On Friday, April 18, as night falls over Boston, Paul Revere will once again race through the city streets to alert colonists of the approaching British troops.
Two and a half centuries later, Revere’s legendary midnight ride continues to capture the American imagination.
The popular version may be more myth than fact: “He definitely did not shout ‘The British are coming.’ He probably did not shout at all,” said Robert Allison, a history professor at Suffolk University, in an email to the Globe. Still, it stands as a symbol of patriotism and revolutionary spirit—and in New England, where Revolutionary pride runs deep, commemorating the event remains a cherished tradition.
This year, the annual reenactment will herald the start of Boston250—the city’s contribution to Massachusetts250, a statewide initiative commemorating the Revolution’s 250th anniversary.
“We’re thrilled to launch Boston 250 on the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride… a night that had far-reaching impacts on history and how Boston’s community gave rise to a spirit of American resistance,” said Mayor Michelle Wu in a statement.
The reenactment begins at 8 p.m. outside the Paul Revere House at 19 North Square. Here’s a breakdown of special events and activities along the route.
Free open houses at the Paul Revere House and USS Constitution Museum
From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., visitors to the Paul Revere House can meet Paul and his wife, Rachel, as he prepares for his departure.
The USS Constitution Museum will stay open until 9 p.m., with author and historian J.L. Bell delivering a speech on the ride and its legacy from 8:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Lantern Workshops
From 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., participants can craft paper lanterns at Paul Revere Mallin the North End (look for his statue!) to carry during the parade following Revere on the first leg of his journey.
Additionally, wooden lanterns will be available at the USS Constitution Museum for those joining the parallel Charlestown parade, which marches to the Navy Yard to welcome Revere upon his arrival.
6:30 p.m.: Boston250 launch and free performance of “Revolution’s Edge”
At the Paul Revere Mall, a free costumed reading of Old North Illuminated’s original historical play, “Revolution’s Edge,” will be performed. Local officials, including Mayor Michelle Wu, will give speeches officially launching Boston250.
7:00 p.m.: Lantern service at Old North Church
Historian Heather Cox Richardson will deliver the keynote address. More details at Old North Lantern Service.
8:00 p.m.: Revere departs
Spectators can gather at North Square to watch Revere’s departure, and follow him in a lantern-lit parade as he makes his way to the waterfront.
8:15 p.m.: Lanterns illuminated
Two lanterns will be raised in the steeple of Old North Church — a reenactment of Revere’s signal that British forces were advancing toward Lexington and Concord “by sea.”
8:00-8:30 p.m.: Revere crosses Boston Harbor
From the Harborwalk at Langone Park, visitors can watch Revere depart from the US Coast Guard Station and row across the Charles River. Those at Charlestown Navy Yard can greet him at Pier 1 and follow him from the waterfront to Charlestown City Square.
A ticketed harbor cruise from Long Wharf, featuring costumed reenactors and live narration, will also offer a view of the crossing.
8:30-9:00 p.m.: Revere arrives in Charlestown
Deacon John Larkin and the Charlestown militia will welcome Revere’s arrival in Charlestown City Square. City of Boston archaeologist Joe Bagley will deliver a speech highlighting Larkin’s and Charlestown’s roles in the lead-up to the Revolutionary War.
9:10 p.m.: Revere rides out of Charlestown
Revere will mount a horse and barrel down modern-day Main Street, alerting minutemen that “The Regulars are out!” as reenacted by the National Lancers.
9:30 p.m.: Bunker Hill Monument illuminated
As Revere departs Charlestown, the National Park Service will illuminate the Bunker Hill Monument’s pyramidion, displaying the two flags flown at its 1843 opening. The lighting will continue nightly through July 4.
Source: National Park Service, USS Constitution Museum
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