More than 300 people who have lost family and friends attended the first annual Lantern Lighting Ceremony at Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum.

Families who attended can decorate lanterns in memory of their loved ones while listening to music and telling stories. 

Annie Servillo and her sister came to remember their parents Lee and Patrick Servillo.

“The place really makes you feel welcome with a lot of sympathy and compassion,” Annie Servillo says. “But, also with a great feeling of community and they do it in a creative way.” 

Marketing manager for Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum Kristyn Hovanec says families love that they can come to the cemetery and experience the beauty.

“…It changes the way they think when they come to visit,” Hovanec says. 

The event is free of charge to families and the public.