Imagine you’re on a boat lost at sea, it’s getting dark, the seas are rough, and you need help to find your way to shore! What could help guide you? If you haven’t already guessed from the title, we’ll offer you another hint: it’s a tall tower, and what was once lit by actual flame is now lit with electricity—that’s right! A lighthouse! A helpful and safe beacon of hope for many, lighthouses deserve their own day! Good thing National Lighthouse Day is August 7.

According to the United States Lighthouse Society’s website, “The first known lighthouse belonged to the Pharaoh of Alexandria, Egypt. Ptolemy I and his son Ptolemy II constructed it between 300 and 280 B.C. It stood about 450 feet high.” Isn’t that incredible?! You can check out their Kid’s Corner for more lighthouse related fun and activities.

And although lighthouses have been around for a very long time, many lighthouses require repair and upkeep, which is why the National Holiday has been created. So to bring awareness to this awesome structure, let’s celebrate by reading and learning more about them!