Large pilgrimages take place on the esplanade on the 12th and 13th of each month from May to October, these include a torchlight procession, night vigil, solemn mass and blessing of the sick; the pilgrimage then ends with the Farewell Procession dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The ardour of the throngs of praying pilgrims from all over the world as they cross the esplanade, often on their knees, towards the Chapel of Apparitions, is quite a sight to behold.