Carlow proudly hosts the XXVI Columbanus Day celebration from July 11th to 13th, 2025. This significant occasion honours St. Columbanus, one of Ireland’s most influential early missionaries, recognised for his contributions to the spiritual and cultural foundation of Europe. Columbanus was born in Carlow, in the shadow of the Blackstairs Mountains.
The three-day event promises a rich blend of cultural, spiritual and communal experiences. Highlights include the launch of the exhibition “Ireland and the Birth of Europe,” a symposium exploring the relationship between creation and spirituality, and a walk along the picturesque Columban Way. Visitors can also look forward to engaging talks, such as “Columbanus, the Man from Myshall,” delivered by former President Mary McAleese. The celebrations culminate with the XXVI Columbanus Day Mass at the Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow. Other features include a reception for pilgrims, an Irish music night and ecumenical evening prayers accompanied by the Columbanus relics. With opportunities for reflection, learning, and celebration, this weekend invites all to “Walk Together in Hope,” embracing the legacy of St. Columbanus and his vision of unity and peace.
Full Programme of Events below, all events are free except the Pilgrims Walk on Saturday.
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Date |
Event |
Booking Information |
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Friday 11th July 1.45pm |
Welcome Address & Launch of Exhibition “Ireland and the Birth of Europe” with Bishop Denis Nulty and Prof. Dáibhí Ó Cróinín. |
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Friday 11th July 3pm |
Symposium “If you want to Know the Creator, Understand Creation” with Fr Sean McDonagh and Sr Ann Gray, facilitated by Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, MEP |
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Friday 11th July 5pm |
Ceremony of Welcome and Reception hosted by the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. |
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Friday 11th July 8pm |
Ecumenical Evening Prayer with procession of Columbanus Relics. |
No booking necessary. |
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Saturday 12th July 10am |
Pilgrims walk from the Nine Stones to Myshall, followed by Buffet Lunch |
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Saturday 12th July 2.30pm |
Talk: “Columbanus, the man from Myshall” with former President Mary McAleese. |
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Saturday 12th July 5pm |
Reception for Pilgrims and Guests, hosted by Carlow County Council. |
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Saturday 12th July 8pm |
“Praise Resounds” Concert in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow. |
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Sunday 13th July 10.30am |
XXVI Columbanus Day Mass |
No booking necessary, venue will be stewarded on the day. |
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Sunday 13th July 12.30pm |
Pilgrim’s Lunch hosted by the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. |
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