What time does the torchlight procession start?

The torchlight procession begins at 9.00 pm every evening from April to October. In winter, torchlit rosary prayers are held from 8.30 pm at the Grotto.

How long does the procession last?

Allow about an hour for the torchlight procession.

Do you have to be a pilgrim to take part in the procession?

No, the procession is free and open to everyone. You do not need to book in advance to take part in the torchlight procession.

In the light

torches

Torchlight processions

As the day draws to a close, the Sanctuary gradually takes on a different atmosphere. The first candles are lit, hymns ring out and a long procession sets off from the Grotto. Every evening, from April to October, the torchlight procession brings together pilgrims and visitors and is one of the highlights of a visit to Lourdes. Taking part in the procession or simply watching it pass by offers a different perspective on the Sanctuary, bathed in light, silence and a sense of togetherness.

When the night lights up

When the candles take over

As night falls, the first candles are lit in front of the Grotto of Massabielle. Little by little, the participants gather as hymns begin to ring out across the Sanctuary.

The procession then sets off up the esplanade, illuminated by the light of the candles and carried by the fervour of the participants. It ends on the forecourt, opposite the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. Seen from the esplanade or the ramps flanking the basilica, this long ribbon of light is one of the most striking sights in Lourdes.

Torchlight procession in Lourdes — ©
D Viet

A procession open to everyone

The torchlight procession is one of the Sanctuary’s main daily events. You do not need to be taking part in an organised pilgrimage to join this gathering. Visitors present that evening can walk with the procession or choose to watch it from the esplanade or the ramps flanking the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. This is, in fact, an ideal spot for the best view of the procession.

The hymns alternate with moments of silence and set the rhythm of the procession. Languages mingle, generations come together and, for nearly an hour, the Sanctuary reveals a very different side to itself from that seen during the day.

An evening which extends the visit

As night falls, the Sanctuary takes on a different atmosphere. The façades of the basilicas stand out against the darkness, the lighting highlights the architecture, and the last visitors linger a little longer before the torchlight procession begins.

For many, this celebration naturally marks the end of the day. Whether following a visit to the Sanctuary, a stroll through the town centre or dinner on a terrace, it offers a different way to experience Lourdes. The lights, the singing and the monumental setting combine to create a scene that sets the tone for evenings from April to October and leaves visitors with lasting memories.