Chapter Happenings – Winter 2025
Following are highlights from just a few of the nearly 60 American Pilgrims chapters across the country. Learn more about our chapters and visit the events calendar for the latest on what our chapters are up to.
Helipad Holiday Hike & Hot Chocolate
by Tina Strickler | Valley of the Sun Chapter
The Valley of the Sun Chapter in Phoenix, AZ, met on December 15 for a four-mile hike to see the Christmas tree placed annually at the top of South Mountain’s Helipad Hill. At the summit, the group—the chapter’s largest turnout—added a chapter ornament to the tree already festooned with decorations from other visitors. Following the hike, the group drove by the Ahwatukee Christmas Lights along Chandler Boulevard in Phoenix. Pilgrims returned in time to see a beautiful moonrise followed by hot chocolate, holiday-themed door prizes donated by chapter members, and a map highlighting a few epic holiday light displays in the vicinity.
Holiday Parade
by Andy Allen | Central Coast Chapter
Some 25 pilgrims from the Central Coast Chapter of California walked together on December 6 in the 48th San Luis Obispo Holiday Parade. They managed to pull off a synchronized (sort of!) trekking pole routine as they made their way along the parade route.
Bringing the Gifts of the Camino Home
by Roni Jackson-Kerr | Okies on the Camino Chapter
The Okies on Camino Chapter in Oklahoma met December 7 for a lively and enlightening discussion on the gifts of the Camino and ways to keep the pilgrim spirit alive back home.
Urban Walk & Autumn Gathering
by Amy Horton | St. Louis Chapter
St. Louis pilgrims Carla Hegre and Mark Ochanpaugh generously welcomed the St. Louis Chapter to their home for an autumn gathering to celebrate the return of St. Louis pilgrims who embarked on a Camino in 2024. Prior to sharing a potluck meal and pilgrim fellowship at their home, Mark guided the group on a six-mile walk through their Tower Grove East neighborhood of St. Louis. Following the meal, attendees gathered in a circle to share two-minute tales from their Caminos.
Welcome Home
by Andy Allen | Central Coast Chapter
The Central Coast Chapter of California held its annual Welcome Home Potluck on November 2. With nearly 50 pilgrims in attendance, the group enjoyed great food, fun, and a chance to better get to know their fellow pilgrims. Pilgrims returning from 2024 Caminos were acknowledged with a “welcome home” gift, including a chapter button and tips for re-integrating into life back home. Pilgrims were also invited to share two-minute Camino stories and a rep from their local REI store (a first-time returning pilgrim), provided special discount vouchers to attendees.
Spanish Wine Tasting
by Kiki Lawson | North Texas Chapter
The North Texas Chapter, which serves the Dallas-Ft. Worth area, hosted its popular annual wine tasting event on October 19. The group blind-tasted a variety of Spanish wines and had a great time picking a favorite—a Rioja won.
