The City of Reading is joining communities across the country in honoring American history and looking ahead to the nation’s 250th birthday through the Two Lights for Tomorrow initiative. As part of the celebration, two symbolic lights will shine Friday, April 18, from the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower.
The event commemorates Paul Revere’s legendary midnight ride and represents the official kickoff to the America250 celebrations nationwide.
“We’re honored to join communities across the nation in this historic celebration,” said Reading Mayor Eddie Morán. “The two lights shining from our Fire Tower are a powerful symbol of the courage and unity that built our nation. As we look ahead to America’s 250th birthday, let’s carry that same spirit forward—working together to shape a brighter future for our community.”
Berks County Commissioner Christian Leinbach also reflected on the historical significance of the occasion. “250 years ago the American spirit of liberty was ignited, in part, by the legendary ride of Paul Revere,” Leinbach said. “Revere’s ride was immortalized in an 1860 poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. I encourage people to read that poem, Paul Revere’s Ride, in the next few days as a reminder of the birth of this great nation. This is the spirit of America250PA Berks County.”
The lights will remain illuminated throughout the evening, serving as a visual tribute to the bravery, unity, and enduring values that continue to shape the United States.