Celebrate spring with the annual “Tea by the Sea and Boutique” on the back yard of San Pedro’s historic Point Fermin Lighthouse on May 9, the day before Mothers’ Day.
The event is a tradition at the picturesque lighthouse in Point Fermin Park overlooking the ocean at the town’s south-facing bluffs, with many attending in period costume.
The lighthouse was designed by U.S. Lighthouse Board architect Paul Pelz in what was called the “Stick Style,” a less ornate, earlier style of Victorian architecture. Construction began in 1873, and It became operational on Dec. 15, 1874.
The bluff top structure, surrounded now by gardens and a crown jewel of what is now Point Fermin Park at 807 W. Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro, has long been a popular gathering spot. The annual tea typically draws multigenerational families and features gardeners on hand to answer questions. The gardens include roses, geraniums, hydrangeas, day lilies and hollyhocks, along with a vegetable garden.
Model T cars also will be assembled onsite, along with a boutique conducted by local artisans on the paved parking area next to the lighthouse. Handcrafted items will be featured for purchase.
A later event will also is being planned at the lighthouse on Saturday, June 13, the day after L.A. Unified schools are let out for the summer, when children, ages 5 and up are invited to create their own Fairy Garden at the lighthouse. Volunteer gardeners will lead the creative event that will provide a craft project and opportunities to decorate “pet rocks” and do chalk art. Games also will be part of the day. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The lighthouse also is conducting its annual “spring cleaning” and planting during April as preparation and welcomes volunteer help at the house and in the gardens. Email bertelsen@cox.net or text with your name and contact information to coordinate times to volunteer.
Built to light the entrance to the growing Los Angeles Harbor, the Point Fermin Lighthouse stood as a beacon for 67 years before its light was extinguished during WWII. The building was restored and placed on the National Register for its 100th birthday in 1974 (its 150th birthday was marked with celebrations in 2024).
In 2002, the lighthouse opened to the public for guided tours.