Abstract: An apparatus and method for lighting a staircase are provided, having one or more lighting devices adapted for mounting on the staircase adjacent the treads of the staircase, controlled by pressure sensitive pads placed above and below the staircase on the floors of upper and lower joined by the staircase. The pressure sensitive pads may be installed under the floor covering of the upper and/or lower levels, or alternatively, may be incorporated into throw rugs or mats that can be placed adjacent the upper and lower ends of the staircase. The lighting devices and pressure sensitive pads may be connected by wires, or wirelessly, or a by a combination of wired and wireless connections, in various embodiments of the invention.