Tom Tom Festival 2023

The green burial movement is gaining traction in the United States as a sustainable, meaningful, and restorative option. Statistics abound describing the environmental impact of what we consider “traditional” burial, as well as other disposition methods in the United States. Green burial offers a sustainable alternative to such practices, urging people to take a hard look at what they are truly leaving behind, and empowering individuals in their end-of-life decision-making. Green burial prompts discussion around returning to the earth and how this is truly the most environmentally-friendly final disposition.

This launch event and open house will introduce Charlottesville to Panorama Natural Burial, a new business of Panorama Farms that provides an open and inclusive space to learn about green burial and make informed end-of-life decisions. In addition to being a final resting place for loved ones, Panorama Natural Burial plans to host a variety of small-scale community events. Our hope is to be a space for people to learn, gather, reflect, and connect in the Charlottesville area as we redefine and return death care to its ancient roots.

We’ll begin the day with a brief dedication ceremony (11 AM) followed by remarks about Panorama Natural Burial’s benefits to the county and the increasing awareness around end-of-life choices (12 PM). Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch and blanket and enjoy the beautiful fields and forest, visit information stations, and take part in thought-provoking activities designed to encourage open conversation about death.