Chicago Celebrates Easter with Joyful Community Events

From packed church services to hospital visits and massive egg hunts, families across the city came together for the holiday.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:33am

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Easter Sunday brought big crowds and big celebrations across Chicago. From packed church services downtown to joyful moments inside a children's hospital and egg hunts in Pilsen, families across the city came together to celebrate the holiday in meaningful ways.

Why it matters

Easter is one of the most important holidays in the Christian faith, and Chicago's diverse communities came together to observe the occasion through a variety of cherished traditions and acts of service. These events highlight the city's vibrant religious and cultural landscape, as well as the resilience of families facing difficult circumstances.

The details

At Holy Name Cathedral, worshipers filled the pews for Easter Mass, celebrating what is considered one of the holiest days in Christianity, the resurrection of Jesus. On the South Side, the Easter Bunny made a special visit to La Rabida Children's Hospital, handing out baskets to children and families in the inpatient unit. Meanwhile, in Pilsen, St. Paul Parish hosted two massive Easter egg hunts following morning Mass, with thousands of eggs hidden for hundreds of children to search for treats.

  • On Easter Sunday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Holy Name Cathedral

A historic Catholic cathedral in downtown Chicago that hosted packed Easter Sunday services.

La Rabida Children's Hospital

A pediatric hospital on the South Side of Chicago that welcomed the Easter Bunny to deliver baskets to children and families.

St. Paul Parish

A Catholic church in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago that organized massive Easter egg hunts for local families.

Tyler Rush

A parent whose son Cooper is recovering at La Rabida Children's Hospital after a serious accident.

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What they’re saying

“This place has been more like a home to us than home has been.”

— Tyler Rush, Parent

The takeaway

Chicago's diverse communities came together on Easter Sunday to celebrate the holiday through a variety of cherished traditions, from religious services to acts of service and community-building events. These events highlight the city's resilience, compassion, and rich cultural tapestry.