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Fall Grief Walk

  • The Woodlands 4000 Woodland Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA (map)

Fall Grief Walk on Tuesday, October 13

Gather at the front gates between 5:15 PM and 5:30 PM

The walk will begin at 5:30 PM and last until 6:30 PM

Fall is a season of transformation. Change is visible all around us. This workshop invites participants to explore the connections between grief, memory, and the cycles of nature within the quiet landscape of the cemetery.  Through readings, walking among the trees, writing, and optional group sharing, we will reflect on the ways the season may model for us ways to understand and navigate our grief.

Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring a journal and something to write with. The atmosphere will be contemplative, grounded, and welcoming, with space for both personal reflection and shared conversation.  Anyone who is grieving the loss of a loved one is welcome.  

About the Facilitator: Susanna Gilbertson is a social worker, facilitator, and certified grief coach

Registration: By donation; no one turned away for lack of funds ($20 suggested).

Note on Arrival + Departure Timing: Please plan to arrive between 5:15 pm and 5:30 pm. During this time, you can use the restroom and orient to the space; programming will begin at 5:30 pm. 

To create a container for this grief space, attendees who arrive late (after 5:30 pm) will be asked to refrain from joining the group walk and can instead take a self-guided grief walk using a Memorial for the Trees guide. Daylight is waning at this time of year, and the site will close at dusk, when the sun sets at 6:30 pm. 


KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

  • Accessibility: Check out our Accessibility Information for details on entering the cemetery, navigating the landscape, restrooms, building access, and more.

    • The sidewalks outside The Woodlands are made from historic brick

    • The site landscape consists of 2 miles of paved roads, brick paths, and grass. There are curbs along the majority of the paved roads. 

    • An ADA, gender-neutral restroom is located at the Stable (alongside three additional single-stall restrooms), about 1/4 mile from the front gate.

    • There is no seating provided for this event. Please consider bringing a chair or blanket for the reflection portion of the event.

  • Directions: The Woodlands is located at 4000 Woodland Avenue, directly across from the 40th Street Trolley Portal

  • Parking: Parking is available on the paved roads. Please park against the curb, single-file, leaving enough room for another vehicle to pass by. Please consider walking, biking, or taking public transit

  • Rain Date: This is a rain-or-shine event—please dress accordingly. If inclement weather arises that would be a concern for visitor safety, registered attendees will be contacted via email

This event is hosted by Susanna Gilbertson with The Woodlands functioning as the venue. If you have any questions about the content of the event, please contact Susanna. If you have venue-related questions, please contact The Woodlands. All events that take place at The Woodlands must receive written approval.

Earlier Event: October 9
After Hours: New Moon
Later Event: October 29
Members Halloween Party