There's nothing quite like the excitement of having “one of our own” elected to a prestigious position, and Chicago is buzzing with pride now that Cardinal Robert Prevost has become Pope Leo XIV!
As the first North American to become pope (and with dual Peruvian citizenship too!), his election calls for celebration before his official inauguration this Sunday, May 18.
My dear friend hosted an open house party last week to honor his election, and it was the social event of the season for our parish!
If you’re up for planning a similarly fun and joyful gathering, here's how you can throw your own Chicago-style papal celebration, anywhere in the world.
The perfect pope party menu
My friend arranged to serve a few iconic local foods. She had a buffet featuring the following:
- Italian beef sandwiches, dripping with jus and topped with giardiniera (here’s an easy slow cooker recipe)
- Chicago-style tavern pizza (While Chicago is better known for deep dish, locals usually go for tavern-style instead, and that’s the kind Pope Leo enjoys at his favorite local restaurant Aurelio’s. Here’s a recipe)
- Chicago-style hot dogs (While it’s traditional to make these without ketchup, we won’t tell if you sneak some on there)
Since Pope Leo XIV also proudly embraces his Peruvian identity, she served some Peruvian classics:
- Salchipapas (the delicious hot dog and French fry combo) make a yummy side dish
- Arroz con leche, a sweet rice pudding, was a popular dessert with all ages
- Drinks to toast to our Holy Father: Sparkling cider or juice is fun for the kids, while adults might enjoy a glass of Peruvian red wine
Activities for all ages
Kids love being involved in party planning! Create a card-making station where children can write their own messages of love and good wishes to send to the Vatican. My friend provided cards and coloring supplies with a box to drop the pope’s mail.
Another way to include them is with the decorations. My friend had her kids construct an “Habemus Papam” banner to hang on the wall. You can find it here, along with other fun decorations and activities for your party!
Taking time for prayer
Before everyone dug into the delicious feast, my friend led a beautiful prayer for Pope Leo XIV as he took on his new role. It was an important reminder of the spiritual significance behind our celebration.
With the official papal inauguration this Sunday, this is the perfect time to gather friends and neighbors to celebrate this historic moment.
Whether you're in Lincoln Park or Lima, Bangkok or Berlin, throwing a Chicago-inspired celebration is a wonderful way to join in the global Catholic community's joy while having fun honoring his roots.
Viva Papa Leo … and pass the Italian beef!
