Daley Plaza hosts 19th annual Easter Sunrise service

The Easter message will be delivered by Pastor Juan Carlos Callan of New Life Albany Park.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:52am

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Early-morning Easter celebrations were hosted in downtown Chicago on Sunday, with the 19th annual Easter Sunrise Service taking place at Daley Plaza. The service is a non-denominational event that brings hundreds of faithful members to pray and reflect on Easter Sunday. The Easter message will be given by Pastor Juan Carlos Callan of New Life Albany Park.

Why it matters

The annual Easter Sunrise service at Daley Plaza is a longstanding tradition that brings the Chicago community together to celebrate the holiday. It reflects the city's diverse religious landscape and the importance of public spaces for communal observances.

The details

The Easter Sunrise service at Daley Plaza began at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday. Observances started on Holy Thursday when a 15-foot cross was raised at the plaza. Different groups have sponsored the "Cross on the Plaza" event in the days leading up to Easter each year.

  • The Easter Sunrise service at Daley Plaza has been held annually for 19 years.
  • Observances began on Holy Thursday when a 15-foot cross was raised at Daley Plaza.

The players

Pastor Juan Carlos Callan

The pastor of New Life Albany Park who will deliver the Easter message at the Daley Plaza service.

Fourth Presbyterian Church

A historic Chicago church that hosted three worship services on Easter Sunday, including a sunrise service at Oak Street Beach.

Rev. Dr. Camille Cook Howe

The new senior pastor at Fourth Presbyterian Church who will mark her first Easter in that role.

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What they’re saying

“The Easter message will be given by Pastor Juan Carlos Callan of New Life Albany Park.”

— Pastor Juan Carlos Callan, Pastor, New Life Albany Park

The takeaway

The annual Easter Sunrise service at Daley Plaza is a cherished tradition that brings the diverse Chicago community together to celebrate the holiday through prayer, reflection, and community observance. It highlights the city's vibrant religious landscape and the importance of public spaces for shared cultural experiences.