Death & Dying Workshop in 2024
Death Fest is a community gathering exploring how we might reclaim death and grief as shared human experiences rather than private burdens. Through workshops, conversations, music, ritual, storytelling, art, and hands-on demonstrations, we'll explore community death care, green burial, grief tending, advance planning, and the traditions and practical skills that help us care for one another through life's final transition.
Inspired by the belief that caring for our dying and grieving is a community responsibility—not solely the work of professionals—Death Fest brings together local practitioners, artists, caregivers, and neighbors to rebuild our capacity for mutual care. Whether you're curious about end-of-life planning, interested in sustainable burial practices, seeking meaningful conversations about grief, or simply wondering how to better support those you love, you're invited to join us as we imagine a culture that is less afraid of death and more practiced in caring for one another.
Death Fest Schedule
12:00 PM – Community Gathering & Picnic Lunch
Bring a picnic lunch and settle in. We'll begin by sharing copies of the Community-held Death & Grief Care Manifesto and gathering in conversation.
1:00 PM – The Requirement: Helping Death Care Make a Circle (45 min)
Katherine Savage and members of her death care circle explore how mutual care, shared knowledge, and community responsibility can help us reclaim our capacity to care for one another through dying and grief.
2:00 PM – Returning (Gently) to the Earth: Natural Burial & the Art of Willow Casket Weaving (45 min)
Discover the beauty and practicality of green burial traditions while learning about willow casket weaving and the ways ritual, craftsmanship, and ecology come together at the end of life.
3:15 PM – Songs for the Dying (30 min)
An intimate exploration of the role music can play in offering comfort, presence, and accompaniment during dying and grief.
4:00 PM – Autonomy & Resisting the Capitalist Funeral Industry (1 hour)
A presentation and community discussion exploring how colonialism and commercialization have shaped our relationships with death, and how building communal knowledge and capacity can help us reclaim more autonomous, compassionate ways of caring for our dead.
Community Supported Ticketing
We believe the arts are strongest when everyone has a chance to participate.
The true cost of admission is $25. If you're able, consider choosing a Friend of Rare Bird or Rare Bird Supporter ticket to help keep events accessible, support artists, and strengthen our community.
No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If cost is a barrier after Community Tickets have been claimed, please reach out—we'd love to help.
Thank you for helping make the arts accessible for everyone.
Community Ticket — $10
General Admission — $25
Friend of Rare Bird — $50
Rare Bird Supporter — $100