150 Years in the Making: The St. James Day Camino
Celebrate St. James Cathedral’s 150th anniversary with a local Camino de Santiago walk on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Inspired by the historic Spanish pilgrimage, this walk invites everyone to connect with neighbors, honor our shared civic history, and walk together toward a common destination.
Who is This Journey For? (Hint: Everyone!)
Open to all neighbors, families, and friends! Walk, stroll, cycle, or join us straight at the Cathedral for our festive service and lunch.
Choose Your Route
Review the paths below and select the journey that speaks to you.
- Red Route: Social Justice
- 7 miles, biking
- Explore the Red Route on Google Maps
- Blue Route: Knowledge
- 2.1 miles, walking
- Explore the Blue Route on Google Maps
- Green Route: Culture
- 1.9 miles, walking
- Explore the Green Route on Google Maps
- Yellow Route: Sacred Spaces
- 1.3 miles, walking
- Explore the Yellow Route on Google Maps
- Purple Route: Choose My own Adventure
- Choose your own starting point, theme, and pace, then meet us at the Cathedral by 11:15 a.m.!
The Day’s Schedule: Saturday, July 25, 2026
- 9:00 a.m. – Camino Begins (From your designated route starting points)
- 11:15 a.m. – All Routes Arrive & Meet at the Cathedral
- 11:45 a.m. – Processional into the Cathedral
- 12:00 p.m. – Festival Worship Service in the Cathedral
- 12:45 p.m. – Provided Lunch & Kids' Activities
FAQs
1. How do I register?
Click here! Be sure to select your preferred route and RSVP for the lunch by July 20.
2. What should I pack?
To ensure a comfortable and safe Camino, we recommend bringing:
- Water bottle
- Snacks for the road
- Comfortable footwear and/or bike
- Weather wear (sunscreen, a hat, or rain gear depending on the forecast)
- Your Digital Passport: A digital passport will be distributed via email by July 23 for you to use along the way!
3. Do I need to be a parishioner at St. James to participate?
Not at all! This is a celebration of both the Cathedral and the city of Chicago. We warmly welcome neighbors, friends, history buffs, and anyone from the wider community who wants to share in this historic experience.
4. May I bring guests?
Yes! Please bring your friends, neighbors, and family. Just make sure to register them or have them sign up individually by July 20 so we have enough food for everyone at lunch.
5. Can I participate if I have accommodations?
Absolutely. We want this event to be accessible. If you have specific mobility needs or require accommodations, please let us know in the registration form so we can help you select or design the best route.
6. Are there any kids' activities?
Yes! We love having families join us. Our 12:00 p.m. worship service is family-friendly, and we warmly welcome children of all ages to participate. Afterward, stick around for our provided community lunch at 12:45 p.m., where we will have a variety of fun kids' activities set up for families to enjoy together. It's the perfect way for our mini explorers to celebrate a great morning!