World Walking Festivals

Croagh Patrick, the Hill of Patrick, is best known for its association with Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, who is said to have fasted for 40 days at the summit in 441AD. Each year, the Reek attracts about 1 million pilgrims and hillwalkers but around 25,000 pilgrims climb Croagh Patrick on the last Sunday in July every year, known as Reek Sunday. Reek Sunday or Garland Sunday is the last Sunday in July, pilgrims climb the holy mountain with many in their bare feet. However, people from Westport traditionally make the pilgrimage two days before, on Garland Friday. In 1905, a small church was built at the top by local men and Mass is celebrated here on Reek Sunday.