St. James the Greater was one of Jesus’ first apostles and is known as the patron saint of pilgrims and travelers. His feast day on July 25 is a wonderful opportunity to inspire children to learn about pilgrimage, adventure, and faith.
Here are some simple, meaningful, and hands-on ways to celebrate at home!
Make a Pilgrim’s Backpack Craft
Our printable pilgrim’s backpack craft invites kids to color, cut out, and assemble a fun symbol of St. James’ journeys. As they build their backpack, share stories about St. James and the famous pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago, which many still walk today.
Enjoy Spanish Food
Celebrate St. James with a Spanish-themed meal! Here are some family-friendly ideas to bring a taste of Spain to your table:
- Spanish tortilla (potato omelet)
- Churros with chocolate dipping sauce
- Tapas-style small plates
If Spanish food is too hard to pull off, try madeleines, shell shaped cookies. The seashell is a symbol of pilgrims.
Take a Pilgrimage Near You
You don’t have to travel far to take a pilgrimage! Use this feast day to explore a nearby church, shrine, or sacred place in your diocese. Whether it’s a walk to a local chapel or a visit to a special prayer spot, make the day an adventure of faith and discovery.
Talk with your children about what it means to go on a pilgrimage—journeying not only in distance but also in the heart toward Jesus.
Go Stargazing
One of the symbols of St. James is the scallop shell, often connected with the stars that guide pilgrims on the Camino. On this feast day, take some time in the evening to go outside and look up at the stars.
You can bring blankets and talk about how the stars have guided travelers for centuries, just as faith guides us on our own life journeys.
