Derry City and Strabane District Council and the Church will hold the annual Blessing of the Graves at City Cemetery on June 7 at 3pm. The cemetery closes to the general public until 1pm that day, except for funerals. Pedestrians gain access from 1pm.

Council officials allocated 150 parking spaces inside the cemetery for Blue Badge holders. Bookings require advance registration on the council website with name, contact number, vehicle registration, Blue Badge number and email address. Applications process on a first-come, first-served basis.

Blue Badge holders with confirmed spaces must enter via Lone Moor Road between 1pm and 2pm. Gates close at 2pm, and vehicles stay parked until after the service. The cemetery reopens around 4.30pm once crowds disperse.

Extra parking for Blue Badge holders operates first-come, first-served without booking at St Mary’s Church in Creggan, St Cecilia’s College and Celtic Park. Only vehicles showing valid Blue Badges receive access.

Officials urge visitors on foot to plan routes ahead due to traffic controls and crowd volumes. Attendees parking outside must avoid blocking roads, footpaths or access points near local homes.

The council and Church call for cooperation with stewards, adherence to guidance and respect toward others during the service. A live stream on YouTube serves those unable to attend in person. Full details appear on the council website.