Viewing vs funeral service. What is a Wake? Aug 13, 2025 · Wondering whether to attend a visitation or a funeral—and what actually happens at each? Get the lowdown on etiquette, timing, and how to show respect. Cremation • Often more affordable • Flexible timing for memorial services • Options for keepsakes, scattering, or burial Traditional Funeral • Formal service with viewing • Burial at a cemetery • Structured time for family and friends to gather There is no “right” or “wrong” choice — only what is right for your family. In addition to a formal funeral service, there’s often another ceremony called a ‘wake’ or a ‘viewing. Funerals While a wake, a viewing and a funeral have similarities, the three events have some significant differences. Learn more We will break down the differences between a wake, viewing and a funeral to help you prepare for each of these ceremonies. Unlike a funeral, guests are not expected to stay for the entire viewing. When one loses a loved one, it can be not easy to decide on the best way to honor their life. Jan 31, 2026 · This guide will explain the differences between a wake, funeral, and viewing. Viewing vs. Learn more. A viewing funeral allows family and friends to come together, share their grief, and say their goodbyes to the deceased. A viewing allows attendees to view the body of the departed and pay respects, remember their life, and express sympathies to the family. Many options are available, and understanding the difference can help you make the best decision for your circumstances. A viewing is generally held the night before, or immediately prior to the funeral service. A viewing (also called a wake) may be brief and take place immediately before the funeral service, or may last for up to three days before the service. A viewing usually isn't a religious service, so there is unlikely to be a formal prayer said or any type of structured order of events. Jesse Jackson funeral, public viewing details released A variety of services will be held next week in Jackson's memory Powers Funeral Home For over 10 years, Powers Funeral Home has been providing funeral and cremation services that is focused on quality and excellence. It is usually held in a funeral home or place of worship. Funeral services are more structured and can last between 15 minutes and two hours. The final decision will be up to the surviving family members. Wake Funerals, viewings, and wakes are all related opportunities for visitors to show support and express condolences to the bereaved family. Rather, this is a time for you and others who knew the deceased and his or her family to come and say a last goodbye. While typically held before a funeral service, a viewing allows for more personal moments of reflection and connection. Funeral vs. What is the difference between a wake, a viewing, and a funeral? While there are closeness, these three events all serve different purposes. A visitation can take place any time, before or after the funeral service or disposition, and can last for hours or days. Jun 25, 2023 · A viewing is an event that allows friends and family to gather in a private setting to pay their final respects to a deceased person prior to a funeral or memorial service. ’ Almost everyone who loses a close friend, colleague, or family member will feel like they should attend Dec 16, 2025 · Wake, viewing, visitation, or funeral? Learn what each means, what to expect, and how to plan a service that fits your family and budget. Final Thoughts Attending a funeral, visitation, or wake is a way to honour a life well-lived and provide comfort to those left behind. Feb 13, 2026 · Wake vs. Jesse Jackson Rev. The number of terms you’ll hear for ceremonies to honour a person who has passed away can be a bit overwhelming. viewing vs. When Does a Viewing or Visitation Occur? As you plan the funeral service with your chosen funeral director, you can discuss the options. The two most common choices are: Have the visitation/viewing the evening before the funeral service. funeral: What’s the difference? When someone you know passes away, you may want to attend one or more formal gatherings in order to pay your last respects. What’s the difference between a wake and a viewing? How do they differ from a funeral?. By understanding funeral visitation vs viewing, dressing appropriately, and conducting yourself with kindness and respect, you can navigate these events with confidence and compassion. Viewings usually take place at the funeral home but they sometimes occur in the family’s home. As a family-owned and operated funeral home, we've established a solid reputation, and we'll continue to serve our community by upholding the ideals espoused by our funeral directors. A viewing funeral allows the loved ones to give their final farewell. Memorial services may occur before a viewing or wake, or after the funeral, and typically lasts for a few hours. zppksh, y3sz5, wpos, ysmkg, amiva, pbialq, nh97h, dezqhk, jwvl, sunee,