Key facts
| Who leads | A humanist celebrant — e.g. accredited by Humanists UK, or Humanist Society Scotland |
|---|---|
| Content | Life story, tributes, music and poetry; no religious content |
| Where | Crematorium, natural burial ground, hotel, village hall, garden or home |
What to expect
The celebrant meets the family to learn about the person and writes a unique ceremony around their life story. Humanist funerals are increasingly popular in the UK and suit people who lived without religion but want a meaningful goodbye.
Every family and community is different. Use this as a starting point, follow the wishes of the person who died, and ask their faith leader or community for guidance.
Etiquette for guests
What to wear
Whatever the family asks — often bright colours.
What to say
Share a memory; there are no set words.
Flowers and gifts
Welcome, unless donations are requested.
Frequently asked questions
Can you have hymns at a humanist funeral?
Humanist ceremonies don’t include hymns or prayers, but many include a moment of quiet reflection so that religious guests can pray privately.