This year marks the 20th anniversary of the relocation of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse/NPS file

You can begin heading to the roof of Cape Hatteras National Seashore on April 19 when the Bodie Island and Cape Hatteras lighthouses be open for climbing this year.

That first day of the season, April 19, will be free for those wishing to climb to the top of either lighthouse. Free tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and can only be obtained in person, that day, on site.

During the climbing season, which runs through October 14, ticket sales at each location begin daily at 9 a.m., with the last tickets sold at 4:30 p.m. For more information on regular climbing ticket prices, rules, and safety information, go to https://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/lighthouseclimbs.htm.

Full Moon Tours

Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be offered on June 17, July 16, August 15, and September 14. Tickets for the full moon climbs can be purchased at www.recreation.gov starting at 10 a.m. three days prior to each tour date.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Move Anniversary

Over a remarkable 23-day period in 1999, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse was moved 2,900 feet to help protect it from an encroaching Atlantic Ocean shoreline. The lighthouse has served as an aid to navigation since 1870.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the “move of the century,” Cape Hatteras National Seashore will present daily interpretive programs on the epic journey the lighthouse made in the summer of 1999. Meet Seashore staff at the Hatteras Island Visitor Center Pavilion at 10:30 a.m. to hear the 20-minute program. The daily programs begin May 3 and continue through October 14.

During the 23 days of the lighthouse move anniversary (June 17-July 9), additional interpretive programs and a special anniversary event will be held. More details to be announced soon.