FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS GATHERING

We recognize that holding the Gathering in Spain represents a meaningful and exciting change for our community. These FAQs are intended to provide clarity, context, and support as you consider participation.  We will share more details as soon as it’s available, especially watch the monthly newsletter.

 

Why is the 2027 Gathering being held in Spain instead of the United States?

The 2027 Gathering reflects a unique invitation from our friends, Los Amigos del Camino de Santiago de Estella-Lizarra, in Estella, Spain, along the Camino Francés. Hosting the Gathering on the Camino itself offers a rare opportunity to experience the pilgrimage in its living context—alongside the communities who care for it every day.

This is a special international Gathering designed to deepen our connection to the Camino’s roots. This setting allows participants to engage with the Camino not just as a concept—but as a lived, shared journey.

 

Who are the Gathering hosts?

The Gathering will be hosted in partnership with Los Amigos del Camino de Santiago de Estella-Lizarra, a longstanding organization dedicated to supporting pilgrims along the Camino. Founded in 1962, it is the oldest Jacobean association in Spain

They bring deep experience, local knowledge, and a strong tradition of hospitality and welcome—Acogida Jacobea—the Gathering theme.  Additionally, they operate an albergue and offer programs connected to the Camino and the town of Estella.

Our organizations share a long history of collaboration. Many of our members have served as hospitaleros at their albergue, and we have supported their work through grants and shared programming over the years.

 

How does the Gathering support the organization’s mission?

Our mission in part is to bring pilgrims together and we do this through a wide range of programs throughout the year—including local chapter activities, educational offerings, and community events.  

While the Gathering is one of our most visible and meaningful events, it is just one of many ways we fulfill that mission. Each program offers a different way for pilgrims to connect, reflect, and build community in different ways. We encourage our members and fellow pilgrims to participate in the way that is best for them.

 

Will the Gathering return to the United States in future years?

Yes. Our annual Gathering will continue to be rooted in the United States in future years. The 2027 event is an intentional step outward—an opportunity for global connection—rather than a permanent change in location.

 

Will there also be a U.S. event in 2027?

There is no national U.S.-based Gathering planned for 2027. The primary Gathering will take place in Spain.

In past years, local chapters in various regions have worked together to organize large events, such as the 2025 St. James Day Celebration in South Bend, Indiana.  These events include many elements that are familiar to Gathering attendees and are open to pilgrims from across the country.  

While these events are planned and led by local volunteers, American Pilgrims encourages these efforts and can provide support in select areas, such as insurance, contract management and registration technology.  

If you’re interested in participating in or helping to organize a U.S.-based event, the best place to start is with your chapter coordinator.

 

I’m not able to travel internationally. Will there still be ways to participate?

We understand that international travel is not possible for everyone.

We are exploring ways to share elements of the Gathering more broadly so that all members of our community can feel a part of the experience in meaningful ways. 

 

Why attend the Gathering in Spain instead of experiencing the Camino on my own?

For many, walking the Camino independently is a deeply personal journey—and this Gathering is not meant to replace that experience.

What makes this Gathering unique is the opportunity to share time on the Camino in community: connecting with fellow pilgrims, engaging with local hosts, and participating in traditions together.

We hope pilgrims will spend time experiencing the Camino outside their time at the Gathering or even volunteering to support the Camino.  The event is purposefully timed between two weekends, one a U.S. holiday, so pilgrims can plan individual experiences. 

 

Do I need to walk the Camino to attend?

No. While there will be opportunities for communal walks, the Gathering is designed to be inclusive of all participants—whether you are walking, reflecting, learning, or simply connecting with others.

 

Is this event only for experienced pilgrims?

Not at all. The 2027 Gathering will be similar in size to previous events and continues our tradition of welcoming:

• First-time pilgrims
• Those preparing for a future Camino
• Long-time members of the community

Whether you’ve walked many miles or are just beginning your journey, there is a place for you.

 

Will the Gathering be in English?

Yes. The Gathering will be conducted in English and designed to be fully accessible to English-speaking participants.

In addition, bilingual (English/Spanish) support will be built into the program to support connection and communication with our Spanish hosts and local communities, ensuring everyone can participate fully and comfortably.

 

What makes this Gathering different from past years?

The 2027 Gathering will have a more immersive, festival-style format, including:

• Time on the Camino itself
• Shared experiences with local hosts and communities
• A broad range of presenters from around the world
• Shared meals, music, and celebration

It is both a Gathering and a lived pilgrimage experience.

 

Will traditional Gathering practices and traditions continue?

We are exploring the traditions that are meaningful to our community as part of this Gathering.

While the 2027 Gathering will include new elements shaped by being on the Camino, we are hoping to include practices—such as the Cruz de Ferro, shell ceremony and presentations focused on pilgrimages, routes, and history—which reflect the spirit and continuity of past Gatherings.

Our goal is to honor what has come before while also embracing the unique opportunity to gather on the Camino itself.

 

Is this a “cultural exchange” program?

No. This Gathering is distinct from our Cultural Experience.

While there will be opportunities to spend time with local Camino hosts and communities, the focus of this event is the shared pilgrimage experience—walking, reflecting, and gathering in community along the Camino itself.

 

Will this Gathering be more expensive than previous ones?

Traveling to Spain may involve additional costs compared to some U.S.-based Gatherings.

At the same time, we are working to:

• Provide a range of accommodation options
• Keep the registration cost at typical Gathering levels
• Share planning resources early
• Highlight ways to extend your trip into a personal pilgrimage or to volunteer at one of the many pilgrim-focused opportunities in Spain

Our goal is to help attendees make informed decisions and plan in a way that works for them.

 

Are there ways to reduce costs?

Yes. We are committed to helping make this as accessible as possible. Options may include:

• Budget-friendly accommodations (albergues, homestay lodging)
• Early planning resources to secure lower airfare
• Extending your trip to make the most of travel costs

 

How is the Gathering funded, and does it generate a surplus?

The Gathering is designed to operate at or near break-even. Our priority is to create a meaningful experience while keeping costs as reasonable as possible for participants, rather than generating a surplus.

Board members play an active role in the Gathering and are expected to attend and support the event. As part of the event budget, their airfare and registration are typically covered. To be thoughtful stewards of resources, the board also schedules one of its regular meetings at the Gathering location, reducing the need for separate travel.

Board service includes significant voluntary contributions of time and expertise. While there is no financial giving requirement for board members, many choose to support the organization philanthropically as well, and in fact, are consistently among the organization’s most generous donors.

Optional fundraising activities—such as raffles and silent auctions—may be held in connection with the Gathering. Proceeds from these efforts directly support American Pilgrims programs and are not used to fund the Gathering itself.

More broadly, the organization is committed to strong financial stewardship. Historically, over 85% of expenses are directed to programs, exceeding commonly accepted nonprofit benchmarks and reflecting a focus on maximizing impact in support of the mission.

 

How does the timing of the Gathering consider other pilgrims on the Camino?

The timing of the Gathering has been chosen thoughtfully to be mindful of the broader pilgrim community.

By holding the event in early June, we aim to avoid peak travel periods and reduce pressure on local accommodations and services that are shared by pilgrims walking the Camino.

We are committed to being respectful guests—participating in the life of the Camino in a way that honors its traditions, supports local communities, and minimizes impact on others making their journey.

 

Is 2027 a special year on the Camino, and what does that mean?

Yes. 2027 is a Holy Year of St. James (Año Santo Jacobeo), which occurs when July 25 falls on a Sunday.

Holy Years are known for drawing increased numbers of pilgrims from around the world and creating a unique sense of shared experience along the Camino. During this time:

• The Holy Door at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is opened 
• There is a heightened sense of global pilgrimage and community 
• Many people choose this time to walk or return to the Camino 

While our Gathering takes place earlier in the summer, it still falls within this special year and shares in that broader energy and significance.

 

Are there safety concerns for U.S. travelers going to Spain?

Spain is a well-established and widely traveled destination for international travelers and pilgrims, including many from the United States. As with any international travel, awareness and preparation are important.

As with all Camino travel, we encourage all participants to stay informed and take simple, proactive steps—such as enrolling in the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service provides travel updates and allows the U.S. Embassy to contact you in case of an emergency.

We will also share general travel guidance to help participants prepare and feel confident in their plans.

 

How can I start planning now?

We recommend:

• Ensuring your passport is up to date
• Beginning to budget for international travel
• Considering whether you’d like to extend your stay for a longer Camino experience

Stay tuned, more detailed planning resources will be shared as they become available.