Wake After Service
Traditionally a wake referred to the viewing of the body before the funeral or farewell service, however nowadays the term ‘wake’ is commonly used to refer to the reception event that immediately follows the formal service.
In some cases, when the funeral is attended only by the immediate family members, they may choose to hold a wake, or a gathering to celebrate the life of the deceased, later in the day or at a later date.
A wake is an opportunity for friends and family to share stories, and commemorate the life of their loved one.
Where can I hold a wake?
Wakes can be held in a number of different venues, for example a funeral home, family home, church or Community hall, hotel or private event space, winery or restaurant. You can find funeral and wake venues near you in our nationwide directory below:
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What happens at a wake?
A wake is an opportunity for the friends and family of the deceased to gather together, share stories, and commemorate the life of the deceased in a less formal setting. Sometimes family may organise an activity for guests to participate in at the wake, such as planting a memorial tree or writing entries in a book of remembrance.
Catering at a wake
It is common for food and drink to be served at a wake and this is usually catered by the family, the venue hosting the event, or the family may ask guests to bring a shared plate.
video resource
Creative Funerals & Natural Deathcare
This informative and myth-busting conversation with Jo Samuel from A Graceful Undertaking about after death care and funerals was part of Dying Matters Week 2025.
Find out who the women of A Graceful Undertaking are, what makes them different and why they’re doing what they’re doing. Enjoy a lively discussion about how we can stay engaged in caring for our own after death, natural options for caring for a body, home funerals and what it takes to create a unique, personalised, family led funeral.