Ballyheigue Pattern Day at Our Lady's Well

What to Expect

Pattern Day at Our Lady’s Well is one of Kerry’s most important annual religious celebrations, attracting approximately 10,000 pilgrims. Traditionally held on the feast of the Nativity of Mary, the celebration draws people from across Kerry and beyond. Pilgrims participate in the cherished ritual of paying rounds - walking slowly around the perimeter while reciting the Rosary and kneeling at the statue for the final decade. Water from the well is regarded as having special spiritual properties, and pilgrims may drink from it or take some home.

Good to Know

• Event date: Thursday, September 8, 2026
• Mass time: 11:00 AM
• Celebrant: Bishop Ray Browne
• Feast: Our Lady’s Birthday (Nativity of Mary)
• Pre-dawn walk option: 6:00 AM walk from Dominican Church, Tralee to the well
• Free parking and toilet facilities available onsite
• Approximately 10,000 pilgrims typically attend
• Ancient pilgrimage site with long-established traditions

Getting There

Located in Ballyheigue, Co. Kerry. Free parking is provided at the site. Many pilgrims participate in the traditional 6:00 AM walk from the Dominican Church in Tralee to the well, arriving in time for the 11:00 AM Mass. The walk covers approximately 15km and is a traditional practice honoring the Marian devotion.