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SANTA FE, NM – As the annual pilgrimage to El Santuario de Chimayó approaches, Santa Fe County reminds the public that more than two dozen public safety agencies across the region are coordinating efforts to ensure the safety of thousands of peregrinos this Good Friday, April 18, 2025.

The Santa Fe County Fire Department, Office of Emergency Management, and Sheriff’s Office work closely with regional partners to provide a unified safety response, including traffic management, emergency medical services, and on-the-ground assistance along the pilgrimage route.

Enhanced traffic patrols will be in effect. Law enforcement agencies, including the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State Police, the Espanola Police Department, Rio Arriba Sheriff’s Office, Santa Fe City Police Department, Tesuque and Pojoaque Police Departments, Los Alamos Police Department, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and Santa Fe County Animal Control, along with firefighters from various departments, will work together to safeguard the event. 

Careful planning is crucial for those intending to participate. Considering traffic congestion, consider developing a pre-planned route, check-in locations, and pre-arranged pick-up and drop-off points. Remember that cell phone service may be limited depending on your wireless carrier. 

Pilgrim Safety Guidelines 

To ensure a safe and successful pilgrimage, participants are encouraged to follow these safety measures: 

• Walk only on designated pedestrian paths and follow posted signage. 
• Wear weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and layered attire. 
• Wear bright, visible colors and reflective gear; avoid dark clothing. 
• Carry a flashlight or glow stick for visibility at night. 
• Bring sufficient water, snacks, and sunscreen. 
• Walk in groups and avoid walking alone. 
• Stay off roadways and medians. 
• Call 911 in case of emergency. 
• Inform someone of your planned route and expected arrival time. 

For additional safety tips, watch the Santa Fe County Fire Department’s video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aycDuQS4HAE.   

Transportation Options 

The North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) Blue Bus will provide a free shuttle service to Chimayo from the Cities of Gold Casino parking lot in addition to its regular route between Española and Chimayo to support pilgrims. For more information on transit schedules, visit RideTheBlueBus.com  

Preparing Roadways 

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) has taken several steps to ensure the safety and comfort of all pilgrims and motorists. Crews are actively sweeping sand, salt, and debris from road shoulders, picking up trash, trimming overgrown trees and bushes, and mowing grass along the pilgrimage routes. This week, NMDOT employees will also install specially designed signs to help guide walkers along the safest paths. In addition, team members will be stationed along the route to assist anyone who becomes lost or needs help in an emergency, continuing a long-standing tradition of support for this meaningful journey. 

Communication Partners

Santa Fe County sincerely thanks the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team and Lyman Communications for their critical support during the El Santuario de Chimayó annual pilgrimage. Verizon Frontline and Lyman Communications will provide enhanced LTE service and satellite connectivity to ensure first responders and the joint information center stay connected and operate effectively throughout the event.

Traffic Advisory 

Motorists should expect significant delays beginning Thursday night, April 17, and continuing through Easter weekend, with increased pedestrian activity in the Chimayó area. Drivers are urged to plan ahead, exercise caution, and remain alert. Law enforcement will be patrolling the route, and road closures may be implemented, including the potential closure of the third lane along US-84/285 N for pedestrian use. 

All participants and motorists are encouraged to review the recommended route and plan for a safe and meaningful journey. 

What: 2025 Good Friday Pilgrimage to the Santuario de Chimayo.

 When: Thursday, April 17, 2025- Sunday, April 20, 2025. 

Where: US Highway 84/285, NM Highway 503, Juan Medina Road (Santa Fe to Chimayó), and State Road 76 (Espanola to Chimayó). 

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