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06 Sept 2025

Darkness Into Light returns to Mayo for 2025

The event, now in its sixteenth year, will take place across 13 Mayo locations, with funds going to suicide prevention organisation Pieta House

Darkness Into Light returns to Mayo for 2025

Influencer Louise Cooney is one of the ambassadors for the 2025 Darkness Into Light

The people of Mayo are being encouraged to get out and get walking at sunrise on May 10 as Darkness into Light returns for 2025.

The event, which is in its sixteenth year, will see people walking at dawn in order to spread awareness and raise funds for mental health charity Pieta House.

READ MORE: Mayo restaurant makes Irish Times List of Ireland's 100 Best Restaurants

In total, 13 events are running in Mayo, with everyone encouraged to sign up and donate in order to generate funds for the group.

The walk, which started with 400 people in 2009 and now spans four continents, raises vital money to run suicide prevention services as well as essential mental health supports.

Last year, in Connacht alone, Pieta House provided 5,255 hours (or almost 219 days) of therapy. Eighty-seven percent of the group’s funds in 2024 came from funding, and the €22 signup fee ensures that Pieta can receive two calls to their 24/7 crisis helpline.

Niall McNelis, who volunteers on the committee of Galway’s Darkness Into Light, is well aware of the impact of the event both on those who take part and those who avail of their services.

“Seeing our community come together in Connacht, walking side by side as the sun rises, is a powerful reminder of hope and support,” he stated.

“This event isn’t just about raising funds—it’s about showing people in crisis that they are never alone.”

Darkness Into Light takes place on Saturday, May 10, with walks getting underway at 4.15 am in Mayo. Entries are €22 for adults, and €5 for teenagers. Children can sign up for free.

READ MORE: Tickets for Mayo’s Connacht Championship quarter-final go on sale

Those who wish to sign up can do so here, and the list of venues is as follows:

  • Achill - Keel Community Hall
  • Ballina - Saint Muredach’s Cathedral (F26 XV50)
  • Ballinrobe - Ballinrobe Town AFC (F31 P582)
  • Ballyglass - Carrowreaghmony (F12 D500)
  • Ballyhaunis - Ballyhaunis Community School (F35 RF63)
  • Castlebar - De La Salle Sports Hall (F23 VF72)
  • Claremorris - Claremorris Athletic Club (F12 KX63)
  • Erris - Saint Brendan’s Sports Hall (F26 C782)
  • Inishturk - Inishturk Comminity Centre (H91 N990)
  • Lahardane - Lahardane Community Centre (F26 KH64)
  • Straide - Straide Davitt Community Hall (F26 RX36)
  • Swinford - Swinford Community Centre
  • Westport - Westport House (F28 TY45)

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