News

As the grand finale of the 4th Annual Lexington Lantern Festival, organized by the New Legacy Cultural Center (NLCC), the projection mapping light show was a long-envisioned project that brought together history, technology, and community.

Launched in mid-December, the project was led by a youth production team of six students—three high school and three middle school participants. Together, they developed a concept that blended Lexington’s 250th anniversary of the American Revolution with the Lantern Festival tradition of wish-making. Under the guidance of mentors from the Youth STEAM Initiative, the team learned projection mapping techniques and developed the show from concept to execution.

With support from the Town of Lexington and the Munroe Center for the Arts, the team conducted on-site measurements and selected Buckman Tavern as the primary projection surface. Despite freezing temperatures, the students spent hours carefully mapping the building’s complex structure to ensure accurate alignment.

Over six weeks, the team met regularly to refine designs, create visuals, and select music. Parent volunteers also provided valuable support throughout the process.

Following a major snowstorm just days before the event, volunteers worked together to clear the viewing area and ensure audience safety.

On March 1, as a lantern parade of more than 200 participants arrived at the Visitors Center, the show began. Buckman Tavern was transformed with dynamic visuals combining Revolutionary War imagery, Lunar New Year elements, and selected community wishes collected across town.

The performance concluded with projected “fireworks” and warm applause from the audience.

The project received enthusiastic feedback from the community and partner organizations. NLCC extends its gratitude to all collaborators and especially to the student production team:

Alice Fang, Micah Wang, Olivia Feng, Andrea Zhang, Julia Zhou, and Jayden Zhou.