Lunch with the Smiths: The History of Cemetery Picnics and Similar Practices  

Noon Sunday, August 6, 2023

While picnicking in cemeteries may seem odd today, this practice was quite common in the 19^th century. The rural cemetery movement inspired the creation of garden-like cemeteries that became beautiful and accessible outdoor spaces in municipalities that still lacked proper recreational space. Entire families would visit their family plots regularly to picnic with their departed loved ones while enjoying fresh air. High mortality rates meant there were plenty of family members to visit and memorial monuments to maintain. While this practice is no longer popular, we are seeing a resurgence of cemeteries as recreational spaces in popular culture. 

You are invited to pack your picnic basket and join us for lunch in the Smith Family Cemetery at Windsor Castle. Please meet on the front steps of the historic house for a brief orientation. Then guests will walk to the Smith Family Cemetery located nearby to enjoy lunch while learning about cemetery picnicking and related cemetery practices. 

Meet on the front steps of Windsor Castle, 301 Jericho Road, Smithfield.