National Novena to Our Lady of Knock

What to Expect

The 2026 National Novena to Our Lady of Knock runs for nine consecutive days from 13 to 21 August at Knock Shrine Basilica. The theme is “Sheltered in God’s Love”, marking the 50th anniversary of the opening of Knock Basilica. Ceremonies with guest speakers take place in the Basilica at 3pm and 8pm each day, with a candlelight procession after the evening ceremony (weather permitting). Sunday 16 August is Family Day, with a special blessing of families in the Parish Church at 11am and free activities in the shrine gardens until 3pm. Parish groups from across the Armagh archdiocese regularly travel to Knock during the novena.

Good to Know

• Dates: Thursday 13 to Friday 21 August 2026

• Ceremonies daily at 3pm and 8pm; candlelight procession nightly

• Free to attend

• Family Day: Sunday 16 August, 11am - 3pm in the shrine gardens

• Contact Knock Shrine at (094) 93 88100 or see knockshrine.ie for the full speaker programme

Getting There

Knock Shrine is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Armagh city by car via the M1 motorway and N17. Many Armagh parishes organise coach trips for the novena; contact your local parish office for group travel.