Why the Door County Lighthouse Festival is One of the Best Events
While Door County may be well-known for its stunning state parks and friendly locals, one of the peninsula’s most famous attributes is its collection of historic lighthouses! Nearly a dozen beacons call Door County their home, and a majority of these lighthouses are open for tours. If you find the history of the lighthouses fascinating, then you won’t want to miss the Door County Lighthouse Festival in the summer! This annual celebration explores the stories behind some of the peninsula’s most famous lighthouses, including the ones that aren’t usually open to the public. Mark your calendars and be sure you’re in Door County for this exclusive opportunity.
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What to Expect at the Door County Lighthouse Festival
The 24th annual Door County Lighthouse Festival is scheduled for this summer on June 9th-11th! Event patrons will be escorted by land and sea to all 11 of Door County’s lighthouses. The highly-anticipated festival will also take you to Chambers Island, Plum Island, and Sherwood Point, which are the homes to secluded lighthouses that are usually restricted to the public. For many tourists, it will be their only opportunity to see these unique and historic structures!
Guests will have the option to take either a guided or self-guided tour of the lighthouses. That way, you’ll have the option to experience a pre-organized and educational tour or chart your own course! Visitors will also be able to participate in the Door County Lighthouse Festival Photo Contest. Take a beautiful photo of your favorite lighthouse and submit it to be considered for the first, second, or third prize!
Door County Lighthouses
Just to get you even more excited for the Door County Lighthouse Festival, here are some quick facts about just a few of the most popular lighthouses you’ll see during your tour!
Cana Island Lighthouse: This is arguably Door County’s most iconic and photographed lighthouse. It was established in 1869 and served the peninsula’s coast for many years. Its island can be accessed by walking across a beautiful stone causeway.
Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal North Pierhead Light: It’s nearly impossible to miss this impressive red structure at sea! The Pierhead was built in 1882, received its tower light in 1899, and then automated in 1972. Today, it is fully operational by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Old Bailey’s Harbor Lighthouse: Also known as the Birdcage Lighthouse, this beacon is widely recognized for the strange birdcage-like shape of the lantern room. It was erected in 1852 and served a short term until the Range Lights in Baileys Harbor shut it down in 1869.
Can’t Make it to the Festival? You Can Still See the Lighthouses!
You don’t have to wait for the Door County Lighthouse Festival to see the region’s incredible lighthouses! Here are some Lighthouse Boat Tours in Door County that you can take almost any time of year!
Experience the Best Door County Lighthouses and More During Your Stay at The Ashbrooke
Whether you’re visiting to explore the lighthouses or simply enjoy a relaxing getaway, you’re invited to stay with us at The Ashbrooke. Our adults-only hotel provides you with everything you need for a rejuvenating and memorable stay. From unique amenities to cozy guest rooms and suites, you’ll feel like royalty as soon as you walk through the doors. Experience Door County the right way and Book The Ashbrooke for the 2018 season today! Don’t forget to download your free copy of our Vacation Guide for all the best local recommendations!
