✝️🎥 **Capture the 49th Annual Pilsen Via Crucis: Living Way of the Cross** 📸✝️ *49th Annual Pilsen Via Crucis: Living Way of the Cross, a tradition in the Pilsen neighborhood since 1977* To celebrate a longstanding Chicago tradition, thousands gather along **18th Street in Pilsen every Good Friday** for the **Pilsen Via Crucis (Living Way of the Cross)** — a powerful, moving reenactment of the Passion of Christ that has taken place **every year since 1977**. I’ve attended this event several times and find it deeply inspiring. Whether you’re religious or not, this is truly something to experience in person — just for the **incredible photography and cultural significance alone**. **📅 Event Details** 🗓 **Date:** **Friday, April 3, 2026 (Good Friday)** ⏰ **Time:** **8:45 AM – approx. 2:30 PM** *(end time flexible & weather dependent)* 📍 **Meet Location:** **799 W. 18th Street, Chicago** 🚶 **Walking Distance:** Approx. **1.5–2 miles**, mostly outdoors 🔔 **Please arrive by 8:45 AM** so we can get positioned before the opening scenes begin. *** **⚠️ IMPORTANT – PLEASE READ ⚠️** **THIS IS A MOSTLY OUTDOOR EVENT WITH CONTINUOUS WALKING.** We will be following the procession on foot for much of the route. 🧥 **Dress for the weather** (layers, comfortable shoes, rain gear if needed) 🚶‍♀️ Expect **standing, walking, and slow movement with large crowds** 🌦️ Event is **rain or shine** — however, **if conditions are very cold or heavy rain**, the host may cancel for safety and comfort 👉 **NO PARKING on 18th Street during the procession.** If driving, plan ahead — the procession **does NOT end where we start**, and you will need to walk back to your car unless you park strategically. ⏱️ **Timing:** I don’t know the exact timing of each station, but plan **about 2.5 hours** if you want to see the entire reenactment. We may not stay for the full event, but we’ll try to see most of it and then **end with lunch in Pilsen** before restaurants get overwhelmed.