SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – The City of South Portland and the Rotary Club of South Portland-Cape Elizabeth, Maine will host a free community celebration in honor of the 150th anniversary of Portland Breakwater Lighthouse, known as Bug Light, on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 11 AM to 3 PM at Bug Light Park. Visit www.buglight150.org for event details.
The celebration will include speakers, crafts, games, photographs featuring Bug Light, information from groups who care for Maine lighthouses, actors dressed as lighthouse keepers, a book sale, a poetry table, and more. Music will kick off the event, and food trucks will also be available throughout the afternoon.
Bug Light, the iconic image of which is featured on the City of South Portland seal and logo, opened in June 1875. The unique structure stands 24 feet high and is constructed of brick with a cast iron exterior. The design is based on the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, outside of Athens, Greece, which is dedicated to choral music.
The City took ownership of Bug Light in 1985. The South Portland-Cape Elizabeth Rotary Club joined as a funding partner with the City to complete a rehabilitation project in 1991. Since then, the Rotary Club has managed the repair, upkeep, and maintenance of the lighthouse—both financially and with hands-on work. The City oversees and maintains the park.
Tours of the lighthouse will not be offered during this anniversary event. However, the Rotary Club invites the community to join for tours on Maine Lighthouse Day on September 13 and the Bug Light Car Show on September 3. Small groups and schools can also reach out to the Rotary to schedule a tour on another date.
Parking for the 150th anniversary event will be available both on site and at the Southern Maine Community College parking lot on Broadway, with vans providing transportation to the park for those who need accessibility accommodations.
###