DANVILLE/WALNUT CREEK — It’s a bit like the Eye of Sauron, but real, less magical, and not at all evil. In fact, the Eye of Mount Diablo only lights for a handful of very special and worthy occasions.
And one of them happens to be coming right up!
The historic aviation beacon atop Mount Diablo — known as the mountain’s “Eye” — will shine at sunset on Tuesday, Nov. 11, in a special Veterans Day lighting that’s become a new East Bay tradition.
Local veterans and town leaders will gather by the flagpole at Danville’s Veterans Memorial Building around 4:40 pm, with the ceremonial button push planned for 5:00 pm. Organizers say the beacon will glow from sunset to sunrise.
We have no idea how the button activates the beacon atop Mount Diablo. We assume magic.
A tradition revived — and expanded to honor all who served
The Mount Diablo beacon was first illuminated in 1928 and later went dark after the attack on Pearl Harbor. In recent decades, Save Mount Diablo and partners restored the fixture and returned it to service for Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day; since 2022, the beacon has also been lit on Memorial Day and Veterans Day to honor those who served.
Where and when to see it
The beacon is visible from many points across the 925 — including portions of Danville, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Concord and beyond — once the sky darkens. It will remain lit all night before being turned off after sunrise on Wednesday.
Here’s video from a previous lighting, including interviews with veterans:
Why it matters
Local veterans helped spearhead the expansion of the lighting tradition so the Eye of Diablo would honor service members beyond Pearl Harbor observances. Save Mount Diablo volunteers and California State Parks continue to care for the beacon, ensuring it’s ready for these rare, symbolic appearances.
Know before you go: Traffic and parking downtown can be busy near the Veterans Memorial Building around ceremony time. Dress warmly — even mild afternoons can turn breezy and cool by sunset.
If you snap a photo of the beacon from your neighborhood, send it our way — we may feature it in a follow-up gallery.
