vigils

noun

1. An instance of keeping awake during normal sleeping hours, especially to keep watch or pray.
2. A period of observation or surveillance at any hour.“His dog kept vigil outside the hospital for eight days while he was recovering from an accident.”
3. The eve of a religious festival in which staying awake is part of the ritual devotions.
4. A quiet demonstration in support of a cause.“The protesters kept vigil outside the conference centre in which the party congress was being held.”