Maine’s iconic sentinels of the sea will assume center stage during the 15th annual Maine Open Lighthouse Day, which will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024. Around a dozen lighthouses will welcome visitors with free entry on this one day.

This popular event, which is sponsored by the nonprofit American Lighthouse Foundation, United States Coast Guard, and the Maine Office of Tourism, entices many thousands of visitors to explore the rich history and beautiful coastal seascapes associated with Maine’s lighthouses. Maine is often referred to as “The Lighthouse State.” Beginning in 1791, lighthouses were built in Maine to help mariners navigate through dangerous waters and numerous islands. By the turn of the 20th century, at least 70 lighthouses guarded Maine’s seacoast and river channels.

Today, 66 lighthouses still stand sentry over the Maine coast, guiding seafarers to safety. However, over the decades, Maine’s iconic lighthouses have come to be more than simply navigational aids. The historic structures are also cherished reminders of the hardihood, romance and adventure associated with Maine’s maritime history.

“The importance of these historic lighthouses to Maine is evident in the dedication of the communities and volunteers who invest their time and talents in preserving this important connection to Maine’s maritime heritage,” said Bob Trapani, Jr., American Lighthouse Foundation Executive Director, in a news release. “Open Lighthouse Day celebrates these majestic sentinels by allowing the public an opportunity to see them up close and hear some of their fascinating stories from the modern day “keepers” who know them best.”

Participating lighthouses will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. during Maine Open Lighthouse Day unless otherwise noted. Entry to lighthouses and lighthouse tours are free, with donations optional. Some parking and transportation costs to lighthouses are additional.

Exhibits at the Maine Lighthouse Museum in Rockland and the “Into the Lantern” exhibit at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath offer further exploration on the history of Maine’s lights.

For details and map of the 2024 participating sites and attractions visit: https://lighthousefoundation.org/maine-open-lighthouse-day/