Help Centre County Shine Bright for “Two Lights for Tomorrow” on April 18, 2025

– by Thomas Range II

On April 18, 2025—exactly 250 years after Paul Revere’s historic midnight ride—Centre County will have a unique opportunity to join a nationwide moment of reflection, unity, and inspiration.

Philipsburg Mud Church 200 YEARS ecs DSC 9061 copy TWO LANTERNS EVENT

As part of the America250PA commemoration, we’re inviting organizations, businesses, and individuals throughout Happy Valley to participate in Two Lights for Tomorrow, a powerful symbolic initiative inspired by the “two if by sea” lantern signal of 1775. Just as that iconic beacon once called a community to action, so too can our lights honor the past and guide the way toward a hopeful future.

Across the country, civic buildings, landmarks, homes, and historic sites will be lit with two lights—a simple but stirring tribute. In Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania Capitol will be illuminated. Here in Centre County, the real impact comes when we shine together.

Here’s how to get involved in Happy Valley:

  • Light the Way: Display two lights at your business, organization, public building, or historic site.
  • Engage the Community: Encourage neighbors, colleagues, and local groups to participate—whether they light their homes, host a small gathering, or take a quiet moment to reflect.
  • Tell Your Story: Share your photos and videos using hashtags like #TwoLightsForTomorrow, #TL4T, and #America250PA. Don’t forget to tag @America250PA so your contribution can be featured and amplified.

Participation is easy, flexible, and meaningful. There’s no one way to take part—just a shared commitment to unity, remembrance, and hope. Please follow all local ordinances and safety guidelines.

The Semiquincentennial is a once-in-a-generation moment to reflect on who we are, what we’ve built together, and where we’re going next.

Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA

“The Semiquincentennial is a once-in-a-generation moment to reflect on who we are, what we’ve built together, and where we’re going next,” said Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA. “As we prepare to illuminate the Capitol and landmarks across the Commonwealth, we’re sending a clear message: Pennsylvania shows up—with pride, with purpose, and with a belief in the power of community.”

Here in Centre County, we’ve led the way with creative, inclusive America250PA efforts—from public events and exhibitions to historic preservation and community storytelling. Two Lights for Tomorrow is our next opportunity to connect the past and the future—and to remind the rest of the Commonwealth that Centre County leads with heart.

A special thanks to our partners at Virginia250 for launching this meaningful initiative. You can learn more about the idea and its origins at va250.org/two-lights

CentreCounty.America250PA.org

The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau publishes up-to-date event information at HappyValley.com/events