Traditional funeral services are often recognized as solemn events, even across different cultures and religions. Nowadays, less structured types of tributes for the dead are becoming more popular. For example, families of the deceased may choose to do a celebration of life.
Although the two types of events are both ways to honor the dearly departed, there are many factors that make them unique from each other. Learn the difference between the celebration of life vs a funeral according to the qualities below.
Celebration of Life VS Funeral: What are the 5 Differences?
Separate events
Funeral services take place before the burial, whereas a celebration of life can be done independently – days, weeks, months, or even years after a person is buried. Following this, it is often regarded as a tribute to the deceased to celebrate their achievements, and memories from when they were living, some time after they have been laid to rest.
Formal vs casual setup
A celebration of life brings in a more casual and joyous mood, as opposed to a traditional funeral. Depending on the deceased’s loved ones, the celebration can be a relaxed memorial or a party-like gathering. In contrast, funerals follow a certain set of practices.
Creative freedom
Simply put, a celebration of life allows more creativity than funeral. Because of the loose structure, celebrations of life are not restricted by mandatory rituals and events.
For example, a celebration of life can take place in an informal venue, such as a flower garden, at the family’s home, by the beach or lake, and even at the deceased’s favorite restaurant. There is more room for activities such as singing, creating artistic tributes, and exchanging stories about the deceased. This creative freedom further encourages an uplifting atmosphere as opposed to funerals where visitors and the bereaved grieve.
Inclusion or lack of religious practices
When comparing celebration of life service vs funeral, religion and culture play a big factor. For families with a non-religious background, the gathering may be more festive, like a party, complete with music, dancing, food, and a family member or a friend giving a heartfelt speech about the deceased.
A celebration of life for people with religious background still tends to have similar religious elements to a funeral or wake, such as prayers or candle lighting. However, this does not mean religious individuals are not allowed to hold a celebration of life like you would a party.
Hybrid memorial service
Celebrations of life are often regarded as a form of memorial service. Elements such as speakers who share stories about the deceased, photographs, and funeral flowers are typically present, as well. It is a more laid-back and customized way to honor the deceased in unique ways.
Unlike a formal memorial service or a funeral, celebrations incorporate characteristics of the deceased in the gathering. The hosts can play music from an artist that the deceased loved, display some of their favorite items, serve their comfort food, and even ask guests to come in wearing their favorite colors.
Despite the comparisons between a celebration of life vs funeral service, these events honor the dead, just in different ways. The two events differ greatly in atmosphere and technicalities, but both share similar functions. They help remember and accept the death of a loved one and provide comfort to the bereaved family.
ALSO READ: Different Types of Funeral Flower Arrangements to Honor a Loved One
Whether you are attending a celebration of life or funeral service, both occasions can be celebrated with funeral flowers. Flower Patch offers a wide variety of sympathy flowers, funeral flower arrangements, and wreaths to convey your sincerest condolences. Celebrate a well-lived life and contact us today.