Festival 2023

Café Conversations – Remembering Absent Friends

Organised by Eddleston Cafe Conversations

1-10 November 2023

Eddleston

Eddleston Cafe Conversations was set up as a resource for the community. It aims to provide a non-judgmental space for people to ask and discuss the big questions about living, dying and grieving. It is built on the understanding that we are a community with different experiences and expertise, and that through sharing we can help support each other through challenging times.

There will be a series of three community ‘get-togethers’ to mark the To Absent Friends festival.  One will take the form of a candle-lit remembrance gathering which will take place in our local Church and will be a led activity including specially selected pieces of music and storytelling passages. The other two events will take place in Eddleston Village Hall over two lunchtimes and will involve small groups (including a volunteer to help get the ball rolling) sharing stories and memories of friends and family who are no longer with us whilst enjoying light refreshments.  

A floral tribute in memory of absent friends will be stationed in the village, creating an important space for private reflection and contemplation.

Photo credit: Jo Oliver