Kilkenny rises early to walk from Darkness Into Light

People from across the county join together for the most important sunrise of the year

People from across Kilkenny gathered to take part in this year's Darkness Into Light.

The annual event, which is held in aid of Pieta, the charity that prevents suicide and self-harm, saw communities come together to support mental health and prevent suicide.

In Leinster, Pieta provided 12,890 hours of therapy and helped 1,777 people in 2024, showing the need for public support is more urgent than ever.

Kilkenny City and Inistioge were just two venues of the more than 200 official walks organised across the globe. These walks provide an opportunity for people to connect with their local community and to bring hope to people who have been impacted by suicide.

People get ready for the start of the 2025 Darkness Into Light walk at the James Stephens army barracks

In the city a large crowd gathered at the James Stephens army barracks, the traditional meeting point for the event. Just after 4.15am, following a gentle warm-up, a sea of people - many dressed in the traditional bright Darkness Into Light yellow T-shirts - set off for a 5km walk which travelled down John Street and around the Castle Walls before travelling back to the barracks via High Street and Irishtown. Once back at base, people were treated to refreshments and a stirring performance from the Lady Desart Choir.

In Inistioge the route took walkers on a tranquil journey from village, over the bridge and along the River Nore.

Across the county there were other events, with Callan, Freshford and Mullinavat among the venues for walks which helped to raise funds for mental health charities.

Since its inception in 2009, Darkness Into Light has grown from 400 walkers in Dublin’s Phoenix Park to a global event spanning 14 countries. Participants walk from darkness into dawn, symbolising hope, and the journey from despair to healing.

"Each year, around 500 lives are lost to suicide in Ireland-and that’s just the tip of the iceberg," said Stephanie Manahan, Chief Executive of Pieta. "Behind every number is a grieving family, friends, a community in pain. Darkness Into Light is more than a fundraiser; it is a movement that saves lives."

People can contact the Pieta Crisis Helpline 24/7 at 1800-247247 or text HELP to 51444 . 