Kilkenny walks from Darkness Into Light

The crowds came out from all over Kilkenny as the county gathered for Darkness Into Light 2023.

Saturday morning’s event, a major fundraiser for Pieta House, saw people of all ages rise early and walk together as a community to bring hope to people who have been impacted by suicide

Described as the most important sunrise of the year, Darkness Into Light helps Pieta House provide free vital services to people impacted by suicide and self-harm.

Kilkenny was home to two official walks again this year, the long-established City event being joined by one that left from Inistioge’s Cois Abhann Community Centre.

In the city the James Stephens barracks was the designated base for an army of yellow-clad walkers and runners who left at 4.15am for their 5km journey. The route took people down the Canal Walk alongside Kilkenny Castle, before doubling back along the Parade and High Street, making its way back to the barracks. There, as the dawn broke, people were greeted by the Lady Desart Choir and a series of uplifting songs, while refreshments were served to all.

This year’s Darkness Into Light saw 200 official walks take place in 15 countries across five continents. People can still make donations by visiting:

https://www.darknessintolight.ie/donate