This year marks the sixth annual Summer Lighthouse celebration, and the 126th anniversary of Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse.

The celebration began in 1995 when the U.S. Postal service chose Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse to represent the lighthouses of Lake Ontario. It was the beginning for the Friends of Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse, a not for profit group formed to restore the lighthouse to its former glory.

Much has been accomplished, from the first structural study, to restoration of a functioning light within the tower in 1998. The interior has been restored, photos reproduced and displays assembled. The upstairs has been renovated, and as of 2001, can be rented by the week.

The celebration kicks off with a presentation by Jim Fischer, well known lecturer about the Great Lakes. His topic "Shipwrecks of the War of 1812" will be presented at the auditorium of Barker Central School, 1628 Quaker Road, Barker on Saturday evening, July 7 at 7:30 p.m.

On Sunday morning, July 8, festivities begin at 11 a.m. at Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse at Golden Hill State Park, Lower Lake Road, Barker.

Entertainment includes City Fiddle, Magician Mike Baron, and Bless the Beasts wildlife rehabilitation program.

The Barker Lions Club will host a chicken dinner and baked goods.

For history buffs, Revolutionary War re-enactors will set up their display and shoot their cannon over the lake. Antique and classic cars will also be on hand for the automobile aficionados. The second annual yacht "Race to Thirty Mile Point" will also be held.

Tours of the lighthouse will be continuous throughout the day, and gifts with a lighthouse or nautical theme will be offered. Admission to the event is free.