Light in the Darkness takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Astoria Nordic Heritage Park, with a brief ceremony at 6 p.m.

Sponsored by the Astoria Scandinavian Heritage Association, the outdoor event honors those who have passed away. It’s also a fundraiser for the park.

In case of severe weather, the event will be moved to 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday; the change of date will be announced on the park’s Facebook page and website.

Sixty memorial candles will be lit in honor of those who are missing this Christmas season. Their names will be read during a brief ceremony of music, poetry and song. Scott McMullen will be emcee. Sirpa Duoos will explain the significance of the candles, and local poet Jim Dott will read an original poem on grief, written especially for the occasion.

Viking Nordic Dancer Malachi Cummings will read additional poetry, and Leila Collier will sing “En etsi valtaa loistoa,” a Christmas song by Jean Sibelius. McMullen, Collier and Duoos will read the memorial names.

Seating is sparse at the park, so participants are encouraged to bring a chair if they need one. VASA Swedish Astor Lodge No. 215 and Friends of Suomi Hall will supply coffee, hot cider and cookies, and there will be seasonal Christmas music.

For information, or to donate, go to astorianordicpark.org/contribute.html#.