Reminder issued ahead of City Cemetery Blessing of the Graves
1 June 2026
Derry City and Strabane District Council today issued a reminder that with the annual Blessing of the Graves taking place on June 7th, the City Cemetery is expected to be particularly busy in the days leading up to the event as families visit to prepare the graves of loved ones.
As in previous years, large numbers of visitors are anticipated in advance of the service, which will take place at 3pm on Sunday June 7th. Members of the public are encouraged to consider attending the cemetery at quieter times in the days ahead of the event where possible to help ease congestion. With summer opening hours now in operation, the cemetery can be accessed right up until 8pm, allowing people to spread visits throughout the day.
Those planning to attend the event are reminded that parking within the cemetery grounds will be restricted on the day itself, with only burials permitted in the morning. Access to on-site parking will be limited to Blue Badge holders who have pre-booked a space, with gates opening between 1 - 2pm. Access will be via the Lone Moor Road gate only. Gates will be reopened at the conclusion of the service.
In addition, some alternative parking will be available at a number of nearby locations, including St Mary’s Church, Creggan, St Cecilia’s College and Celtic Park, operating on a first come, first served basis, for those with a valid Blue Badge displayed.
Looking ahead to the event, which is led by the Church in partnership with Council, a spokesperson said: “The Blessing of the Graves is one of the most well-attended events in our calendar, and we are once again preparing to welcome large numbers of visitors to City Cemetery in the days leading up to Cemetery Sunday. We would kindly ask the public to plan their visits in advance and, where possible, attend at quieter times to help reduce congestion across the site.
“By working together and following the guidance in place, we can help ensure that this important time of remembrance is safe, respectful and accessible for everyone.”
Further information on all arrangements for Cemetery Sunday, including parking details and live streaming, is available here www.derrystrabane.com/services/cemeteries/cemetery-sunday