Photo courtesy of the NJ Lighthouse Challenge
CAPE MAY — Lighthouses and selected museums throughout the state will host the Lighthouse Challenge of NJ weekend on Saturday, Oct. 15 and Sunday, Oct. 16, 2016. Challenge yourself to visit each participating lighthouse over the weekend as you tour the state to help raise funds for continued lighthouse preservation.
These majestic beacons have played an important role in New Jersey’s history, guarding mariners and protecting our coasts for three centuries. Lighthouses serve as a reminder of American ingenuity while honoring the values of safety and heroism. Visit the lighthouses and museums on the challenge for an opportunity to step back in time and learn more about our state’s and nation’s maritime history.
Begin the challenge at any of the 11 participating New Jersey land-based lighthouses, one museum and two life-saving stations, and purchase a souvenir ($2), which will be proof of your visit at each lighthouse and commemorate your participation in the event. Hours of operation for each lighthouse can be found at participating lighthouse and museum websites and at www.lhchallengenj.org, www.njlhs.org and www.visitnj.org. You can also find the Lighthouse Challenge of NJ on Facebook where you can communicate with other lighthouse fans. During the weekend, children 11 and under climb free with an adult.
The following lighthouses and museums invite the public to take advantage of this special weekend to support and preserve the maritime history of our state: Absecon Lighthouse, Barnegat Lighthouse, Barnegat Lighthouse Historical Museum, Cape May Lighthouse, East Point Light, Finns Point Light, Hereford Inlet Light (and Delaware Bay Lights Virtual Tour), Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Navesink/Twin Lights, Sea Girt Lighthouse, Tatham Life Saving Station 35, Tinicum Light, Tucker’s Island Light at Tuckerton Seaport Museum and U.S. Life Saving Station 30.
Night climbs will be offered at Absecon, Cape May and Tucker’s Island Light at Tuckerton Seaport.
For further information including directions and maps of participating lighthouses, go to www.lighthousechallengenj.org and www.njlhs.org/challenge/ChallengeofNJ.html.