Notre Dame Honors Lou Holtz with Special Ceremony at Iconic Basilica

Join the Notre Dame community in honoring legendary coach Lou Holtz by participating in his Mass of Christian Burial through available livestreams and public viewing arrangements.

On March 4, the world of college football lost a true icon. Lou Holtz, the legendary Notre Dame football coach, passed away at the age of 89.

Holtz's tenure with the Fighting Irish from 1986 to 1996 was nothing short of extraordinary, boasting a 100-30-2 record and securing a national championship in 1988. His impact on the game and his players was profound, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for generations.

Today, the Notre Dame community gathers to celebrate Holtz's life and legacy with a funeral mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The service is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m., offering a moment for fans, friends, and family to pay their respects to a man who shaped the course of college football history.

For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the service is available, ensuring that everyone who was touched by Holtz's career can join in honoring him.

Here’s what you need to know about today's proceedings:

  • Time: The service kicks off at 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: The Basilica of the Sacred Heart, nestled on the picturesque campus of the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
  • Public Seating: While seating inside the Basilica is limited, it remains open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Early risers began lining up outside Sorin Hall at 8:00 a.m. to secure their spots.
  • Overflow Viewing: For those unable to find a seat in the Basilica, there are additional viewing options. Livestreams of the Mass will be available at Washington Hall and Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center, with doors opening at 11:30 a.m.

These venues also operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Procession: Following the Mass, the public is invited to line Notre Dame Avenue as the family leads a procession from Notre Dame Circle to Cedar Grove Cemetery's main entrance on campus.

Today is a day of remembrance and reflection, a chance to celebrate the life of a coach who not only brought glory to Notre Dame but also inspired countless players and fans with his passion and dedication to the game.