Planning a funeral day requires understanding what to expect in terms of duration. Whether you are organizing a loved one's funeral or planning your own, here are the typical timeframes in Quebec.
The visitation period
The visitation is when the family receives condolences from visitors. In Quebec tradition, it can be held:
- In a single session: typically 2 to 4 hours, often on the evening before the ceremony
- Over two evenings: some families prefer two 2–3 hour periods on consecutive days, particularly if a large number of visitors is expected
- On the morning of the ceremony: one hour of visitation immediately preceding the service
Visitation length depends primarily on the size of the deceased's social network and the family's preferences.
The funeral ceremony
The ceremony itself — whether religious, secular, or hybrid — typically lasts between 45 and 90 minutes. A Catholic ceremony with a full Mass can last up to 90 minutes. A well-structured secular ceremony is often shorter, around 45 to 60 minutes. Ceremonies with many personal tributes or live music may run slightly longer.
Burial or ash handover
The cemetery service (burial of the casket or urn) typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes. If the family travels in a cortège from the funeral home or church, travel time must be added. For families receiving ashes after cremation without a cemetery service, the handover typically takes just a few minutes at the funeral home.
The reception
Many families organize a meal or reception after the ceremony. Duration is variable — typically 1 to 3 hours — but this is not strictly part of the funeral service itself.
Factors that affect duration
- Religious tradition (some rites are longer)
- Number of people who speak
- Presence or absence of live music
- Distance between the funeral home and the cemetery
- Family personal preferences
If you are planning a pre-arrangement, you can specify your preferences regarding ceremony length and format in your contract.
Updated: March 2026