Friday, April 18: Old North Church Signal Lantern Lighting Commemoration Ceremony

Friday, April 18, 2025 @ 6:30 p.m.
Old North Church
401 Hanover Street, Boston | Paul Revere Mall

Two hundred fifty years ago, on the night of April 18, 1775, a quiet but decisive act of defiance set the course for revolution. Under the cover of darkness, Robert Newman and Captain John Pulling, both Freemasons, ascended the steeple of Old North Church and briefly hung two lanterns. Their signal, seen by Paul Revere and William Dawes, launched the legendary midnight rides to warn the countryside of the British advance. But the light was also spotted by the Regulars, forcing Newman and Pulling to flee – forever altering their lives and the fate of a nation.

On April 18, 2025 the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, partnered with Old North Illuminated and the City of Boston, will once again illuminate the steeple, honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who ignited the American Revolution.

• Welcome – The Honorable Michelle Wu, Mayor of Boston, will officially kickoff Patriots Day Weekend, marking the start of the commemorations honoring the heroes of 1775.
• Theatrical Performance – Revolution’s Edge (check out this brief video describing the play), a dramatic retelling of the night’s events by Old North Illuminated.
• Lantern Lighting Ceremony – The historic signal will shine once more from the steeple of Old North Church.
• Reenactment: Paul Revere’s Ride Begins – After the lantern lighting, a reenactor portraying Paul Revere will row across the Charles River, retracing the first steps of his fateful journey.

Brethren and their spouse/guest are cordially invited to join M.W. George F. Hamilton, Grand Master, at the Commemoration Ceremony. Those attending are requested to be in dark suit and tie and are encouraged to wear their Rev250 apron, symbolizing our fraternal connection to the Revolution and the events of that historic night. Aprons can be ordered from the Grand Lodge Supply Office online via MassMasons.org.

Massachusetts Freemasons, please register to attend via MassMasons.org. Freemasons for other jurisdictions and non-Masonic guests, please click here to register. Deadline is Saturday, April 12.

Important Details

• Outdoor Event: April weather in Boston can be unpredictable – please plan accordingly.
• Inclement Weather Plan: In the event of rain or snow, we will move to St. Stephen’s Catholic Church (401 Hanover Street, Boston), directly across from the Paul Revere Mall.
• Standing Room Only: Limited seating may be available for those in need on a first-come, first-serve basis.
  
• Parking Advisory: The North End has limited parking – public transportation is strongly encouraged.
• No Meal: There are no meals or refreshments as part of this event.
• Click here to view the details from the Grand Master’s Office.

Join us as we commemorate the bravery, ingenuity, and brotherhood that helped spark a revolution and officially launch Patriots Day Weekend 2025.