In 1775, two lanterns in Boston’s Old North Church signaled the start of a revolution. Now, 250 years later, museums and byways across the country have a chance to bring that spirit to life through “Two Lights for Tomorrow.”
(You can learn more about Two Lights for Tomorrow here; although this link is for Virginia, it includes information all states can use.)
This nationwide initiative, kicking off on April 18, 2025, commemorates Paul Revere’s midnight ride and invites communities to display two lights as symbols of unity, reflection, and the future.It’s a powerful way for cultural institutions to engage visitors, illuminate history, and even tie into Earth Day and National Volunteer Week.
So, how can your museum take part?
Museums: Bringing the Story to Life
Museums are natural storytellers, making you perfect hosts for “Two Lights for Tomorrow.” Here are a few ways to shine a light on history while making the event meaningful and engaging:
Light Up Your Exhibits
Place two illuminated lanterns in your lobby, exhibits, or historic buildings. Use this as a chance to tell the story of Paul Revere’s ride, the American Revolution, or even how light has been used as a symbol of communication throughout history.
Host Interactive Programs
- Lantern-Making Workshops: Invite families to create their own lanterns and learn about their historical significance.
- Evening Tours by Lantern Light: Offer special tours after dark with docents leading the way by candlelight.
- Storytelling Nights: Feature reenactors or historians sharing stories of early American resistance and communication.
Get Creative on Social Media
- Challenge visitors to post photos of two lights in their homes or communities with #TwoLightsForTomorrow
- Share short video snippets of staff explaining the significance of lantern signals in American history.
- Encourage user-generated content by asking followers: “What two things light YOUR way to a better future?”
Tying into Earth Day and Volunteerism
April 18 isn’t just about history—it’s also a chance to do good. With Earth Day (April 22) and National Volunteer Week (April 20-26) happening at the same time, this is the perfect moment to blend history, sustainability, and community service.
Earth Day + Two Lights = A Brighter Future
- Host a “Lantern Walk for the Planet”: Invite visitors to carry LED lanterns as they walk a nature trail, discuss conservation, or participate in a clean-up event.
- Dim the Lights for Dark Skies: Work with your local community to cut light pollution for one night while displaying the “Two Lights for Tomorrow” in a meaningful way.
Encourage Volunteering
- Ask volunteers to help maintain historic sites or assist with “Two Lights” events.
- Partner with schools and scout groups to incorporate service projects, like planting trees near historic sites or cleaning up cemeteries.
- Offer special perks for volunteers who participate, like behind-the-scenes tours or exclusive programming.
Be a Beacon of History and Hope
By participating in “Two Lights for Tomorrow,” museums aren’t just celebrating history—you’re actively shaping how people connect with it today. Whether through illuminated exhibits, lantern-lit tours, or community service projects,this initiative offers an exciting — and relatively easy — way to engage visitors, spark curiosity, and inspire reflection.
So, let’s light the way together…because history isn’t just something we look back on. It’s something we carry forward.
By Heidi Schlag
President, Culture-Link Communications
A nonprofit communications consultant, Heidi Glatfelter Schlag owns Culture-Link Communications. Exemplifying her company’s motto “Authentic Stories for Memorable Journeys,” Heidi helps heritage and cultural clients identify unique narratives that truly engage visitors. She then creates integrated, customer-focused campaigns that drive success across marketing, fundraising, media relations, and interpretive efforts. After playing a major role in Havre de Grace, Maryland’s War of 1812 Bicentennial and the C&O Canal National Historical Park’s 50th anniversary, she is now focused on inspiring innovative projects and creative partnerships for the Semiquincentennial via her 250th Inspiration Project. She has been a member of ALHFAM since 2009.
ALHFAM 