2021 Celebration. Photo by Sara Gradwohl.

2025 St. James Celebration

July 24-27, 2025

St. Mary's College, South Bend, IN

Registration is Open!

The St. James Celebration is back! Join us July 24–27, 2025, at Saint Mary’s College in South Bend, IN, for a weekend of inspiration, connection and Camino spirit.

This year’s theme, Journeys of the Heart, will guide us through engaging presentations, meaningful service projects, daily walks, music and entertainment, and the joy of gathering with fellow pilgrims.

What to Expect

  • Inspiring speakers and presentations
  • Community engagement through service projects, art workshops, and local walks
  • Pilgrim support sessions, including backpack fitting, Camino processing, and meditative walks
  • Special events, including a Basilica Mass on St. James Day on July 25
  • Music, dance, and entertainment featuring flamenco dancers and musicians
  • Opportunities to meet and share with fellow Camino pilgrims.

The St. James Day Celebration is open to all pilgrims. The the South Bend Chapter and a team of local and national volunteers are the hosts of this year's Celebration.

 

What's the Cost?

We’re excited to offer three registration options to ensure a meaningful and enriching experience at the 2025 St. James Celebration. Choose the option that best suits your needs and join us for a weekend of connection, learning, and Camino spirit.

Full Registration—$495 (Member) | $595 (Non-Member)

Stay on-site and enjoy a fully immersive experience with lodging, meals, and all Celebration activities included. You will be housed in the "Celebration albergue," a French castle-style dormitory built over a century ago.

  • Accommodations: Three nights’ lodging in an individual dormitory-style room with shared bathrooms. Linens are provided; please bring your own toiletries and personal items. There is no additional fee for a single room.
  • Community: Ideal for pilgrims who want to experience the Celebration alongside fellow attendees in a communal setting.
  • Roommate Option: You may request a roommate for a double room when registering (both must agree to the pairing). There is no discount for a double-occupancy room.

Commuter Registration—$250

Perfect for local attendees or those arranging off-site accommodation.

  • Included: Meals (excluding breakfast) and full access to all Celebration sessions and activities.
  • Flexibility: A great option if you prefer to stay off-site but still want to participate fully in the Celebration.

What's Included

All registration options include

  • Plenary Sessions
  • Breakout Sessions
  • Entertainment
  • Other Activities (i.e. Community Service Projects, Local Walks, etc.)

Meals

The talented Chef Charu at St. Mary's has planned a menu featuring delicious Spanish cuisine. If you attended the 2021 Celebration, you'll remember our delicious meals!

Full Registration

  • Thursday: Dinner
  • Friday & Saturday: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Sunday: Breakfast

Commuter Registration

  • Thursday: Dinner
  • Friday & Saturday: Lunch, Dinner (Breakfast not included)

 

What's on the Program?

We have a fantastic program with speakers and activities of interest to both first-time and veteran pilgrims.

Confirmed speakers include Anne Born, Stacey Wittig, Marty Murphy, Kathy Kehe, Meg Muthupandiyan, Greg Bennet, Karin Kiser, Carlos Rivero, Dave Hall, Tresha Mandel, Jim Lorocco, Laura Sumner and Sarah Daley. There will be a shell ceremony for pilgrims embarking on a first Camino and our own Merry Band of Pilgrims looks forward to leading us in song. We'll also have an encore presentation by the talented flamenco dance troupe La Rosa Spanish Dance Theatre!

 

We can’t wait to welcome you to the 2025 St. James Celebration! Be sure to register early to secure your spot.

¡Buen Camino!

Photos from the 2021 St. James Celebration

Rev 04/08/2025