- Categories:
- Arts & Entertainment
- Tags:
- Historical
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every August 7
- Holiday emoji:
- 燈塔
National Lighthouse Day shines a light on these iconic structures every August 7. From their vital role in maritime safety to their enduring beauty, lighthouses have captivated hearts for centuries. Visit a local lighthouse, learn about its history, or support preservation efforts to keep their stories alive.
Want to sponsor National Lighthouse Day? Learn how
Expected National Lighthouse Day Deals
As a Recognition holiday, National Lighthouse Day focuses less on commercial deals and more on appreciation and historical engagement. Many lighthouse museums and historical societies offer special tours, discounted admissions, or educational programs on August 7. Organizations like the American Lighthouse Council and the United States Lighthouse Society often host events or fundraising drives to support lighthouse preservation. Consider purchasing merchandise from lighthouse gift shops or donating directly to local preservation groups. We will update this page with confirmed live events and programs as August 7 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Lighthouse Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalLighthouseDay. Share stunning photos of lighthouses you’ve visited or historical facts about these iconic structures.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalLighthouseDay. Tweet about your favorite lighthouse, its history, or share news about preservation efforts.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalLighthouseDay. Post about local lighthouse events or share personal stories of visiting these historic beacons.
National Lighthouse Day Hero
George Washington
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Lighthouse Day
Local businesses, especially those in coastal towns, can celebrate National Lighthouse Day by highlighting nearby lighthouses. Restaurants could feature ‘Lighthouse Specials’ with seafood, while gift shops can stock lighthouse-themed merchandise. Tour operators can offer discounted excursions to lighthouses or boat tours that pass by them. Museums and historical societies can host special exhibits or lectures, encouraging community engagement and supporting preservation efforts for these historic structures.
National Lighthouse Day FAQs
When is National Lighthouse Day?
National Lighthouse Day 2026 falls on Friday, August 7, inviting everyone to explore the rich history and enduring beauty of these maritime marvels.
How many lighthouses are there in the United States?
There are approximately 700 lighthouses across the United States, with about 150 still active as navigational aids. Many others are preserved as historical sites and museums, offering a glimpse into maritime heritage.
What is the history of National Lighthouse Day?
National Lighthouse Day commemorates the signing of the Lighthouse Act of 1789 by President George Washington, which transferred control of all lighthouses to the federal government. This act established the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment, recognizing the critical role lighthouses played in national commerce and defense.
Are lighthouses still important today?
While modern GPS and radar systems have reduced the primary reliance on lighthouses for navigation, many still serve as active aids to mariners. Their cultural and historical significance, however, remains paramount, drawing tourists and inspiring preservation efforts nationwide.
How to Celebrate National Lighthouse Day 2021
Visit your local lighthouse
National Lighthouse Day calls for lighthouses, when possible, to be open to the public. If you're within driving distance to a coast, today's the day to make a trip to one of these beautiful structures.
Help preserve a lighthouse
The American Lighthouse Organization is dedicated to preserving and protecting these historic structures. If you visit a lighthouse, consider making a small donation to its operating organization in order to continue providing public access.
Paint a lighthouse
Lighthouses are beautiful and they make for great artwork. Paint or photograph a lighthouse and give your pic to that relative who has a collection of lighthouse postcards.
Why we love National Lighthouse Day 2021
They've been a beacon of light even before electricity
Originally, burning coal or even fires were used as the "lamp" or the source of light in a lighthouse. Lighthouses later made use of oil-burning lamps and finally, electric lamps in 1875.
The structures continue to stand the test of time
Located on coasts and cliffs, lighthouses are subject to storms, high winds and other extreme conditions. Yet, many remain viable and strong, even today. America's oldest operational lighthouse is the Boston Lighthouse on Little Brewster Island in Boston Harbor, MA built in 1716.
Lighthouses are beautiful
The cylindrical shape, coupled with the scenery of the surrounding coast or bay, makes lighthouses a popular photographic destination. It's no surprise — there's a quiet comfort in seeing a lighthouse standing tall on the edge of the ocean.
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