Sen. Chris Johnson, D-Somerville, is encouraging Maine residents and visitors to participate in the state’s annual Open Lighthouse Day on Saturday, Sept. 10.

Open Lighthouse Day sees lighthouses throughout the state opened to the public for visits, free of charge, however, should transport by boat be necessary the boat company will charge a fee.

The event, now in its eighth year, is sponsored by the United States Coast Guard, the Maine Office of Tourism and the American Lighthouse Foundation.

“Lighthouses are more than just a beacon for mariners,” said Sen. Johnson. “They are symbolic of our state’s nautical heritage, and an icon of Maine's brand. As the senator for several coastal communities with lighthouses, this day may also bring additional visitors to local businesses.”

The daylong event draws up to 18,000 visitors annually. All participating lighthouses will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

According to Maine Tourism, Maine has more coastal lighthouses than any other state and is often referred to as "The Lighthouse State." Beginning in 1791, lighthouses were built to help navigate mariners through dangerous waters and Maine's many small islands, ledges and shoals. By the turn of the 20th century, at least 70 lighthouses guarded Maine's coast, deepest rivers and even one lake. Today, 64 of these lighthouses still stand.

Go to www.visitmaine.com for itineraries, packages and participating lighthouses. For comprehensive information, visit www.lighthousefoundation.org/openlighthouseday.htm.