Do Funerals Happen On Saturdays?

In the UK, the planning of a funeral involves many decisions—some emotional, some logistical. One of the most common questions families ask when arranging a service is: do funerals happen on Saturdays? While weekday funerals are often the norm, Saturday funerals are certainly possible and, in many cases, increasingly preferred. Understanding how Saturday funerals work can help families make arrangements that suit their schedules, beliefs, and emotional needs without feeling restricted by tradition. In this blog, we’ll explore the practicalities, benefits, and considerations involved in holding a funeral on a Saturday, including availability, cost, and how local customs and services—such as those here in Peterhead—affect what’s possible.

Are Saturday Funerals Allowed?

Yes, funerals can and do happen on Saturdays in the UK. There is no legal restriction preventing a funeral from taking place on a Saturday, and many funeral directors, crematoriums, and cemeteries offer this option. However, Saturday funerals are slightly less common than weekday services, primarily due to the reduced availability of staff and venues. The flexibility largely depends on the specific location and the type of service being arranged. For instance, crematoriums and council-managed cemeteries may operate reduced hours or require additional notice for Saturday bookings. Meanwhile, some churches and places of worship may have other commitments on Saturdays, especially if the premises are used for community events or weddings. In areas like Peterhead, funeral providers such as Victoria Funeral Home work closely with local venues to accommodate Saturday services when requested. It’s all about coordination, communication, and making sure everything aligns with the family’s wishes.

Why Choose a Saturday Funeral?

For many families, the choice to hold a funeral on a Saturday is about practicality. With busy work schedules, school runs, and other weekday obligations, it can be difficult for relatives and friends to attend a weekday funeral without taking time off or arranging childcare. A Saturday funeral offers a convenient alternative, often resulting in a higher turnout of mourners who want to pay their respects but might otherwise struggle to do so. Saturday funerals are also popular among families who wish to take more time planning a meaningful service without feeling rushed. Weekday funeral slots, especially in larger towns or cities, can sometimes feel limited or tightly scheduled. A Saturday may offer more breathing room for families to gather, reflect, and say goodbye without the pressure of a packed weekday calendar. In some cases, a Saturday service may hold emotional or symbolic significance. A specific date or anniversary might fall on a weekend, and holding the funeral on that day could feel more meaningful or appropriate for the family.

Availability of Funeral Services on Saturdays

The availability of funeral services on Saturdays varies depending on your location and the type of funeral you are arranging. In cities and larger towns, crematoriums and cemeteries may offer Saturday slots, albeit with limited capacity or higher fees. In smaller communities like Peterhead, local authorities and service providers often do their best to accommodate requests for weekend services but may require more notice to coordinate staffing and logistics. Religious services may be influenced by the customs of the faith. For example, Saturday is the Sabbath in Judaism, and traditional Jewish burials do not take place on Saturdays. Meanwhile, in Christianity, Saturday services are generally acceptable, though some churches may have limited availability due to weddings or other religious commitments. It’s always best to speak directly with your chosen funeral director to understand what options are available in your area. At Victoria Funeral Home, we liaise with all necessary parties—crematoriums, celebrants, clergy, and venues—to secure a Saturday service if that’s what works best for the family.

Are Saturday Funerals More Expensive?

Cost is an important consideration when planning any funeral, and many families are understandably concerned about the potential for additional charges on weekends. In general, Saturday funerals do tend to be slightly more expensive than weekday services. This is mainly due to increased staffing costs, as funeral professionals, venue staff, and sometimes even clergy are required to work outside their usual hours. Crematoriums and cemeteries may also apply weekend surcharges for use of their facilities. These fees vary depending on the local authority and service provider. However, the difference in cost is usually manageable, and many families find the convenience and accessibility of a Saturday service well worth the additional expense. It’s also worth noting that some funeral homes offer flexible pricing structures or package options that make Saturday funerals more affordable. At Victoria Funeral Home, we are committed to transparent pricing and work closely with families to find a solution that fits their budget, regardless of the day of the week.

Planning Ahead Makes a Difference

Because Saturday funerals are in higher demand and offer fewer available slots, planning ahead is key. If your family is considering a Saturday service, it’s wise to let your funeral director know as early as possible. This allows more time to coordinate with all involved parties, from crematorium staff to celebrants, florists, and musicians. Early planning is especially important if you’re hoping for a Saturday during peak periods such as school holidays or around Christmas and New Year, when demand may be higher and staffing more limited. By expressing your preferences early in the process, your funeral director can reserve your preferred date and time and avoid last-minute complications.

Local Insight: Saturday Funerals in Peterhead

In Peterhead and the surrounding Aberdeenshire area, Saturday funerals are available but do require coordination. Some local crematoriums and cemeteries, such as those managed by Aberdeenshire Council, offer limited Saturday appointments and may apply additional charges. That said, the close-knit nature of the community often means that service providers, clergy, and venue managers are willing to be flexible. At Victoria Funeral Home, we regularly assist families in arranging Saturday funerals across Peterhead, from Meethill Cemetery to local churches and crematoriums further afield. With the right planning and local knowledge, it is entirely possible to arrange a dignified, meaningful Saturday service here in Peterhead that honours your loved one and works for your family’s schedule.

Alternatives to a Saturday Funeral

If a Saturday service is not available or not financially feasible, there are other ways to accommodate family and friends who cannot attend during the week. One option is to hold a smaller, private funeral during the week, followed by a memorial or celebration of life on a weekend. This can offer greater flexibility and still allow everyone to come together in remembrance. Another alternative is live-streaming the funeral service for those who are unable to attend in person. This option became more common during the pandemic and continues to be widely used. It’s a respectful way to include mourners from afar or those who are unable to travel due to health, work, or other commitments.

Emotional Considerations

From a personal perspective, many families find comfort in being able to gather on a Saturday. It allows more time to prepare mentally and emotionally, without the rush of weekday pressures. Attendees may feel more present and less distracted when they don’t have to return to work or juggle daily responsibilities immediately after the service. Children and young family members are also more likely to attend a weekend funeral, allowing for a fuller family presence and intergenerational support during a difficult time. Ultimately, the emotional benefit of having loved ones around you—free from the stress of weekday obligations—can be a powerful reason to consider a Saturday service.

Final Thoughts

So, do funerals happen on Saturdays? The answer is a clear yes, though availability, cost, and logistics may vary. With thoughtful planning and the support of a local funeral director, arranging a Saturday funeral is not only possible but increasingly common. Whether you choose a Saturday for convenience, emotional reasons, or symbolic significance, you can rest assured that your loved one’s farewell will be just as respectful and meaningful. If you’re based in Peterhead or the surrounding area and are considering a Saturday service, Victoria Funeral Home is here to help guide you through the process. We work closely with local venues, cemeteries, and families to ensure every detail is managed with care and dignity—whatever day of the week you choose. For advice, availability, or to begin planning a Saturday funeral, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Victoria Funeral Home Ltd provides comprehensive funeral arrangement services. With years of experience, we help families plan simple and detailed funeral ceremonies. Contact us.