People across Wyre Forest are being invited to celebrate the lives of loved ones they have lost at one of KEMP Hospice’s most moving events. The KEMP Hospice Butterfly Release returns to Bodenham Arboretum on Saturday 12 September 2026, offering families and friends the opportunity to dedicate and release a live butterfly in memory of someone special, while helping to fund the hospice’s vital care and bereavement services.
Now in its fifth year, the event has become a poignant occasion for people of all ages to pause, reflect and remember. Whether someone was cared for by KEMP Hospice or not, everyone is welcome to dedicate a butterfly to someone they love and miss.
Against the beautiful backdrop of Bodenham Arboretum, the morning will feature a live performance from the West Midlands Concert Band, providing a moving soundtrack before hundreds of butterflies take flight together in a symbolic act of remembrance.
Every butterfly released represents a treasured life, while every dedication helps KEMP Hospice continue to provide specialist care and support for local people living with life-limiting illness, alongside counselling and bereavement services for children, young people and adults throughout the Wyre Forest community.
Ian Carr, Head of Fundraising & Communications at KEMP hospice said “Grief doesn’t have a timetable, and many people tell us they simply want somewhere to remember the person they love. The Butterfly Release gives people that opportunity. It is a peaceful, uplifting event where families and friends can come together to celebrate lives, share memories and watch the butterflies take flight. It is an incredibly emotional moment, but also one filled with hope and reflection.”
The event is open to anyone wishing to remember a loved one, and those unable to attend in person can still dedicate a butterfly, which will be released on their behalf by the KEMP team.
As well as creating lasting memories for those attending, every donation made through the Butterfly Release helps ensure KEMP Hospice can provide its services free of charge.
The KEMP Hospice Butterfly Release which is kindly sponsored by Gaunts of Kidderminster, takes place at Bodenham Arboretum on Saturday 12 September, with arrivals from 10am. Entertainment will be provided by West Midlands Concert Band before and after the butterfly release.
To dedicate a butterfly or find out more, visit the KEMP Hospice Butterfly Release web page www.kemphospice.org.uk/butterfly