National Lighthouse Day

National Lighthouse Day History

National Lighthouse Day in Canada is celebrated to honor and recognize the importance of lighthouses in the country's maritime history. Lighthouses have been an integral part of navigation since the 18th century, guiding ships through the treacherous coastlines of Canada. National Lighthouse Day was officially recognized by the Canadian government in 2018 to celebrate the important role that lighthouses have played in the country's development, especially in the earlier years when waterways were the primary mode of transportation.

The first lighthouse constructed in Canada was the Louisbourg Lighthouse in Nova Scotia in 1734. It was followed by numerous other lighthouses in the coming years, with each one serving a specific purpose, whether it was to guide ships through coastal channels, warn them of nearby rocks, or mark the entrance to a harbor. The day is marked by various events and activities, including tours of lighthouses, special exhibitions, and performances. It is also an opportunity to remember the brave and selfless efforts of lighthouse keepers, who, in the past, spent long and solitary hours manning these beacons of safety, ensuring the safety of countless travellers. National Lighthouse Day is observed annually on August 7th.

National Lighthouse Day facts

• The first lighthouse to be built in the world is believed to be the Pharos of Alexandria. According to howstuffworks, it is thought to have been constructed around 270 B.C in ancient Egypt. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and is believed to have been the tallest structure on the planet at the time, 450 feet (137.16 meters) tall.
• The oldest and still functioning lighthouse in the world is the Tower of Hercules. It was built by the Romans in northern Spain during the 1st century A.D.
• The tallest lighthouse in Canada is the Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse in Quebec, standing at 34.1 meters (112 feet). It was constructed in 1858 and is a National Historic Site of Canada.
• There are over 750 lighthouses across Canada, with the majority of them situated along the extensive coastline of the country.

In the News and Trending in Canada for National Lighthouse Day

Top things to do in Canada for National Lighthouse Day

• Visit a lighthouse. Some of the most notable are the Boston Light on Little Brewster Island, Massachusetts, and the Cape Hatteras in North Carolina. Another notable lighthouse is the St. George Reef in Crescent City, California. It is one of the most expensive lighthouses ever built in the US ($700,000).
• Visit Peggy's Cove Lighthouse in Nova Scotia. Enjoy the ocean views, explore the village and the granite rock formations around the lighthouse.
• Plan a trip to the Fisgard Lighthouse in British Columbia. Explore the historic lighthouse located in Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site on Vancouver Island. The site offers historical exhibits and beautiful coastal views.