National Grieving Day: The best of Irish traditions sparking healing and hope around the world

“Ireland needs to grieve before we can move on.” That's the view of Lydia Kiernan, founder of National Grieving Day, which is taking place in Ireland and around the world next Tuesday, December 3.

The Day is aiming to incorporate Ireland’s rich heritage around grieving, with events around the country, including a keening session, giving people an opportunity to sit with and move through their hurt, loss and grief towards celebration, hope and light.

Since it launched in Ireland two weeks ago, it has quickly spread with over fifteen grieving events now being held across seven countries including Ireland, England, France, Netherlands, Australia, USA and the Philippines.