Hundreds take part in Mayo 'Darkness into Light' event

350 people gathered in Kiltimagh this morning (Saturday) at 4.15am to participate in the 2026 Kiltimagh Darkness into Light walk. The event took place as part of Pieta’s annual fundraiser to raise money for lifesaving suicide and self-harm prevention and was supported by Electric Ireland.

Against the backdrop of a crisp clear morning, the participants gathered to begin the 4.7k loop walk which started and ended at the Bocce Courts in Kiltimagh. Well renowned local musician Ollie Burke performed a mix of tunes to an enthusiastic crowd who were already buzzed with excitement for this very special and highly poignant occasion.

Chairperson of the Darkness into Light Kiltimagh Committee, Joe Corry gave a brief talk before the walk commenced at 4.15am sharp. Over 35 volunteer stewards were positioned at key strategic locations along the route helping to illuminate the bends and turns while providing guidance to all participants as they eagerly made their way down Chapel Street and all around the hinterlands of Cordarragh and Kilcon. The award-winning Cill Aodain Choral society performed a repertoire of songs at the Sculpture Park on the way back. Their angelic voices and harmonious singing added magnificently to the occasion. Their sweet dulcet tones provided a perfect accompaniment to the beautiful cacophony of bird song that resonated along the route in the form of the ‘Dawn Chorus.’ 

A feature highlight of the Darkness into Light Kiltimagh walk was ‘The Silent Remembrance Stretch.’ At a distance of just over 500 metres, this part of the route was designated as a special place of remembrance, where all participants could walk in silence and pay an additional mark of respect to their loved ones who died by suicide.

The ambience of the walk and the community spirit and solidarity of all those involved is to be commended. The TY students at St. Louis’s Community School Kiltimagh, together with their teacher Ms. Horan and Tom Meskell, wowed participants with a stunning display of 3D ‘HOPE’ lettering using illuminated lanterns! In equal measure, The Kiltimagh Scouts provided a magnificent candlelight display around the Sculpture Park including a ‘Pathway of Hope’ lettering. This accentuated the beautiful sunrise symbolising the journey of hope, from Darkness into Light.

Participants were welcomed back to the Bocce Courts with live music from musician Ollie Burke and a tasty array of refreshments which were sponsored by a host of local businesses.

The Darkness into Light Kiltimagh Committee Chairperson Joe Corry together with a passionate and dedicated group of volunteers spearheaded an extremely successful campaign.