Festival 2025

To Absent Friends Wander in Holyrood Park

Organised by Humanist Society Scotland

Holyrood Park, Edinburgh

Thursday 6th November, 12 noon - 12.45pm

This activity is open to the public. Please register in advance.

People who have died remain a part of our lives – their stories are our stories, yet many Scottish traditions relating to the expression of loss and remembrance have faded over time.

To Absent Friends, a People’s Festival of Storytelling and Remembrance is an opportunity to revive lost traditions and create new ones.

Join us for a gentle, thoughtful wander and an opportunity to remember, to tell stories, to celebrate and to reminisce about people we love who have died.

We will pause at the poet-tree to read some poetry, and if you wish to (no obligation), you can share a little about your loved one and/or write their name on an autumn leaf and scatter it into the wind to return to nature. We will then continue to walk up to Dunsapie Loch before returning back.

The walk will be facilitated by Lara, a Humanist Celebrant and the Community Engagement Manager for national charity Humanist Society Scotland.

Starting and finishing at the Lilyhill Terrace entrance to Holyrood Park (inside the park gate, opposite 49 Lilyhill Terrace, EH8 7DR)  A seven minute walk from the bus stop on London Road (at Meadowbank House).
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oy6XNm6FXcmjLYgPA

Unfortunately the path is not suitable for wheelchairs, and includes some steps, and muddy, uneven surfaces. Participation is at your own risk. Please wear appropriate clothing for the Scottish weather including walking boots and a waterproof and bring a water bottle or thermos.

This activity is free and open to the public, but please register in advance so that we have an idea of numbers:

https://www.meetup.com/edinburghhumanists/events/311777109/

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