Why Is There a Wake Before a Funeral

The term wake was originally used to denote a prayer vigil, often an annual event held on the feast day of the saint to whom a parish church was dedicated. … It used to be the custom in most Celtic countries in Europe for mourners to keep watch or vigil over their dead until they were buried – this was called a “wake”.

What are funeral wakes for?

Wakes began as vigils after death, a way of watching over a loved one after their passing and spending a private moment together before burial. Wakes used to be held in private homes, but it is much more common for a wake to be held at a funeral home today.

What typically happens at a wake?

More often, a wake is one of several ceremonies that take place after a death. It’s typical in the U.S. to start with a wake, viewing, or visitation, followed by a funeral or memorial service and a burial or inurnment. Close friends and family will often attend all of the services, from wake through burial.