Similar, yes. Watchnight services were traditionally held on New Year's Eve around midnight where I come from, to usher in the new year with prayer.Mom's church has a Vigil at Easter, when we all sign up for an hour each all through the night to sit and meditate in the church with flowers and candles all around. Is that the same thing?
I used to take the 3 am (or similar middle-of-the-night) slot, it was so nice being out and about when nobody else was stirring.
(I need to start signing up for that again, I've been missing it. Thanks for reminding me.)