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Alto Pass Today
By the People, for the People
Bald Knob Cross hosts 90th annual Easter service
Thousands expected to attend the iconic Southern Illinois tradition this weekend.
Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:14am
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The annual Easter sunrise service at the iconic Bald Knob Cross draws thousands to witness the spiritual and natural beauty of Southern Illinois.Alto Pass TodayThe Bald Knob Cross of Peace in Alto Pass, Illinois will host its 90th annual Easter sunrise service this Sunday. The event draws thousands of visitors each year to witness the iconic 111-foot concrete cross overlooking the Shawnee National Forest.
Why it matters
The Bald Knob Cross has been a beloved Southern Illinois tradition since it was first dedicated in 1937. The annual Easter service is a major community event that celebrates faith, community, and the region's natural beauty.
The details
The Bald Knob Cross Easter service features music, prayers, and a sunrise service atop the 1,000-foot Bald Knob mountain. Attendees can also explore the surrounding trails and grounds of the Bald Knob Cross of Peace site, which includes a visitor's center, gift shop, and picnic areas.
- The 90th annual Bald Knob Cross Easter service will take place on Sunday, April 20, 2026.
- The cross was first dedicated in 1937.
The players
Bald Knob Cross of Peace
A 111-foot concrete cross located atop Bald Knob mountain in Alto Pass, Illinois. It has hosted an annual Easter sunrise service since 1937.
What’s next
Organizers expect the 2026 Easter service to draw over 5,000 attendees from across the region. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and seating.
The takeaway
The Bald Knob Cross Easter service is a longstanding tradition that brings the Southern Illinois community together each spring to celebrate faith, nature, and the region's unique cultural heritage.
