Our Mission

Our mission is to shift the narrative around death from one of taboo and fear to a space of open dialogue, education, and community strength.

Our Vision

Our Objectives

The Legacy Expo envisions a world where those who guide others through life’s final transition are fully supported, uplifted, and deeply valued.

• Demystify and Destigmatize

  • We aim to transform the way society views death and legacy planning by fostering open and normalized discussions.

• Educate and Empower

  • Attendees will receive invaluable information and tools to make informed decisions about their legacies and end-of-life care.

• Build Community

  • The Expo will create a supportive environment where people can share their journey’s, learn from each other, and find solace in a collective experience.

We believe in Unity in community—this is our foundation. Creating a forum for collective minds to participate and contribute towards our vision, will empower and educate others.

Our Why

Save the date! May 3rd, 2026

The next Legacy Expo is in Ottawa on May 3rd, 2026

Ottawa's 2nd annual Legacy Expo Weekend

The Ottawa Legacy Expo is so much more than just an afternoon showcasing what the city has to offer. It is a weekend of events rooted in community, support, and bringing people together to have those tough conversations we so often avoid.

Friday May 1st Death Over Drafts

Picture this: you’re at your favorite brewery, drinking your favorite beverage of choice, and exploring life’s questions on death and dying. You’re connecting with others who are also curious about the topic, and you’re in a safe space that allows for these tough conversations to happen.

Death Over Drafts is a casual, community-driven event with origins in Los Angeles, California, that brings people together over drinks to have open, meaningful conversations about death, dying, and end-of-life planning. We make these gatherings on a taboo topic, fun and approachable, turning them into a casual, engaging experience with games like "The Death Deck" to kick off the conversation.

This is the perfect event for those that may be a bit weary about talking about death, but are curious to get the conversation started. Whether you're looking to connect, reflect, or enjoy some thought-provoking chats, all are welcome.

This is the perfect event to kick off the Legacy Expo Weekend!

How can we talk about death? What is a good death? Does the body need help to die? What quality of life is enough for us? Where do we want to die? What is a conscious death? Could we have one?

Through stories from professionals who have spent their careers at the bedside, Saying Goodbye opens the door to good conversations about what is possible as we pass from this life, and what that may look like for us and our loved ones.

Exploring what happens after death not only helps us decide how we want to be cared for at the end of life, but it reduces our fear of death and that, as is often said, helps us live more fully.

Experts featured in the documentary:

Rev. David Maginley, M.Div; Rev. Olivia Bareham; Dr. Ann Marie Chiasson, MD; Julie McFadden, RN; Dr. Penny Sartori, PhD; Dr. Peter Fenwick, MD; Sue Brayne, MA; Dr. Anthony Bossis, PhD; Dr. Andrew Holecek, DDS; Jill Schock, MTS; Dr. Laurie Mallery, MD; Dr. Paige Moorhouse, MD.

Saturday May 2nd Film Screening

Sunday May 3rd The Legacy Expo

Hosted by Damselfly Death Doula and the When You Die Project, the Ottawa Legacy Expo is designed for individuals and families navigating the complex topics of end-of-life planning, elder care, advanced planning, and legacy creation. Locals can expect to learn about services offered in Ottawa from those within the community.

With 30+ vendors and four unique presentations people will be able to learn about green burials, how to talk to children about death, how to become better prepared in creating estate planning, and even learn about support groups offered for those grieving the loss of a pet. From Death Doulas to long term care homes, the Legacy Expo is a safe space to explore what Ottawa has to offer under one roof.

Curious and open minds are welcome and encouraged to come! Talking about the end of life and death can be a powerful tool in letting go of our fears and anxieties.