The Celebration of Life Hub

Celebrations of life are flexible and deeply personal. They offer an opportunity to gather, share memories, and honor someone’s legacy in a way that feels authentic.

• There are no strict rules for a celebration of life: You can hold it anywhere, at any time, and in any style that fits the person being remembered.
• The tone is often more joyful or reflective than somber: While grief is still present, these events focus on storytelling, laughter, connection, and what made the person unique.
• You can include as much or as little formality as you like: Some celebrations resemble memorial services, while others feel more like casual gatherings, meals, hikes, or concerts.
• Timing is flexible: Celebrations of life often happen days, weeks, or even months after the person has passed, allowing time for planning and travel.
• They can take place with or without the person’s remains present: Some people pair a celebration of life with a burial or scattering of ashes, while others treat it as a completely separate event.
• Common elements include music, food, stories, and photos: Slideshows, open mics, memory tables, guest books, or activity stations can all help people connect and participate.
• Spiritual or religious content is optional: You can include prayers or rituals if meaningful to the person or family, or keep it entirely secular and focused on the individual.
• The location can be anywhere meaningful: People hold celebrations in backyards, parks, event halls, beaches, places of worship, or even restaurants and community centers.
• Guests are encouraged to participate: Many families invite guests to wear the person’s favorite color, share a memory, or contribute to a group activity or legacy project.
• Planning in advance helps it reflect the person’s values: Some people write down their wishes for a celebration of life while they are still living. Others work with loved ones to plan something beautiful after the fact.