What is a "wake"?

What is a "wake"?

Dan Redmond (Cemetery and Funeral Inspector, California Department of Consumer Affairs ) gives expert video advice on: What are the basic considerations when planning a funeral?; Do I need to use a funeral home to have a funeral?; What are the customary elements of a funeral? and more...

A wake is where a person is laid in state. A wake means that the body is prepared in a manner that allows people to be able to see the person and give their last respects to that person. A wake is usually held in the evening, and it's mostly tied to religious observances. It's usually held the day before the funeral itself.