A Humble Easter, Joy in Full Bloom, Eggs Optional

A Humble Easter Guide to Finding Joy Beyond the Egg Carton. Celebrate with Creativity, Community, and the True Spirit of the Season

I love spring and all the celebrations it brings. It’s a season when nature reawakens... trees bud, flowers bloom, and the days stretch just a little longer. Everything about this time reminds us that even the hardest seasons eventually give way to growth and light. For many, it’s a time of spiritual renewal; for others, it’s simply a chance to pause, reconnect, and reflect. Whether through time with loved ones, meaningful traditions, or quiet moments of peace, the heart of Easter, like spring itself, lies in hope, compassion, connection and the small joys that help us feel whole again.

But even as the world around us begins to bloom, many are carrying the quiet weight of a difficult year. The thought of hosting or celebrating might feel more overwhelming than joyful. Still, Easter was never meant to be about extravagance. Its spirit lives in simple things... fresh air, shared meals, soft laughter, and the hope that gently returns like wildflowers after winter.

Here are five thoughtful ways to celebrate Easter this year, whether you're gathering loved ones or simply savoring the season in your own quiet way.

1. Let's talk Eggs! (And egg alternatives for decoration!)

Eggs have been at the heart of Easter celebrations for centuries, symbolizing new life, rebirth, and the hopeful arrival of spring. According to folklore, the Easter Bunny began delivering eggs as a whimsical way to welcome the season—and really, who could resist the charm of that tradition? Well… maybe a few vegans. Luckily, I’ve got some creative (and egg-free) ideas just for them.

While egg prices may have soared, the joy of tradition doesn’t have to slip through our fingers. This Easter, get playful with creative alternatives that bring just as much charm—without cracking a single shell. Craft keepsake eggs from wooden blanks, salt dough, or air-dry clay. Fold colorful origami eggs or string together cheerful paper garlands. Papier-mâché, yarn-wrapped cardboard cutouts, and even painted rocks make for whimsical, low-cost fun.

Better yet, head outside with your kids for a springtime walk and turn it into a scavenger hunt for egg-shaped rocks. Give them a good wash, then paint or decorate them together—nature’s own Easter canvas.

Not into rocks? Decorate smooth avocados, potatoes, mini eggplants, kiwis or bright lemons with natural dyes or stickers. Or bake up a batch of oval-shaped sugar cookies and let the decorating begin. They can double as charming (if not exactly cheaper) table décor ... bonus points if you decorate them to match your menu. Whether you're crafting, baking, or gathering, there are plenty of ways to keep the spirit of the season alive... no eggs required.

Gather old newspapers, fabric scraps, or recycled wrapping paper to create a charming, eco-friendly decorating station. It’s not about perfection... it’s about sharing creative moments and the joy of togetherness.

And if you do decide to go for real eggs, it might still be the least expensive part of your celebration. A few extra dollars here won’t break the bank, and the joy of the tradition can make it all worthwhile. You can cut costs in your other areas of celebration.

Not using real eggs this year? Try Deviled Potatoes—a cheeky little twist on deviled eggs using halved baby potatoes filled with a mustardy, herby mash. They’re surprisingly adorable and just as satisfying to make (and munch!).

Read My Articles:

1. Egg-Scuse Me, But We're Out: Creative Substitutes for Cooking Without Eggs

2. Beyond Cow's Milk: Navigating the World of Milk Substitutes (Plant-Based and Non-Traditional Milks)

2. Plan a Potluck-Style Brunch

Easter brunch has long been a favorite tradition, bringing together friends and family to share a relaxed, hearty meal after a morning of festivities. Think eggs, pastries, and fresh salads... each dish a reflection of the season’s bounty and the spirit of renewal. So, why not make this simple, shared meal part of your own holiday tradition?

Instead of carrying the full weight of the meal, invite friends or family over for a potluck-style brunch where everyone brings a dish. Not only does this keep costs low, but it creates a sense of community and shared joy. You can even add a playful theme like "Hop into Spring," "Pastel Plates," or "Carrots & Cottontails" to bring extra fun and cohesion to the gathering.

A few simple springtime recipes can add color and charm to your table without much effort. Try a Lemon-Herb Spring Pasta Salad—just pasta, bright green veggies like peas or asparagus, a splash of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Light, fresh, and perfect served warm or cold. Or go for Spring Pea & Mint Crostini: a quick blend of peas, mint, and lemon on toasted bread slices. It’s like a garden party on a cracker.

Skip the new store-bought decorations and instead, use what you already have: pastel scarves, jars filled with wildflowers, or hand-drawn signs made by little ones. Make renewing the old into something new part of your tradition.

If you’re hosting a larger gathering, consider co-hosting with a neighbor or another family. Sharing the cost and effort makes it all the more manageable... and much more joyful.

If the weather’s on your side, take the party outdoors. A backyard or park picnic can be simple and memorable, with sandwiches, fruit, lemonade, and plenty of sunshine as your backdrop for a delightful day of renewal.

For a backyard brunch or springtime picnic, whip up a pitcher of Strawberry-Basil Lemonade. Blend fresh (or frozen) strawberries with lemon juice, sweeten to taste, and toss in a few basil leaves for a subtle twist. Poured over ice and served under the sun, it’s pure spring in a glass.

3. Keep the Candy Simple

Easter has always been a time for sweet indulgence, with candy symbolizing the joy and renewal of the season. But the beauty of Easter sweets lies not in a towering pile of sugar, but in thoughtful, hand-crafted moments of sweetness.

Instead of overloading on pricey chocolates, try creating a few homemade treats -- chocolate-dipped pretzels with pastel sprinkles, or gooey marshmallow treats shaped like bunnies and eggs.

A whimsical idea: fill hollowed-out chocolate eggs with small candies like jelly beans or chocolate buttons to add a sweet personal touch. Homemade goodies have a special kind of warmth, like they were made with care and a sprinkle of springtime magic. And best of all, sharing these little treats spreads smiles as easily as sugar.

If you're leaning into homemade treats, try Carrot Cake Bites—no baking required! Just mix shredded carrots, oats, nut butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon, then roll into little bites of spring. Chill and serve. Sweet, cozy, and easier than you’d think. These little goodies are perfect for sharing—and somehow even more special when they’re made by hand.

4. Enjoy Free or Low-Cost Community Events

Easter isn’t just about what’s on the table. It’s about the shared moments that bring the season to life. Many local churches and community centers host charming, free Easter egg hunts, sunrise services, or spring concerts that capture the essence of renewal and connection. These events are a beautiful way to gather with neighbors, friends, and family while soaking in the joy of the season without spending a cent.

Imagine little ones dashing through the grass on a hunt for brightly colored eggs, or the peaceful calm of a sunrise service as the world wakes up around you. These community gatherings offer the perfect opportunity to reflect on the deeper meanings of Easter, and most importantly, share the holiday’s joy in a simple, meaningful way.

5. Focus on the Meaning, Not the Merchandise

Easter is a perfect time to reflect on what truly matters: connection, renewal, and hope. Take a moment to share the meaning of Easter with your loved ones, whether through storytelling, reflection, or prayer. Create traditions around activities that nurture the soul, like a gratitude jar, an Easter scavenger hunt, planting seeds, making spring-themed drawings, or a “spring walk challenge” where you find signs of new life: flowers, birds, and budding trees. You could read a passage, light a candle, or simply enjoy quiet moments together.

In uncertain times, the heart of Easter can shine even brighter.

It’s a time to be reminded of resilience, renewal, and the simple joys that bring us together. With a little creativity and a focus on what truly matters, Easter can be rich in joy, meaning, and togetherness.