Attendees of the Via Crucis watch the reenactment take place from their doorstep on Friday, April 3, 2026 in Pilsen. This marks the 49th year that the procession has taken place.
Hundreds of people watched the Via Crucis in Pilsen on Friday, April 3, a tradition that has been going on for 49 years.
The procession started at 18th Street and Halsted Street, walking a mile and ending in Harrison Park with a portrayal of Jesus’ death on the cross. There is a closing prayer at Saint Pius Church.
According to organizers, the Catholic Church wanted to get more people involved this year, extending the role of Jesus to a DePaul University student, Kevin Reyes.
It was organized by three Little Village Catholic churches: St. Agnes of Bohemia, Cristo Rey Parish and Mother of the Americas.
Hundreds gather to watch the Via Crucis in Pilsen on Friday, April 3, 2026. The procession included a 1 mile walk to the reenactment of the crucifixion, ending with a closing prayer at St. Pius Church. (Sebastian Alarcon)Kevin Reyes acts as Jesus during the Via Crucis on Friday, April 3, 2026. Volunteers prepared for about two months. (Sebastian Alarcon)Actors walk to Harrison Park doing the 14 stations of the cross on Friday, April 3, 2026. This has been an ongoing event since 1977. (Sebastian Alarcon)Hundreds watch at La Villita Park of the crucifixion reenactment on Friday, April 3, 2026. Around 150 people volunteered to organize the event. (Sebastian Alarcon)Community members watch as the Via Crucis goes on in Pilsen on Friday, April 3, 2026. It was organized by three Little Village Catholic churches: St. Agnes of Bohemia, Cristo Rey Parish and Mother of the Americas. (Sebastian Alarcon)The procession continues on reenacting the last supper on Friday, April 3, 2026. Many individuals were praying throughout the procession.
