Can I Have a Visitation If I Choose Cremation?

One of the most common misconceptions surrounding cremation is that it precludes the possibility of a traditional funeral or visitation. In reality, choosing cremation does not limit your ability to honour a loved one with a meaningful and personalised farewell. In fact, cremation often offers greater flexibility in how, when, and where you choose to hold a visitation or memorial service. A visitation—sometimes called a viewing or wake—is an opportunity for friends and family to gather, pay their respects, and offer support to one another before the funeral or final disposition. For many, it is a vital part of the grieving process, providing a moment of reflection, connection, and closure. Whether or not a coffin is present, a visitation allows people to come together in shared remembrance. If you opt for cremation, there are several ways in which a visitation can still take place. Some families choose to have the visitation before the cremation occurs, with the body present in a coffin—either open or closed, depending on cultural or personal preferences. This allows for a more traditional feel and gives mourners the chance to say goodbye in person. In such cases, the body is prepared by the funeral director much as it would be for a burial. Alternatively, a visitation can be held after the cremation, with the urn containing the ashes present, possibly accompanied by a display of photographs, mementoes, or a video tribute. While this may feel different from a viewing in the traditional sense, it can be just as poignant. The absence of a body does not diminish the emotional impact of the gathering; it simply shifts the focus from farewell to celebration of life. The flexibility of cremation also allows for creative and deeply personal tributes. Visitations or memorials can take place in a funeral home, a place of worship, a family home, or even a location of personal significance to the deceased. Some families choose to incorporate music, readings, or rituals that reflect the individual’s life and values. Others may invite guests to share memories, creating an intimate and communal experience. It’s also worth noting that cremation can ease time pressures. Without the urgency associated with burial, families often feel they have more space to plan the kind of visitation that truly reflects the person they’ve lost. This can be especially helpful when loved ones need to travel from afar or when more time is needed to prepare a fitting tribute. Ultimately, the decision to include a visitation is a personal one. Whether cremation or burial, what matters most is that the farewell feels right for those left behind. Funeral directors are well-equipped to guide families through these choices, ensuring that practicalities, preferences, and sensitivities are all carefully considered. So, can you have a visitation if you choose cremation? Absolutely. Cremation is simply one part of the broader process of honouring a life. It does not diminish the need for, or the power of, remembrance.