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Hundreds of people braved rain, cold and wind in Old Town Alexandria on Feb. 9 to welcome Buddhist monks nearing the end of a 2,300-mile “Walk for Peace” to Washington, D.C.

The monks began their nationwide pilgrimage in October at a Vietnamese Buddhist temple in Fort Worth, Texas. By the time they reached Alexandria on the 107th day of the journey, they had traveled 2,122 miles.

Residents lined South Washington Street and gathered near Christ Church with signs and gifts. Many quietly reflected as the procession passed, while city officials coordinated rolling road closures along the George Washington Parkway and through Old Town.

At Christ Church, Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara urged attendees to slow down through mindful breathing and reconnect with the rhythm of their heartbeats.

“Today is our 107th day,” Pannakara said. “We’re at 2,122 miles already and we are about to come to the final destination, which is the White House.”

Alexandria officials had asked spectators to remain on sidewalks, observe quietly and let the monks initiate interactions, preserving the pilgrimage’s contemplative character. Temporary traffic disruptions continued as the group headed toward Arlington.

Mayor Alyia Gaskins presented the monks with a proclamation recognizing their commitment to peace and compassion. The saffron- and ocher-robed travelers, accompanied by an adopted dog named Aloka, offered reflections on forgiveness, mindfulness and healing.

“This is not a destination,” Gaskins said. “Peace is a practice.”

She said the pilgrimage demonstrated how people, moving step by step together, can foster greater unity, love and peace.

Rep. Don Beyer also welcomed the monks to Alexandria. He said their walk showed that peace remains possible, hope endures and purposeful action can bring people closer to peace.

Alexandria was among the final major stops before the monks reached Washington. There, they petitioned Congress to establish a federal holiday recognizing Buddha’s birthday and day of enlightenment.

The pilgrimage attracted national and international attention, gained millions of social-media followers and drew supporters who traveled long distances to meet the monks. After arriving in Washington, the group continued attending interfaith events and public gatherings throughout the week.

“We have been walking every day and believe that together we can change this world,” Pannakara said before continuing toward the capital.