Centennial Light

Centennial Light is a light bulb at Fire Station 6 in Livermore, California, that has been burning since the early 20th century. The bulb hangs from the ceiling above the fire trucks and emits a faint orange glow through its carbon filament.

An electrician installed the bulb in 1901 at the old firehouse and moved it to the current station in 1976. The Guinness Book of Records recognized it as the longest burning light bulb in the world.

Firefighters never turn off the bulb and treat it as part of their daily routine on duty. Visitors can follow its faint glow from home through a webcam at any time.

The firehouse sits on a main road and is easy to find when driving into town. You can look through the window or step inside during open hours when firefighters are present.

The bulb has been turned off only a few times, mostly for relocations or building renovations. Scientists believe the rare shutdowns and steady operation might explain its longevity.

Location: Livermore

Website: http://centennialbulb.org

GPS coordinates: 37.68000,-121.73900

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00