Arts & Entertainment
246th Revolutionary War Lantern Lighting Kicks Off Patriots' Day
Honoring Boston Marathon Director Dave McGillivray and Featuring Governor Charlie Baker at the Old North Church & Historic Site -Sunday 4/18
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BOSTON – "One if by land, two if by sea." On Sunday, April 18, the Old North Church & Historic Site in Boston's North End will re-enact the famous signal that ignited the American Revolution. The ceremony dates back to April 18, 1775 when two men hung two lanterns from the steeple of the Old North Church, the city's oldest surviving church building and one of the most visited historical sites along the Freedom Trail. After passing critical information to the signal holders, Paul Revere began his midnight ride warning rural patriots that the British troops were coming. The act of defiance that inspired a nation to collectively win our independence from Britain is a reminder of the power of active citizenship to create a more perfect union that reflects the promise of liberty and justice for all. Since the 1975 centennial anniversary of the lantern hanging, Old North Church has invited residents and community leaders to participate in a ceremony honoring the patriots who facilitated that midnight ride. This year's event, to be held virtually from 7 to 8 p.m., will feature the 1st Michigan Colonial Fife and Drum Corp, original music by Ryan Ahlwardt, a performance of the poem "Paul Revere's Ride" by Rick Taylor as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and remarks by Governor Charlie Baker and the 2021 Lantern Award recipient Dave McGillivray, long-time Race Director for the Boston Marathon. Proceeds from the family-friendly event will support the Old North Foundation's virtual and on-site programs, which aim to inspire children and adults alike to consider the ways in which they can build a more just and equitable world. Individual tickets are $25 and must be purchased in advance. To register for the virtual event, visit: https://www.oldnorth.com/lantern2021/.