Death Education
Free programs on death, dying, and remembrance
If a cemetery isn’t the perfect setting for a conversation about death, what is?
It doesn’t often come up too often in small talk—it’s one of the last great taboos. Here at Green-Wood, we aim to change that. Our free public programs in death education demystify a wide range of topics relating to end of life. Scroll down for upcoming programs.
What is death education? It’s an umbrella term for studies and activities that facilitate the understanding and acceptance of death. In short, it’s all about getting comfortable with the uncomfortable universal truth of dying. It can incorporate understanding everyday practices like funerals and cremation, or exploring historical and cultural approaches to death. At Green-Wood we offer practical programs in death preparedness (including workshops on grief), lectures by academic experts in the death-positive field, programs that examine death through the lens of different cultures, and Death Cafes (informal, guided conversations about death).
Green-Wood’s death education programs are curated by Gabrielle Gatto, coordinator of public programs. She holds a certificate in Thanatology from The Open Center and is a graduate of the Going with Grace End of Life Training program with Alua Arthur.
Click the left and right arrows below to see past events and more upcoming events (if applicable).
Notes of Tribute: Viewing the 9/11 Memorial Lights
Green-Wood serves as the final resting place for over 100 people who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and in the years that followed. In their remembrance, we will gather on one of Green-Wood’s hills overlooking the city skyline to witness the tribute lights over lower Manhattan. Our program will include words of remembrance ... Read more
A Day in the Life of A Pet Loss Specialist
Losing a pet can hurt just as much as losing any human, but there are people who can help: pet loss specialists. They offer emotional support and practical guidance for navigating the death of beloved pets. Discover the daily routines, challenges, and rewards of their work and gain valuable insights into memorializing and grieving our ... Read more
Grieving & Weaving: Climate Week Edition
Part of Climate Week at Green-Wood Join us as we bring together creativity and contemplation with an evening of crafting. At this special Climate Week edition of Grieving & Weaving, we’re focusing on how crafting can play a role in sustainability. Repurposing materials, crafting durable handmade items, and mending damaged garments are all ways we ... Read more
Death Cafe: Climate Week Edition
Part of Climate Week at Green-Wood The Death Cafe is a simple concept. Bring strangers together to discuss one of the great universal truths: death. With thousands of chapters in over 26 countries around the world, Death Cafes are informal gatherings that aim to “increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make ... Read more
Death Cafe
The Death Cafe is a simple concept. Bring strangers together to discuss one of the great universal truths: death. With thousands of chapters in over 25 countries around the world, Death Cafes are informal gatherings that aim to “increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their lives.” There ... Read more
Game Night at Green-Wood: The Death Deck
Join friends and strangers alike for the ultimate cemetery card game: the Death Deck. With 112 thought-provoking cards featuring multiple choice and open-ended questions, the Death Deck prompts players to explore personal beliefs, fears, and preparations surrounding the inevitable end with a dose of humor and levity. Whether you're partnering up or joining a lively ... Read more
Grieving & Weaving
Join us as we bring together creativity and contemplation with an evening of crafting. If you like to knit, crochet, or engage in another kind of crafting, Grieving & Weaving is for you. As we create together, we’ll talk about the significance of handmade items in both our personal and collective histories. Feel free to ... Read more
Day of the Dead Family Celebration
Discover the rich history and traditions associated with the holiday Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) through family-friendly crafts, performances, music, activities, and food.
Grieving & Weaving
Join us as we bring together creativity and contemplation with an evening of crafting. If you like to knit, crochet, or engage in another kind of crafting, Grieving & Weaving is for you. As we create together, we’ll talk about the significance of handmade items in both our personal and collective histories. Feel free to ... Read more
Lights, Camera, Legacy: Filming Family Stories
Capturing the essence of your loved ones in videos is a precious gift, whether it’s Grandpa's dance moves, an uncle’s infectious laughter, or toasts from your parents' wedding. Led by Emmy-Award-winning filmmaker Elyse Neiman Seiter, this evening will explore the craft of creating compelling home videos and interviews that preserve your family's legacy for future ... Read more
Green-Wood’s public programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, as well as the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.
