Each summer, Lakeshore Keepers brings our five historic Lake Michigan lighthouses to life with a full calendar of lighthouse events designed to inspire, educate, and connect guests. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning as a long-time supporter, Lakeshore Keepers offers rare access to historic lighthouse towers, meaningful encounters with passionate volunteers, and engaging stories about maritime history and preservation.
Below is a look at what’s ahead for the 2026 Lakeshore Keepers event season, including concerts, bus days, evening climbs, and family-friendly programs.
2026 Lighthouse Hours of Operation
Summer Hours – Opening Day through Labor Day
- Mondays: 1–5 p.m.
- Tuesday–Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Fall Hours – September 10 through Closing Day
- Thursday–Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
May 2026 – Season Opening
The 2026 season begins in early May as our lighthouses open one by one along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Each light has a gift shop, on-display archives, and a historic tower that individuals over 40” tall can climb for a minimal fee.
- May 4: Big Sable Point Lighthouse in Ludington State Park opens for the season
- May 11: Little Sable Point Lighthouse in Mears, Michigan, opens
- May 12: White River Light Station in Whitehall, Michigan, opens
- May 19: Ludington North Breakwater Light opens
Memorial Day – May 25
- 12–1 p.m.: Manistee North Pierhead opens to the public for the first time with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony hosted by the City of Manistee Chamber of Commerce
- 1 p.m.: Manistee North Pierhead Light opens for the season
June 2026 – Music, Community, and the Start of Summer
June marks the return of signature summer traditions.
- June 7: Beach Clean-Up at Stearns Beach, Ludington
- June 17 at 7 p.m.: Night at the Lights Concert Series at Little Sable Point, featuring artist Dave Martin
*Bring your chair or a blanket for an evening on the beach in front of the lighthouse.
- June 25: Evening Tower Climbs at Ludington North Breakwater during Beach Bonfire Night at Stearns Beach
- June 27 from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.: Bus Day at Big Sable Point Lighthouse
July 2026 – Peak Summer at the Lights
July is filled with concerts, popular bus days, and evening climbs.
Night at the Lights Concert Series – Little Sable Point Lighthouse
- July 1 at 7 p.m.: Featuring artist John Merchant
- July 15 at 7 p.m.: Featuring artist Steel Doin’ It
- July 29 at 7 p.m.: Artist TBA
Bus Days at Big Sable Point Lighthouse (12–4:30 p.m.)
- July 9
- July 16
- July 23
Evening Tower Climbs – Ludington North Breakwater
- July 30: During Beach Bonfire Night on Stearns Beach
Tip: Learn more about bus days, including cost and where to catch the bus.
August 2026 – Celebrating Maritime Heritage
August highlights the rich maritime history of our region.
- August 6–8: Maritime Days at White River Light Station
- August 7: National Lighthouse Day
Night at the Lights Concert Series – Little Sable Point Lighthouse
- August 12 at 7 p.m.: Artist TBA
- August 26 at 7 p.m.: Artist TBA
Bus Days at Big Sable Point Lighthouse (12–4:30 p.m.)
- August 13
- August 29
Evening Tower Climbs – Ludington North Breakwater
- August 27: During Beach Bonfire Night on Stearns Beach
September & October 2026 – Fall Transitions and Season Closings
- September 7 (Labor Day): Last day of summer operating hours. After this date, the lights are open Thursday-Sunday only.
- September 10: Fall operating hours begin (Thursday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.).
Season Closings
- September 20: Manistee North Pierhead Light closes
- September 27: Ludington North Breakwater Light and Little Sable Point Lighthouse close
- October 25: White River Light Station and Big Sable Point Lighthouse close
Join Us at the Lights
Lakeshore Keepers events are made possible by dedicated volunteers, generous supporters, and a shared love for our historic lighthouses. Whether you attend one event or many, your participation helps preserve these iconic Lake Michigan landmarks for future generations.
Plan Your Visit
- Check lighthouse hours and locations before your visit
- Bring friends and family to share the experience
Tower Climb Cost
- $8 for adults
- $5 for individuals 17 years old and under
- Military climb for free: active-duty service members and veterans
- Unlimited Admission to Lakeshore Keepers’ Members
Become a Member
Membership with Lakeshore Keepers offers meaningful ways to support lighthouse preservation while enjoying exclusive benefits throughout the season.
- Unlimited lighthouse admissions
- Invitations to member-only events and early access to lighthouse news
- The satisfaction of supporting preservation, education, and community programs
Join or renew your membership today and help keep the lights shining along Lake Michigan.
Volunteer With Us
Our volunteers are the heart of Lakeshore Keepers. From greeting visitors and sharing lighthouse history to helping with special events and preservation projects, there are opportunities for all interests and skill levels.
- Meet people who share a passion for maritime history
- Learn new skills and deepen your lighthouse knowledge
- Make a direct impact at one or more of our five lighthouses
Sign up to volunteer and become part of the Lakeshore Keepers family.
