Maine Open Lighthouse Day Shines Light On Our State
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On Saturday, September 18, Mainers can explore one of the state’s most beloved figures: The Lighthouse.
The second annual Maine Open Lighthouse Day offers a unique chance to explore some of Maine’s most beautiful lighthouses, many of which are not normally open to the public.
The state-wide event is a rare opportunity to walk inside light towers, peak into keepers’ houses, and see the wondrous views that the lighthouses shine upon.
Measuring nearly 5,500 miles and home to approximately 2,000 islands, Maine’s coastline is illuminated by 60 lighthouses that help vessels navigate the rocky coast. Of the 60 lighthouses, over 30 will be open to the public during the one-day event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Last year, more than 15,000 people attended what is the largest lighthouse festival in the country.
Lighthouses that are open to the public on Maine Open Lighthouse Day include two of the most famous in the U.S. Portland Headlight, Maine’s oldest lighthouse, was commissioned in 1781 by President George Washington, and West Quoddy Head Light, located in Eastport, is the easternmost point in the U.S.
Maine Open Lighthouse Day is made possible due to the generosity of the American Lighthouse Foundation, the U.S. Coast Guard and the State of Maine. The event is intended to increase awareness of Maine’s maritime heritage and the history of its lighthouses and lighthouse keepers. In addition to the pomp and circumstance the day provides, the U.S. Coast Guard will conduct a detailed inspection on the condition of the lighthouses.
For over 200 years, lighthouses have been shining bright in Maine. Today, some include a museum, some allow grounds visitation, some house research facilities, some have become bird sanctuaries, wildlife refuges or a nature preserve, and some are located within state or local parks.
On Saturday, September 18, many will open their doors to Mainers. And that’s the kind of public service that shines bright both day and night.
For more information on Maine Open Lighthouse Day please visit: www.lighthousefoundation.org.
