Join Hike Leader David Bennett for an approx. 5 mile (10 mile round trip, if desired) hike on the Bethesda Trolley Trail and other hard surfaces. The group will return on foot or by metro from Bethesda station. After the hike, around noon, the group can share tapas at Guardado’s Restaurant (a favorite of the…

We cordially invite all first time pilgrims (and those who wish to celebrate them) to participate. The pilgrim shell ceremony is an age-old tradition that is practiced all over the world. Pilgrims will be presented with a scallop shell to wear on their backpack, identifying them to all they meet as fellow pilgrims. If you…

Join Hike Leader Dottie Bumb on a 7.5-mile hike through Black Hill Regional Park. The park has more than 2,000 acres of land to explore including spectacular views of Little Seneca Lake. The group will hike the outer natural surface loop plus the out and back on paved trails. The natural surface trail has rocks…

Join Chapter member Marty Menez for a coffee conversation. The coffee klatsch is an opportunity for pilgrims and Camino enthusiasts to share experiences, advice, questions, and stories. Limited to 15 persons. Meeting Point: Panera Bread. 3201 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Join Chapter Coordinator Faroll Hamer and chapter members for a coffee conversation about the camino. For those who want to continue the conversation, we will walk to the Sligo Creek Trail around 11 am for an out-and-back as far as you see fit. Meeting point: Zinnia Restaurant. 9201 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

Join Chapter Coordinator Jim Larocco for a 4-mile (2 hour) loop hike in Old Town Alexandria to celebrate Alexandria’s Revolutionary War history. For those who wish to return to their cars after the ceremony (~3 miles), Jim will return to S. Payne St. past historical sites such as Washington’s only residence in Old Town. Some…

Chapter members Jeannie Semaan and Dianne Bobowski will share reflections on the University of Santiago de Compostela’s (USC) immersive experiential learning program in Santiago. This partnership between American Pilgrims and USC offers American Pilgrim members customized insight into Spanish language, history, culture, and the Camino. Jeannie and Dianne will talk about their time in Spain,…

Join Chapter Coordinator Faroll Hamer and camino friends at 9:30am for a coffee conversation in Maryland. For those who want to continue the conversation, we will walk to the Sligo Creek Trail around 11 am for an out-and-back as far as you see fit.

Join fellow chapter participants and pilgrims for our biggest Chapter event of the year! In addition to a potluck featuring wonderful Spanish food, wine, and beverages, this year we’ll also have a free book and gear exchange. Bring your favorite snack, book, and ideas to share! See full announcement in the Capital Area Newsletter for…

Our annual potluck featuring wonderful Spanish food, wine, and beverages will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 1-4pm at St. Mary’s Church (5222 Sideburn Road) in Fairfax, VA. Bring your favorite Spanish dish (hors d’oeuvre, entree, dessert, or anything else you would like) and/or beverage (including Spanish wine or beer) to share with…