Join the Annapolis 250 Commission, the Maryland 250
Commission, and Chesapeake Crossroads
April 18, 2025 (7:15-8:15pm)
On Maryland Ave. & State Circle at Lawyer’s Mall
(All attendees are encouraged to bring their own lanterns or lights!)
Join us for this free event to highlight the 250th Anniversary of our Nation’s founding. We will commemorate Paul Revere’s infamous ride along Maryland Avenue starting at 7:15. Revere will arrive at the State House stairs at 7:45pm– and tell Maryland’s Patriots they should immediately place their two lights up in the State House Dome to help spread the word of the impending arrival of British Regulars by sea. Attention will then turn to Lawyer’s Mall, where representatives from the Annapolis 250 & MD 250 Commissions share celebrations, events and programs planned across our City, County & State in the coming year. The lanterns will be posted atop the State House Dome at 8:00pm, and the City’s own Poet Laureate Jefferson Holland will then read Wadsworth’s poem “The Ride of Paul Revere. ” The event will end by 8:15pm.
One Nation! Two Lights! Three Nights!
We encourage participation over three nights of April 18, 19, and 20, 2025, at as many locations as possible, illuminating homes and businesses with two lights over the weekend to draw attention to the start of a year-plus long celebration of the Semiquincentennial – America’s 250th. The lights commemorate the well-known ride of Paul Revere and other Sons of Liberty as they signaled the approach of British troops by sea and remind us of the “shot heard round the world,” with the Battles of Lexington and Concord which occurred on April 19, 1775, and marked the start of the American Revolutionary War. The lights are also a symbol of a united future, and can serve as a reminder of all Marylander’s who cherish and aspire to protect and preserve their rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The evening’s presentation will kick off a series of events and programs throughout 2025 and 2026 that honors our nation’s history and its founding.
Attend the Friday evening event, and bring your own lantern or light; If you can’t join us, place two lights on your home or business, and share pictures on social media; Tag them with #TwoLightsForTomorrow , #MD250 , and #Annapolis250.
“Two Lights for Tomorrow” is symbolic of American vigilance, preparedness, and the spirit of community that defines our nation. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for our liberty and independence. By participating, you will join that national tapestry of remembrance and patriotism. Citizens are encouraged to reflect on what freedom means to each of us, consider their civic duty in today’s world, and learn more about the sacrifices. Spread the word and help illuminate the freedoms we as Americans have treasured and protected for 250 years.
Special thanks to the Maryland State House Trust and the Maryland State Archives for supporting this program.