stunning views.

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