Fort Ross Fourth of July Pilgrimage 2025

Since 1925, we go on pilgrimage to Fort Ross on the observed Independence Day Holiday. The Divine Liturgy at the Fort Ross Chapel will be served Friday morning, July 4, at 10:00 am. Pack a picnic to enjoy after the Divine Liturgy. Fort Ross, one of the main tourist attractions between Bodega Bay and Fort Bragg, is a California State Historic Park showcasing a historic Russian-era fort compound. Located eleven miles north of Jenner on California Highway One, one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world, this pilgrimage makes for a very pleasant day trip and a beautiful way to honor St. Innocent, our forefathers in the faith, and the first Orthodox divine services in our part of God’s creation.

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Additional Details for Pilgrims:

– Fort Ross is about a 2 hour drive from Holy Trinity Cathedral in San Francisco, or a 1 hour 20 minute drive from St Seraphim Cathedral in Santa Rosa, traffic permitting.

– There is lodging in the town of Jenner, though services and availability are limited. Lodging should be plentiful in Santa Rosa and San Francisco.

– The gates to the Fort will open to pilgrims at 9 AM on Thursday.

– Following the 10:00 AM Liturgy, we will process to the cemetery and sing the memorial service for the departed.

– Afterwards, pilgrims will gather for fellowship — no food will be provided, so please bring your own lunch and beverages.

– Clergy are to bring green vestments.

– Bringing a hat, sunscreen, and bottled water is highly recommended.

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A Brief History of Fort Ross:
https://dowoca.org/2012/08/08/a-brief-history-of-fort-ross/

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Reflection on a Pilgrimage:
https://dowoca.org/2016/07/06/reflection-fort-ross-pilgrimage/

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2022 Fort Ross Pilgrimage Article:
https://dowoca.org/2022/07/05/fort-ross-pilgrimage-2022/