St. Augustine Lighthouse 150th Anniversary

150th Anniversary

On October 15th, 1874, Lighthouse Keeper, William R. Russell lit the St. Augustine Lighthouse for the first time. One hundred and fifty years later, the 165-foot lighthouse still serves as a navigational aid for ships and pleasure boats at sea. 

To celebrate their sesqui-centennial, the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum hosts five days of events, from Monday, October 14, through Friday, October 18. Most are open to the public, some require a fee, and others require an RSVP.

Monday, October 14

Family Day

Kids 12 and younger are free. Adults pay regular ticket prices for this fun day at the Lighthouse. In addition to the regular exhibits, and a climb to the top (for all over 44 inches tall) the activities include a bounce house, dunk tank, arts and crafts, and a scavenger hunt. The lighthouse and museum will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Family day activities will go from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. No RSVP is required.

Tuesday, October 15

Members Only: Exhibit Preview

A special event for members of the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum includes a first look at their newest exhibit: Reflections: A Celebration of 150 Years of Service. This is free and available to members only, who can RSVP on the website under tickets. 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 16

An evening at the Lighthouse

Celebrating 150 years of light, this event is open to the public. There will be night climbs, activities, and colorful lights. This event is free and open to the public. No reservations are required. 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Thursday, October 17

The Restoration of the Lighthouse during the 1980s

In 1980, 16 members of the Junior Service League of St. Augustine saved the fire-damaged Keeper's House from being fully destroyed. They began a years-long restoration of the Keeper's House. Meet some of these women and others involved in this restoration during a panel discussion. This event is free and open to the public, and prior registration is required. 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Friday, October 18

Lighthouse Bring and Brag

An open discussion about the Lighthouse at the St. Augustine Yacht Club. This is open to the public and there will be an opportunity to register on their website. 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Admission: This varies by event. See above.

When: One special event a day from Monday, October 14 through Friday, October 18, 2024. See here for the full schedule.

Where: Except for Friday, all events will be at the St. Augustine Lighthouse, 100 Red Cox Drive, St. Augustine, Florida 32080. Friday's event will be at the St. Augustine Yacht Club, just across the street from the Lighthouse.