Resources
Grief support
Creative ways to observe anniversaries for the departed

Creative ways to observe anniversaries for the departed

When we lose a loved one, we want their memory to live on – in our daily lives, in the world around us, and in our hearts. But sometimes, it can be difficult to picture them without a shadow of grief obstructing your view.

And that’s okay; after all, as actor Andrew Garfield stated, “Grief is all the unexpressed love that we never got to give to the other person.” Even as you learn to live with your grief, it’s important to remember the relationship you shared with the departed.

To ensure that you’ll always hold your memories close, the following 20 ideas are tried-and-true ways to create traditions on the anniversary of your loss. Use these ideas to gather with your support group, try something new, and commemorate your loved one.

Simple ideas:

Sponsor an important cause in your loved one’s name. You can support a family in need, or sponsor an animal, a tree, coral, museum artifact, etc.
Commission a memorial necklace, pair of cufflinks, or ring to wear on the anniversary.
Try blackout poetry with the lyrics of one of your loved one’s favorite songs.
If you have a digital frame, set it to show videos/photos of your loved one for the anniversary week.
Grab your loved one’s favorite snack or dessert and share it at work or with friends/family.
Binge your loved one’s favorite show with a friend.
If you run a small business, consider offering an anniversary discount to people who have the same name as the departed.
In a journal, write about memorable moments with your loved one. Consider adding sketches, stickers, postcards, or pictures to the anniversary entry.
Carry a print photo of the departed with you throughout the day. Write a small message to them on the back. At the end of the day, you can put the photo away in a special container, and use a new photo for the next anniversary.
If you’re adopting a pet soon, consider naming it after your loved one’s middle name or nickname.

Hands-on activities

Set up a memory altar, table, or wall for the day/week of the anniversary. This can include photos, special keepsakes, figurines, flowers/plants, and candles.
If your loved one had a fun nickname, consider creating a drink mix based on their favorite flavors.
Plant a special tree, bush, or perennial flower on the anniversary date. If your living space doesn’t have a yard, consider reserving a spot in a community garden or trying an indoor plant instead.
Volunteer for an organization that was important to the departed.
If you’re visiting your loved one’s place of rest, this can be a good time to give it some TLC. You can clean the stone, polish the bronze, and replace flowers.
Join an Adopt-a-Road program in honor of your loved one.
Invite a few friends to partake in your loved one’s favorite activity – one-day crafting workshops, board games, bowling, movie screenings, food tours, hiking, and professional sports are just a few of the limitless options.
If you have your loved one’s shirts, commission a quilt made with them (or sew it yourself if you can).
Create a comprehensive memory book that can be passed to future generations. Review books with multiple biographies for ideas on how to model your loved one’s section.
Design a memory wreath with ribbons of your loved one’s favorite color and trinkets they were fond of. Place it on a table or hang it in a safe location.