What Is a Visitation?

Mangano Family Funeral Homes • March 27, 2023

 When a person passes away, it is customary for friends and family members to visit the surviving family to pay their respects. And while this may seem like a nice thing to do, and it is, there are still some rules that need to be followed when it happens. Also, these visits can be formal if that’s what you and your family are interested in. they do not have to be flashy events. Many people call these visits wakes, others may call them viewings, and then some refer to them as visitations. Visitations are similar to the other two, but they are special in their own way. You can make the visitations of your loved one’s body into whatever you would like them to be. If you need any more help when it comes to visitations, you can speak with cremation services in North Babylon, NY. They would love to help you.

What Is a Visitation?


A visitation is a scheduled time when loved one’s can come and spend time with the family of the deceased. These events do not have to be formal if you do not want them to be. They can be easy-going, which may be easier for the family of the deceased.

What Makes a Visitation?

  • Location – When it comes to visitations, you should pick a place that is calm and relaxed. In most cases, people will choose to have the visitation at their house. Since the body doesn’t necessarily need to be present, many people are ok with guests coming to their homes to pay their respects. If this is something you are comfortable with, then it would be a good idea for you to do it.
  • Guests – Whom you invite to the event is very important. You will want to make sure that family and friends are invited, as well as though who worked or went to school with the deceased. Making sure that everyone is included is a good thing. You will also want to make sure that you are careful not to invite anyone who may cause distractions.
  • Attire – Since this event isn’t as formal as the actual funeral itself, it is more than okay to dress in something a bit more casual and relaxed.
  • Food/Drinks – These things can help to ease the mood of the day. Everyone opens up a bit more when food and drinks are involved.
    Speakers - Although these are informal events, if you want to have someone speak, that would be a fine thing to do.

What Is the Difference?


Visitations, wakes, and viewings are often confused with one another. While they have similarities, there are also plenty of differences.

  • Visitation – A visitation is an event that is meant to take place at the home of the deceased’s family. During these events, guests are encouraged to wear normal clothing, come pay their respects, and then leave. These are very laid-back and relaxed events. Bodies are usually not present during visitations.
  • Wake – Wakes are much like viewings. The main difference between them is the fact that wakes have a much more religious connotation to them.
  • Viewing – During a viewing, the guests can see the body. This event usually takes place at the funeral home or church.

Having a visitation is a great thing to do. If you need help planning one, you can speak with cremation services in North Babylon, NY.

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