Planning Your Event at the Cross

Whether attending a special event, or just making the journey up without a special occasion, you are in for a treat. Bald Knob Mountain is the second-highest point in Southern Illinois and offers wonderful views, particularly in the fall.

Upcoming 2026 Events

Bald Knob Cross Easter

Sunday, April 5, 2026, 90th Annual Easter Sunrise Service

Gates open at 5:00 AM, Service begins at 6:15 AM.  Arrive early, bring your chairs, and prepare your heart for a beautiful morning of worship.

Helpful reminders:

  • No offering will be taken during service. Donation boxes are available around the grounds and inside the Welcome Center.
  • New 2026 Easter Sunrise Service shirts will be available for purchase.
  • Food vendors Dave’s Bagels and Fire & Ice will be serving refreshments.
  • Handicapped parking and golf cart shuttles will be available.
  • We look forward to celebrating Easter morning with you!

Meet our keynote speaker for the 2026 Easter Sunrise Service, Edward Ellis.

Edward Ellis was born and raised in Southern IL; he and his family currently reside in Marion. He joined the United States Air Force immediately after High School and retired after 23 years of service. While stationed in California, he accepted Jesus Christ into this life. During this time, he met his wife Helen, they have been married for 35 years and have three adult children and one grandchild. They serve at Purpose House Church as Pastors and serve in different capacities; they have a love for Gods people and look for any opportunity to come alongside individuals to encourage growth and intimacy with Christ.

Sunday, May 17, 2026

Annual Blessing of the Bikes

8 am – 3 pm

Bald Knob Cross of Peace will host one of the largest motorcycle events in the Midwest – The Annual Blessing of the Bikes. This event is coordinated by the Christian Motorcyclists Association and is a longstanding Southern Illinois tradition.

This event remains one of the largest annual events at Bald Knob Cross and is a signature event for bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts across the Midwest. We are excited to be hosting this event with the Christian Motorcyclists Association. We look forward to seeing you at Blessing of the Bikes 2026!

Blessing of the Bikes
Blessing of the Jeeps

Saturday, June 6, 2026

Blessing of the Jeeps

10 am – 3 pm

Bald Knob will host the 7th Annual Blessing of the Jeeps on Saturday, June 6th. Last year we welcomed hundreds of jeeps, and we expect even more this year. Schedule will be announced soon. We will have food trucks, merchandise, and collector’s items. We can’t wait to see you. Put it on your calendar today!

Past 2025 Events

Fall Colors at the Cross

October 18th & 19th

Easter sunrise

Easter Sunrise Service

Sunday, April 20th

Blessing of the Bikes

Blessing of the Bikes

Sunday, May 18th

Blessing of the Jeeps

Blessing of the Jeeps

Saturday, June 7th