Thousands Join Global ‘Darkness Into Light’ Walks to Support Pieta House
Around 80,000 people are expected to participate in Darkness Into Light events across Ireland and worldwide today, May 9, 2026. The global initiative brings together communities to raise vital funds and awareness for Pieta House, a leading suicide intervention charity.
The scale of this year’s event is significant, featuring 170 walks—the majority of which are located in Ireland. The global sequence of events began at Bondi Beach in Australia and will conclude in Vancouver, symbolizing a worldwide wave of support for suicide and self-harm prevention.
Major Events and Local Participation
The largest of the gatherings took place in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, where approximately 10,000 people walked and ran 5 kilometers. These events typically begin before dawn, allowing participants to walk together as the sun rises.
Beyond the capital, the spirit of the fundraiser was evident in numerous regional locations across Ireland:
- Co. Cork: Hundreds of participants gathered in Kinsale, while others joined from Blarney.
- Co. Wicklow: Hundreds of people took part in a coastal walk in Greystones.
- Co. Kildare: Participants at the Abbeyfield Farm Activity Centre took a unique approach, joining the movement on horseback.
- Other Regions: Community events were held at Ballinamere GAA, as well as in Portlaoise and Durrow, with the latter two supported by medical cover from the Laois Civil Defence.
Financial Impact and Growth
The Darkness Into Light fundraiser is not limited to walking. it also incorporates sailing and kayaking events to maximize its reach. Organizers expect this year’s efforts to raise between €3 million and €4 million for Pieta House.
The event’s growth since its inception is a testament to the increasing focus on mental health. Darkness Into Light began in 2009 with a modest walk in Phoenix Park attended by roughly 400 people. Since then, the initiative has evolved into a global phenomenon, raising over €40 million to support services for those impacted by suicide and self-harm.
- Global Reach: ~80,000 participants across 170 walks worldwide.
- Primary Goal: Raising funds for Pieta House, a suicide intervention charity.
- Largest Event: Phoenix Park, Dublin, with approximately 10,000 attendees.
- Fundraising Target: Expected to raise €3m to €4m this year.
- Historical Success: Over €40m raised since the event started in 2009.
A Legacy of Hope
By transforming the darkness of pre-dawn hours into the light of a new day, the event serves as both a fundraiser and a symbolic gesture of hope. The continued expansion of Darkness Into Light reflects a growing global commitment to ensuring that those struggling with self-harm and suicidal ideation have access to the necessary intervention and support services.