On 12 and 13 May 2027, the Sanctuary of Fátima holds its great International Anniversary Pilgrimage. This one is special: 13 May 2027 marks 110 years since the first apparition reported by the three shepherd children, Lúcia, Francisco and Jacinta, on 13 May 1917.
The programme
The Sanctuary publishes the official programme and presiding celebrant closer to the date. The May pilgrimage traditionally follows this rhythm:
Evening of 12 May
The Rosary at the Chapel of the Apparitions, followed by the candlelight procession across the esplanade: tens of thousands of candles moving slowly through the dark. Read our candlelight procession guide.
Morning of 13 May
The Rosary, the International Mass on the esplanade and the Farewell Procession, when the statue of Our Lady returns to the Chapel of the Apparitions while pilgrims wave white handkerchiefs.
How busy will it be?
May and October are the two largest pilgrimages of the year, and an anniversary year usually draws even more people. Expect traffic restrictions around the Sanctuary, full car parks and hotels in Fátima booked months in advance. Plan early.
How to get there from Lisbon
Fátima is about 130 km from Lisbon, around 1h30 by car. With a private driver you can attend the candlelight procession on the evening of the 12th and return to your Lisbon hotel the same night, or stay for the Mass on the 13th. For groups and parishes we also arrange larger vehicles; see our Fátima page.
Our Fátima private tour starts from 95€ per person in an estate car (minimum 2 guests). A certified guide can join for +80€ (half day) or +120€ (full day) per group.
Suggested route
- Batalha Monastery, 20 minutes away, a masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Aljustrel, the village where the three children lived, a short drive from the Sanctuary.
- Óbidos or Nazaré if you want to make a full day of it.
Good to know
- Dress respectfully, as for any place of worship.
- Bring a light jacket for the evening procession, and a candle holder if you have one.
- Agree a meeting point with your driver in advance; phone signal can be weak in big crowds.
Frequently asked questions
When is the May 2027 pilgrimage in Fátima?
On Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 May 2027. The candlelight procession is on the evening of the 12th and the International Mass on the morning of the 13th.
Why is 2027 special?
13 May 2027 marks 110 years since the first apparition reported by the shepherd children on 13 May 1917.
Can we go and come back to Lisbon on the same day?
Yes. Fátima is about 1h30 from Lisbon, so you can attend the evening procession and return the same night.
Plan your trip to Fátima Pilgrimage, 110th Anniversary
Tell us your date and group. We reply by email within 24 hours with a route and a confirmed price. No payment is needed to enquire.
Related
- Private Tour · From 72€/personFátima Private Tour from Lisbon
- Event · May – October 2027Fátima Pilgrimage Dates 2027
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- EventsSee all events in the calendar
Sources and official information: Sanctuary of Fátima. Dates and programmes can change; always check the official sources before you travel.
