Tag: Easter

5 Last-Minute Easter Activities

Easter is here. Are you ready? Did the holiday just sneak up on you this year? Well, do not worry there is still plenty of time to do last-minute activities for your entire family to enjoy. Check out the following list for inspiration.

1. Attend Church Services

Regardless of your religious background, attend a local church service. Many churches hold special services on Easter Sunday. The church may have special readings, singing, plays, and children’s events. Just remember to check the church’s website or Facebook page before going. The church may have social distancing and other restrictions in place.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, numerous churches are holding virtual services if you do not want to attend church. Attend a church service right in your home, you can even watch while eating breakfast.

2. Color Easter Eggs

Yes, you can buy a kit. Or you can use food coloring from your baking supplies. Dyeing Easter eggs is a great activity. Mix different colors, make patterns or add designs. Coloring eggs is a long-standing Easter tradition.

3. Easter Egg Hunt or Scavenger Hunt

Whether you use your dyed eggs or hide plastic ones, an Easter egg hunt is fun for everyone. Now to make the hunt more interesting for older children, turn the activity into a scavenger hunt. Provide clues to your hidden eggs or Easter baskets.

4. Easter Meal

Find a way to make your meal special for Easter.

  • Sit together at the table. Bring out your good dishes, add candles, make an Easter centerpiece, or add flowers. Remember to turn off your devices.
  • Add a special dessert.
  • Bake the meal together as a family.
  • BBQ outdoors.
  • Order in from a nearby restaurant.
  • Have a picnic.

Just enjoy your time together as a family.

Image by Terri Cnudde from Pixabay 

5. Family Night

Turn your Easter into family night. Eat leftovers or order pizza.

  • Watch movies together. It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown (1974) is always a great family show to watch.
  • Play video games.
  • Play board games.
  • Have a bonfire.

    Easter Drawing Prompts

    Easter is the perfect time to get creative. Drawing is one of the simplest ways to bring out your inner artist. In fact, with a few inexpensive tools, drawing is a great activity for the entire family to enjoy.

    Image by stokpic from Pixabay 

    Yes, using crayons on paper is a wonderful way to create an original Easter masterpiece. But do not limit your creativity. Draw on other materials including construction paper, sandpaper, poster board, and boiled eggs. A hard boil egg is the perfect canvas for your Easter creation.

    Now, what to draw? Consider the following drawing prompts for Easter.

    1. Cross

    2. Tomb

    3. Easter Bunny

    4. Easter Eggs (Drawing different patterns, use multi-colors, or add names)

    5. Flowers

    6. Baby Chickens

    7. Lamb

    8. Jellybeans

    9. Easter Candy

    10. Easter Sunrise

    19 Journal Writing Prompts for Easter

    Easter is only a few days away. The holiday is a perfect time for reflection. Do you need some extra inspiration on what to write in your journal? Check out the following writing prompts for Easter.

    Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay 
    1. What does Easter mean to you?
    2. Do you attend church services during this Holy Week? On Good Friday? Or on Easter Sunday? Why or why not?
    3. Write a prayer list for this Easter.
    4. Did you attend Easter Sunday services as a child? What was your most vivid memory?
    5. Did you dress up for Easter as a child? Describe what you would wear to Easter Sunday.
    6.  Do you still dress up for the holiday?
    7. Are you hosting an Easter dinner this year? What is your Easter menu?
    8. What do you have planned for Easter with your family or friends? Or even you favorite pet?
    9. Is there a family favorite that you only cook or bake on Easter? Why is this dish important to serve?  
    10. Did you change your annual Easter plans due to the pandemic? Why?
    11. How is this Easter different from 2020 at the height of the pandemic?
    12. What is your best childhood memory of Easter?
    13. Did you get Easter baskets as a child? Describe your typical basket on Easter morning.
    14. Did you attend any Easter egg hunts as a child? Describe the events.
    15. Did you dye eggs for Easter? What was your favorite part about coloring Easter eggs?
    16. Do you plan to dye eggs this Easter? Why or why not?
    17. What was an Easter tradition from your childhood?
    18. Do you carry on the tradition with your family today? Why or why not?
    19. After Easter, write down how your day went. Go into complete details. Even the silliest moment from your day can turn into a treasured memory.

    The Extra Easter Basket

    Easter is a great way to spread joy with friends, family members or casual acquaintances. Attending church services, Easter egg hunts, and other community events are generally a normal part of the holiday weekend. Due to the pandemic many annual events may not be held.   

    For many, creating Easter baskets is a major part of the celebrations. As you begin to play the honorary role of the Easter bunny, consider making an extra Easter basket to share. The simple kind gesture may have a positive impact on someone’s whole day or even week. One spark of kindness may set a chain reaction without end.

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    Image by Terri Cnudde from Pixabay 

    Sharing the Extra Easter Basket

    Are you wondering who may need an Easter basket? Consider all the people; you come in contact with on a daily basis. Still, need ideas? Check out the list below.

    • Friends
    • Extended family members
    • A child who you know is not getting an Easter basket due to financial restraints. (Remember you may need to ask permission to give a child an Easter basket. Some foods and toys may not be allowed.)
    • Teacher
    • Bus Driver
    • Child Care Provider
    • Dog Walker
    • Coach
    • Classmate
    • The barista who always gets your morning order correct.
    • Your dog’s pal at the park.

    The list is endless. Just think of someone who may need an extra smile this time of year.

    Non-Candy Easter Basket Fillers

    Easter is just around the corner. Are you starting to buy Easter basket fillers? Do you want something different than candy? Check out the following list for inspiration.

    1. Bubbles
    2. Books
    3. Bookmarks
    4. DVDs
    5. Color Books
    6. Crayons
    7. Markers
    8. Drawing Paper
    9. Construction Paper
    10. Hard Cover Sketch Book
    11. Drawing Pencils
    12. Colored Pencils
    13. Watercolor Paint Set
    14. Craft Kit or Supplies (Feathers, googly eyes, beads, string, glitter, wooden plaques, etc.)
    15. Air Dry Model Clay
    16. Lip Balm
    17. Jewelry (A cross necklace is always a good idea for this holiday)
    18. Sidewalk Chalk
    19. Stickers
    20. T-Shirt (Roll the shirt up to place down into the basket)
    21. Socks
    22. Playdough
    23. Toy Figures (Farm animals, dinosaurs, etc.)
    24. Sunglasses
    25. Beach Towel
    26. Flip Flops
    27. Beach Bucket and Shovel
    28. Hat
    29. Swimming Pool Toys
    30. Keychain
    31. Bath Toys
    32. Bath Bombs
    33. Magazines
    34. Comic Books
    35. Hair Ties
    36. Head Bands
    37. Nail Polish
    38. Nail Embellishments
    39. Shoelaces
    40. Expandable Washcloths
    41. Stickers
    42. Temporary Tattoos
    43. Golf Balls
    44. Tees
    45. Baseball
    46. Baseball Glove
    47. Softball
    48. Yo-Yo
    49. Travel Games
    50. Toy Cars
    51. Gift Card
    52. Money (Roll up dollar bills inside plastic eggs)
    53. Jump Rope
    54. Umbrella
    55. Glow Sticks
    56. Writing Journal
    57. Pens
    58. Calligraphy Pens
    59. Trading Cards
    60. Ear Buds

    12 Easter Basket Ideas for Your Dog

    Let’s face it; your dog is a valuable member of your family. For many, a dog or two is your constant companion. Creating an Easter Basket for your four-legged friend is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday.

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    Easter Basket Ideas for Your Dog

    1. New Collar: After the long winter, your dog’s collar may need replacing. Consider a brightly colored one for the warmer months ahead.
    2. Bandana: A new, holiday-themed bandana to wear around on Easter Sunday is the perfect addition to your dog’s basket. When you’re picking out one, grab a couple extra for summer. Bright colors are always fun for the upcoming warmer weather.
    3. Squeaky Toys: A new squeaky toy may annoy you but your dog will love it.
    4. Dog Biscuits: Nutritional value dog biscuits are an ideal snack for your favorite dog to enjoy.
    5. Dog Bones: Dogs love bones. If you are uncertain on the type to buy your favorite four-legged friend, consult your veterinarian.
    6. Dog Treats: A bag of your pup’s favorite dog treats are perfect for the Easter basket. Or feel free to make your own.
    7. Doggie Fashion Wear: Shirts, coats, hats, and even pajamas are all available for your dog to enjoy.
    8. New Ball: A ball or a Frisbee is perfect for playing catch with your pooch. The extra exercise is good for your dog and you.
    9. New Stuffed Toy (Dog Approved): A stuffed bunny or other dog toy is fun for your dog. In many cases, the dog is not really stuffed. But you get the idea.

    Okay, these do not technically fit into your dog’s Easter basket but you get the idea.

    1. Visit the Doggie Park: A trip to the doggie park, a hike or a walk is a great way to release energy. The extra exercise will tire your dog (and you) out for a good night sleep.
    2. Attend a Pet-Related Easter Event: Many pet food suppliers or other pet-friendly establishments host Easter community events for dogs. Try something new. Due to COVID restrictions, remember to call ahead to get details of the event and social distancing guidelines.
    3. Photo with the Easter Bunny: Many organizations host Easter Bunny photos for pets as a way to raise funds. As a pet owner, you will get a memorable photo of you and your dog. At the same time, the price of the photo goes to a good cause.

    Whatever you do for Easter, take time to cuddle and love your faithful companion.

    Celebrating Easter at Home

    Celebrating Easter at home may not have been your original plan. Yes, the big family gatherings will not happen this year. Canceled Easter Egg hunts, church services, and other events are inevitable. The pandemic brings changes to protect your health.  But there are still numerous ways to make Easter special.

    Start by turning off the news. Unplug from your devices. Set your cell phone to vibrate. Simply enjoy the quality time with the ones you love.

    Make a Family Meal

    Dust off your baking skills and cook a homemade family meal to enjoy together. Do not forget dessert. Bake some cookies or other special treats to celebrate Easter. When baking, ask your children to help. Even younger children can help pour, measure, or stir the batter. The quality time will turn into a lasting memory. For added fun, decorate the table together.

    Do you want to do something different than a traditional Easter meal?

    • Pull out the grill and BBQ for Easter.
    • If the weather is warm, consider an outdoor picnic. Or set up a picnic in your living room.
    • Order from a local restaurant. Many food establishments are still open for delivery and curbside pickup.

    Dress Up for a Family Photo

    Most cameras come with a self-timer, which is perfect for a family photo. Dress up in your Sunday best. Yes, you can take off your good clothes after the picture. The photo will be a lasting reminder of celebrating Easter at home.

    Set Up a Photo Booth

     Using a sheet, tablecloth, or bare spot on the wall for background creates an instant photo booth. Pull out hats, scarves, beaded jewelry, and other accessories to add to the fun. Use a poster board, index cards, or construction paper to make photo props. Bunny ears, an Easter 2020 sign, mustache, big smiles, or glasses are easy to make. Place your prop cut-outs on wooden dowels, popsicle sticks, or hold with a clip clothespin.

    Dye Easter Eggs

    Even if you do not have any Easter dye, you still can color eggs. Use food coloring, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and boiling water to make a color mixture of your choice. Stir the solution, allow the contents to cool, and dye your eggs.

    Listen to a Church Service

    Numerous churches are hosting services online. Listen to an Easter service before starting your day. The words may bring you comfort and joy this Easter season.

    Do Easter Crafts

    Spend the afternoon, crafting as a family. Do not know where to start? Pinterest has numerous ideas for Easter crafting.

    • Paint or Draw an Easter scene
    • Cut out Easter eggs from construction paper or plain paper to design.
    • Make collages out of everyday materials, including cotton balls, magazine pictures, cloth scraps, etc.
    • Paint Easter eggs.
    • Make placemats for your meal.

    Call Loved Ones

    Easter is definitely different this year with social distancing and self-isolating. But, you still can keep in touch with loved ones. Call, text, message, or video chat with friends and family.

     

    Easter Week Bucket List

    The week of Easter is generally busy with preparations for dinner and other events. Creating an Easter week bucket list helps you to enjoy the holiday week.  Gather your family or friends to find the perfect Easter activities to celebrate this time of year.

    Easter Week Bucket List Ideas

    Do you need help coming up with Easter bucket list activities? Consider the following ideas:

    1. Make Homemade Easter Decorations: Spend time creating your own Easter decorations. Use construction paper to make Easter eggs and other related decorations. The process is a fun family activity for everyone to enjoy.
    2. Make and Deliver Homemade Easter Cards: Homemade Easter cards adds a special touch to the greetings. The activity is an ideal family time activity.
    3. Go to a Local Easter Egg Hunt: Many community organizations hold Easter egg hunts. Or you can host your own Easter egg hunt in your backyard.
    4. Go to the Library or your Local Book Store: Checking out or purchasing Easter books helps set the mood for the holiday week.
    5. Decorate, Fill and Deliver an Extra Easter Basket: Do you know someone who could use some Easter cheer. Make an extra basket for a family member or friend.
    6. Watch Easter Themed Movies: Check out Netflix or purchase a new Easter DVD. Make popcorn and host a family night.
    7. Buy Easter Peeps: Peeps are an Easter tradition. For extra fun, try placing the Peeps in the microwave.
    8. Make an Easter Diorama: If you do not eat the Peeps, you can always add them to an Easter themed diorama. Creating an Easter diorama is a perfect decoration piece for your holiday weekend.
    9. Attend a Good Friday or Easter Service:  Many churches host special Good Friday and Easter services. Even if you do not regularly attend, the service may be an uplifting experience.
    10. Host an Easter Dinner or BBQ: Plan a dinner or cookout for your family and friends. Gathering people together for Easter makes the holiday more memorable.
    11. Buy Easter Candy: Everyone loves holiday candy. The wide selection allows you to find the perfect treat for your family to enjoy.
    12. Dye Easter Eggs: Gather your family or friends together to dye Easter eggs. Dying eggs is a long standing Easter tradition.
    13. Photo with the Easter Bunny: Many community events host Easter bunny photo opportunities to help raise funds. The photo instantly becomes a memento. At the same time, you will be supporting a valued community organization.
    14. Professional Easter Portrait: Dressing up and getting a professional portrait is a perfect Easter activity.

    Participating in different Easter activities is fun for the whole family. Cross one or all of the ideas off your bucket list.

    75 Non-Candy Ideas for Easter Baskets

    Are you getting ready to purchase Easter basket supplies? Keep in mind, Easter baskets do not necessarily need to be filled with lots of candy. Non-candy basket fillers provide fun alternatives to sweet treats.

    75 Non-Candy Easter Fillers

    1. Bubbles/Accessories
    2. Umbrella
    3. Kite with String
    4. Rain Boots
    5. Stickers
    6. Markers
    7. Gel Pens
    8. Crayons
    9. Easter Coloring Books
    10. Art Paper
    11. Colored Pencils
    12. Water Color Paints
    13. Lip Balms/Lip Gloss
    14. Books
    15. Comic Books
    16. Journal/Diary
    17. Make-up
    18. Nail Polish
    19. Hair Accessories
    20. Play Dough
    21. Movie Tickets
    22. Puzzles
    23. Sidewalk Chalks
    24. SD Cards
    25. DVDs or Coupons for Digital Downloads
    26. Barbie Doll and Clothes
    27. Die Cast Cars
    28. Sunglasses
    29. Stuffed Bunnies and Animals
    30. Balls
    31. Lego Mini Packs
    32. Bubble Bath
    33. Action Figures
    34. Jewelry
    35. Ear Buds
    36. Marbles
    37. Flashlight
    38. Pool or Other Outdoor Toys
    39. Slippers
    40. Uno or Playing Cards
    41. Sports Trading Cards
    42. Bookmarks
    43. Small Bags of Chips or Crackers
    44. Granola Bars
    45. Gift Cards
    46. Video Games
    47. Plastic Farm Animals
    48. Magnifying Glasses
    49. Baseball Cap
    50. Ball and Glove
    51. Animal Crackers
    52. Reusable Travel Cups
    53. Pail and Shovel
    54. Jump Rope
    55. Socks
    56. Slinky
    57. Silly Putty
    58. Expandable Washcloths
    59. Key Chains
    60. Balloons
    61. Punch Balls
    62. Yo Yo
    63. T-Shirt
    64. Jerky
    65. Reusable Straws
    66. Glow Sticks
    67. Glow in the Dark Stars
    68. Temporary Tattoos
    69. Pokemon Cards
    70. Compass
    71. Craft Kits
    72. Posters
    73. Ink Pad and Rubber Stamps
    74. Kid Garden Tools
    75. Magazines

    Mix and match different items to make the perfect Easter basket for your child.

    Tips for the Perfect Easter Celebration

    The Easter holiday is almost here. Are you considering hosting an Easter dinner with family or friends? Take a deep breath and do it. Life is short, celebrate every moment without hesitation. Gathering friends and family around the dinner table is all you need for a joyous occasion.

    Tips for a Perfect Easter Holiday

    Depending on your individual tastes, an Easter dinner can be formal or casual. Preplanning will help you Easter day celebration go smooth. Consider the following tips to assist you as you plan the perfect Easter celebration.

    1. Guest List

    Creating a guest list is necessary to help you plan. Due to the short time frame, you may need to make some phone calls or use the Internet to help. If your guests are on Facebook, consider making a private event page to help you plan. The creation of an event allows you to invite your guests, correspond about the meal and other activities.

    2. Menu

    After confirming the number of guests, planning the menu should be your next step. Menu planning can be extremely elaborate or simple

    • Cater: Local restaurants generally offer catering service for the holidays. Catering allows you to leave all the cooking and baking up to the restaurant. If you decide to cater, call as soon as possible to ensure availability.
    • Cook Yourself: Cooking and baking a large meal is a lot of work. But the personal satisfaction of a job well done is the best reward. Take the time to plan the meal, shop ahead of time to ensure you have all the ingredients, and enjoy the process.
    • Pot Luck Style: Easing some of the cooking demands, ask your friends or family members to bring a dish to pass. A variety of dishes can actually add to the holiday fun.
    • Desserts: If you do not have time for a full course meal, consider a dessert bar. Invite friends and family over later in the evening after they have met their family commitments.

    3. Decorations

    Decorating your table or home always adds to the holiday cheer. The decorations do not need to be elaborate. Making decorations is a perfect family time experience. Using construction paper, consider making placemats, name cards, or a centerpiece.

    If you are doing decorations, your imagination is the limit. Pinterest and other crafting sites show all sorts of Easter decorating ideas. Due to time constraints, purchase decorations or Spring flowers for your centerpiece.

    4. Kid Stuff

    How many children are going to be at your event? Do you have a plan to keep them busy while you make last minute preparations? Keeping children busy with holiday-related activities, allows you to concentrate on cooking without worry. Children love to create and take items home. Setting up a children’s area or planning outdoor activities is the perfect solution.

    • Host an Easter egg hunt.
    • Easter coloring books and crayons
    • Dye Easter eggs
    • Set up a crafting table with Easter themed supplies
    • Make small Easter baskets to hand out as take-home gifts

    Hosting an Easter dinner does not need to be stressful. Planning and asking for help from friends and family will help you have a joyous occasion.