Broadcaster and wellbeing commentator Dr Ciara Kelly has launched the 19th annual Harbour2Harbour Walk in support of Aware.
The 26km fundraising challenge takes place on St Patrick’s Day, Tuesday 17 March, and is an official event partner of St Patrick’s Festival 2026.
More than 3,000 walkers, families and dogs are expected to take part, raising funds for Aware’s free mental health supports.
Participants can start at either Howth Harbour or Dún Laoghaire Harbour, with a ‘Halfway Hooley’ hosted by Dublin Port Company at East Point Business Park.
The route follows the shoreline of Dublin Bay through the UNESCO Biosphere and is described as suitable for most fitness levels.
Dr Kelly said she was “truly delighted” to return as ambassador for a second year.
“The sense of achievement on completing the challenge is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “Walking is one of the most powerful things we can do for our overall wellbeing.”
She added that regular walking reduces stress and anxiety while offering “a simple yet mindful way to reset and recharge”.
Harbour2Harbour is Aware’s flagship fundraising event. The charity supports people affected by depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety.
According to a recent Aware survey, three in four respondents reported facing mental health challenges. Almost one third cited a diagnosis of depression.
Aware CEO Stephen Butterly said the walk is a key date in the organisation’s calendar.
“Anxiety is the biggest reason people get in touch and we are seeing growing numbers year on year,” he said. “We can offer education, listening, information and counselling for any adult experiencing mental health challenges.”
Claire Percy, Head of External Affairs at Dublin Port, described the event as “a fantastic way to get out and about this Patrick’s Day”.
She highlighted amenities including the Great South Wall, the Port’s Distributed Museum and the Dublin Port Greenway, which has recorded more than 250,000 visits since opening.
Registration is open at aware.ie/harbour2harbour.
