The Pope’s Ireland visit is one of the biggest events in this country in 2018. Here’s everything you need to know.
We’re sure you’ve heard about the Pope’s Ireland visit already… but you may be wondering when the Pope is coming, where the Pope will be during his time in Ireland and what the Pope will be doing when he comes.
It’s the first time the head of the Catholic Church has visited this country in nearly 40 years and if this visit is anything like the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1979, then it’s going to be a huge deal.
Tickets for the Pope’s appearances in the Phoenix Park and Knock sold out pretty quickly, so there’s no doubting the level of interest.
He won’t be here for long, but the itinerary for the Pope’s Ireland visit will include appointments at the Phoenix Park, Croke Park and Knock and he’ll be packing a lot into his schedule during his two days on this soil.
Day One: Saturday, 25 August
- After flying into Dublin Airport on Saturday morning, the Pope will arrive at the Presidential Residence in Áras an Uachtaráin at 11.15am, meeting Michael D. Higgins and his wife.
- Next up is the Pope’s speech at Dublin Castle, which will take place at 12.10pm.
- Pope Francis will then conduct some professional business in the nation’s capital, before the big one – the concert in GAA HQ.
- The Pope will be entertained at Croke Park by stars such as Daniel O’Donnell and Nathan Carter at 7.30pm for the Feast of the Families. Who needs Electric Picnic?
Day Two: Sunday, 26 August
- On Sunday morning, Pope Francis will arrive at Knock Airport, before making his way to Knock Shrine for approximately 9.45am. Tickets for his His Holiness’ appearance in Knock sold out in days.
- It’s important to note that The N17 between Charlestown and Claremorris will be closed from 12 midnight on Saturday until at least 3pm on Sunday as a result of the Pope’s visit.
- Pope Francis then has a bit of a quick turnaround, and will make it to Phoenix Park in Dublin by 2.30pm for the main event, mass.
- He will depart Ireland at 6.30pm with a farewell ceremony in Dublin Airport.
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