Funerals. The word alone conjures up images of black attire, hushed voices, and somber music that could make even the happiest person feel melancholic. But what if we turned that idea on its head? What if instead of focusing on the sadness of the occasion, we celebrated the life that was lived with a splash of color, laughter, and yes, maybe even a Hawaiian shirt or two?

It turns out, a growing number of people are doing just that. In fact, according to a BBC report, up to 54% of people would prefer a themed or lighthearted funeral if given the chance. These aren't your traditional, stiff-upper-lip send-offs—they're vibrant, creative, and designed to reflect the personality of the deceased in a way that brings a smile to everyone’s face. After all, why not go out with a bang rather than a whisper?

If you’re intrigued by the idea of shaking up the usual funeral script, here are 10 unique funeral themes that will have people, quite literally, dying to attend.

1. Hawaiian Luau: When Black Attire Just Won’t Do

Forget the black suits and stiff collars—what about a splash of tropical flair? The Hawaiian Luau theme is all about embracing the laid-back vibe of island life, with attendees donning colorful Hawaiian shirts, leis, and flip-flops. The atmosphere is anything but mournful, as guests are encouraged to laugh, share stories, and sip piña coladas in honor of the person who is no longer with us. It’s the ultimate celebration of life with sunshine and smiles, even if it’s raining outside.

This theme works best for someone who had a love for the beach, tropical vacations, or who always knew how to bring warmth into a room.

2. Movie Premiere: Roll Out the Red Carpet for the Star of the Show

For the movie buff or aspiring star in your life, a movie premiere funeral theme can turn the somber into the spectacular. Imagine a red carpet leading into the service, guests dressed in glamorous Hollywood-style attire, and maybe even a projector playing some of the deceased’s favorite films or home movies. The program for the service? Designed like a playbill, of course.

This theme allows everyone to see the person as the star of their own life story—complete with a highlight reel of their best moments.

3. Superhero Send-Off: Because Legends Never Die

If the dearly departed had a soft spot for superheroes, why not let their final act be as heroic as they were? A superhero-themed funeral allows guests to don capes, masks, and costumes from their favorite comic book heroes, all while celebrating the courage and strength of the person who passed. Imagine the deceased going out to the soundtrack of The Avengers or Wonder Woman—because some heroes don’t wear capes, but they still leave an indelible mark on the world.

Perfect for the comic book lover or anyone who lived their life with a bold, fearless spirit.

4. Rock 'n' Roll Tribute: A Final Encore

For those who lived and breathed music, a rock ‘n’ roll themed funeral is the ultimate tribute. Swap out the traditional funeral march for an electric guitar riff, and have guests come dressed as their favorite rock stars. There’s no reason a final farewell can’t feel like an encore performance. Whether it’s classic rock, heavy metal, or punk, the tunes are loud, the memories are lively, and the legacy of the rock ‘n’ roller lives on.

Consider this for someone who spent their life jamming out, attending concerts, or maybe just singing way too loudly in the car.

5. Sports Extravaganza: A Final Victory Lap

For the sports fanatic, what better way to go than with a sports-themed send-off? Whether the deceased was a die-hard baseball fan, an avid soccer player, or a marathon runner, guests can come dressed in their favorite team jerseys, and the service can take on the feel of a celebration in a stadium. You could even organize a memorial game afterward—because what better way to honor a life lived in competition than by gathering for one last match?

This theme is ideal for the competitive spirit, the lifelong athlete, or the person who never missed a game.

6. Carnival of Life: Because Why Not Have Cotton Candy at a Funeral?

If you’re looking for something truly unique, the Carnival of Life theme might just be it. This whimsical send-off turns the funeral into a celebration that feels more like a fair than a farewell. Think carnival games, bright colors, popcorn machines, and maybe even a clown or two (for those who aren’t terrified of clowns, that is). It’s a lighthearted, fun way to reflect on the joy the person brought to the lives of those around them.

For someone who was always the life of the party, loved fun and games, and never took life too seriously.

7. The Great Gatsby Gala: A Roaring Twenties Send-Off

For the lover of all things vintage and glamorous, the Great Gatsby funeral theme brings the glitz and glam of the 1920s to their final party. Guests arrive in their finest flapper dresses, pearls, and bow ties, ready for an elegant affair filled with jazz music, champagne toasts, and maybe a little bit of dancing. It’s a celebration that’s less about saying goodbye and more about throwing one last extravagant party in honor of a life lived with style and grace.

This theme is perfect for anyone who loved a touch of sophistication and wasn’t afraid to dress to the nines.

8. Fantasy Farewell: One Last Quest

For fans of fantasy worlds, a Fantasy Farewell theme can make their funeral feel like the final chapter of an epic adventure. Whether they were into Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, or Game of Thrones, guests can dress as their favorite characters from the fantasy realm, and the service can be designed to feel like the closing of a magical journey. Instead of “ashes to ashes,” maybe we’ll go with “You shall not pass... until you’ve had a proper toast!”

This theme is a great fit for the person who was always off on an adventure, whether real or imagined.

9. Western Showdown: The Final Roundup

For the cowboy or cowgirl at heart, a Western-themed funeral is the perfect way to ride off into the sunset. Picture it: guests in cowboy boots and hats, maybe a few horses outside the chapel, and a soundtrack straight out of an old Western movie. Instead of floral arrangements, think cacti, hay bales, and lassos. It’s a funeral that tips its hat to the Wild West and the rugged life of the person being honored.

For someone who lived a life full of independence, adventure, and a love for wide-open spaces.

10. Space Odyssey: To Infinity and Beyond

If the dearly departed was a lover of space, science fiction, or all things out of this world, why not send them off with a space-themed funeral? Guests can come dressed as astronauts, space explorers, or even aliens, celebrating the great unknown and the infinite possibilities that await beyond this life. Whether you play David Bowie’s "Space Oddity" or opt for a more celestial soundtrack, this is one send-off that’s sure to be out of this world.

This theme is ideal for someone who always had their head in the stars or dreamed of galaxies far, far away.

The Final Farewell

In the end, a themed funeral is about more than just keeping things light—it’s about celebrating the individuality of the person who has passed. It’s a way to ensure that their personality, their quirks, and their passions are reflected in every aspect of the service. After all, funerals don’t have to be entirely about loss—they can also be about love, laughter, and honoring the beautiful, sometimes quirky lives we’ve had the privilege to be a part of.

So, what theme would you choose for your own farewell party? A Hawaiian luau, a superhero send-off, or a final trip to the stars, there’s no reason why your goodbye can’t be as unique and colorful as the life you lived. Talk to your funeral director about your preferred funeral theme. They can be useful in helping guests get the memo.