**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. Saturday 7th November 11am - 12.15pm in Holyrood Park. 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 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. Google map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/oy6XNm6FXcmjLYgPA](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 and bring a waterproof and water bottle or thermos. This activity is free and open to the public, but it's helpful if you register in advance so that we have an idea of numbers. Lara will be holding a sign that says 'To Absent Friends' and will be easy to identify on the day. With thanks to To Absent Friends small grant scheme for their support. This is part of a [festival of events](https://www.toabsentfriends.org.uk/blogs/festival-events-2026/) taking place across Scotland..

Description supplied by the event organiser.