Each spring, thousands of people gather in Northeast Wisconsin for an experience rooted in faith, reflection, and community. Known as “America’s Mini-Camino,” Walk to Mary has grown into one of the region’s most meaningful annual events, drawing participants from across the country.
Taking place on May 2, the 13th annual Walk to Mary is a 22-mile pilgrimage that begins at the National Shrine of St. Joseph in De Pere and ends at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion. More than 10,000 pilgrims are expected to participate this year, marking a record turnout for the event.
What makes this pilgrimage especially unique is its destination. The National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion is the only Church-approved Marian apparition site in the United States, a distinction that often surprises visitors who are more familiar with international sites like Guadalupe, Lourdes, or Fatima. The site traces back to 1859, when a Belgian immigrant, Adele Brice, reported seeing the Virgin Mary. Earlier this year, Green Bay Bishop David L. Ricken announced that Adele Brice has been declared a Servant of God and is now on the path toward sainthood, adding even greater significance to the pilgrimage.
Walk to Mary is also the only place in the world where pilgrims can walk from a National Shrine dedicated to St. Joseph to a National Marian Shrine, symbolically connecting the Holy Family of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. The route spans approximately 22 miles, but participants have flexible options depending on their comfort level, including a 1.7-mile children’s walk, as well as 7-mile and 14-mile join-in points.
While the physical journey is a key part of the experience, the event is equally focused on reflection and community. As the Shrine Rector Fr. Anthony Stephens, CPM, shared, “In a world that moves too fast, Walk to Mary allows thousands to choose to slow down, walk together, and rediscover Our Lady as she leads them one step at a time to Her Son.”
Beyond the walk itself, the weekend includes additional opportunities for connection, including a Friday evening prayer and celebration, a sacred music concert, and a traditional May Crowning Mass on Sunday at the shrine.
Whether participating in the full pilgrimage or a shorter segment, Walk to Mary offers a unique opportunity to experience Northeast Wisconsin through a blend of history, faith, and shared purpose.
Register at walktomary.com. Learn more about the Shrine at championshrine.org.
