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heritage · Saturday 11 July 2026 · 3:00pm 
Diocese of Limerick and Oblate Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine
At Knock Shrine · Knock, Co. Mayo
At Knock Shrine · Knock, Co. Mayo
Each summer, Catholics from across Limerick city and county travel together to Knock, the Marian shrine in County Mayo where, in August 1879, fifteen local witnesses reported seeing apparitions of the Virgin Mary, St Joseph and St John the Evangelist at the gable of the parish church. An ecclesiastical commission examined the account and declared it trustworthy. The pilgrimage has grown ever since, drawing groups from every diocese in Ireland, and the Diocese of Limerick has long held the July date as its own. For those looking for a day of faith, reflection and community in one of Ireland’s most storied places, this is a well-organised and well-established way to make the journey.
The day centres on the 3:00 pm Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady, Queen of Ireland - a large modern church on the Knock campus. Before Mass, confessions are available from 10:30 am in the Chapel of Reconciliation, and the Anointing of the Sick is offered for those who wish to receive it. The Oblate Fathers co-organise this pilgrimage with the diocese and take an active role in leading ceremonies.
Outside the formal programme, pilgrims walk the Stations of the Cross, pray at the Apparition Chapel - the original church gable where the vision was said to have appeared - and join the Rosary Procession through the grounds. The campus includes a museum documenting the 1879 event, a religious books centre and a cafeé. On a diocesan pilgrimage day the atmosphere is quiet but purposeful.
Knock Shrine is in County Mayo, about 90 minutes north of Limerick City by car. The most direct route follows the N18 to Galway and then the N17 north towards Claremorris and Knock - signposting is clear along the way. Coach services from Limerick parishes are typically arranged in the run-up to the day; check with your local parish office or the Limerick Diocesan Centre (061 350000) for availability and pick-up points. If driving, large car parks are available at the shrine.
This pilgrimage departs from Limerick rather than arriving, but the day connects the city’s long tradition of Catholic practice to a national sacred site. If you have time in the area before or after the trip, there is plenty to draw you back. There is more to see in Limerick and across Co. Limerick.
Heading to Knock Shrine in Limerick? Limerick has plenty more to see. Read the Limerick area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.