Death Cafe Raleigh
Join us on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 6:30pm
Coffee, cake, and honest conversation about death.
Death Cafe is a relaxed, welcoming gathering where people come together to talk about death, dying, grief, planning, curiosity, fear, and everything in between.
There is no presentation, no agenda, and nothing to buy. Just conversation.
What Is a Death Cafe?
Death Cafe Raleigh is an open table conversation where we cover any topics about death and dying. Death Cafes happen in over 98 countries. The Death Cafe model was developed by Jon Underwood and Sue Barsky Reid, based on the ideas of Bernard Crettaz.
Death Cafe is NOT a grief support group.
Grab Coffee & Something Sweet
Come in, get comfortable, and meet the people around you.
Join the Conversation
There are usually a few conversation starters, but the discussion goes wherever the group takes it.
Talk or Just Listen
No one is required to share. Listening is completely fine.
Come As You Are
There is no right background, belief, age, or amount of experience with death required.
Here are a few things we talk about at Death Cafe Raleigh
- Fear of dying
- What makes a good death
- Funerals and rituals
- Talking with children about death
- Medical aid in dying
- Advance planning
- Spirituality or the absence of it
- What happens to our bodies
- Things we wish people talked about more
- Death in movies and books
What Death Cafe Is Not
It is not a grief support group.
It is not counseling.
It is not a lecture or class.
It is not a place where anyone will try to sell you funeral services.
Do I need to RSVP?
An RSVP Is not required, but it's helpful to make sure we can plan seating. You can RSVP to Heather@RFHR.com
Is Death Cafe religious?
No. Death Cafe is not connected to any particular religion or belief system. Conversations may include spiritual beliefs, religious traditions, atheism, uncertainty, or none of the above.
Do I have to talk?
No. You are welcome to participate as much or as little as you want. Some people jump right into the conversation and others prefer to listen for a while.
Is there a cost to attend?
No. Death Cafe Raleigh is free to attend.
Is anything being sold?
No. Death Cafe is not a sales event or a funeral planning presentation. Renaissance provides the space, food, and drinks, but there is no sales pitch.
Is food provided?
Yes. Food, coffee, and something sweet are part of the gathering. Eating while talking about mortality is pretty much on brand for Death Cafe. We provide salad usually and some dips. Please don't feel the need to bring anything, but you are welcome to.
Can I bring someone with me?
Absolutely. Friends, partners, family members, coworkers, or anyone else who is curious are welcome.
Who attends Death Cafe?
There really is no typical attendee. Adults of different ages, backgrounds, professions, beliefs, and experiences come together around one thing we all have in common: none of us gets out of this alive.
We're Here When You're Ready
Whether you need guidance now or are planning ahead, we're here to listen and help you take the next step.