A meaningful Easter: 5 simple ideas that don’t cost the earth

In our family we celebrate a number of seasonal festivals, from well-known ones like Easter and Christmas to lesser-known ones like Candlemas, St John’s Tide and Michaelmas.

I think that as a human family we have moved far from our roots in the natural world. That has brought great innovation in some areas, but it has also severed our connection to a shared truth: we are all creatures of this world. We breathe the same air, drink the same water and need the same fire to warm our bodies and hearts.

Without a living relationship with nature, it’s easy to forget the turning of the seasons. I believe that by consciously connecting with natural rhythms we can share an experience that connects us to our place within the whole planet and cosmos.

Festivals are also a welcome release from ordinary routine – even everyday tasks become extraordinary when they’re part of a festival. They’re good for the heart, and sharing them with our children matters. Every year we have Easter baskets and an Easter tree, we hang the same felt eggs with hidden treats inside, hold an egg hunt and plant bulbs.

In our home, Easter is about rebirth, new beginnings and that energetic spring feeling. Here are some simple ideas to make it meaningful.

1. Read Easter and spring books

We swap our usual books for a seasonal basket. Spring picture books and stories about transformation really resonate at this time of year.

2. Make a mindful jar

Take a mindful minute each day to sit with the spring feeling of renewal. We also hold others in our thoughts and send kindness to those who need it. Write down people, thoughts or intentions and keep them in a mindful spring jar.

3. Make time for family

Time is one of the most precious gifts we can give. Sharing a meal and playing games shows children what we value.

4. Easter arts and crafts

Most of these can be enjoyed by every member of the family:

• “Good News” cards. Make cards with crayons, pencils or simple handmade stamps and write “Good News!” on the front. Talk about who to share them with, then deliver them together.
• Tissue-paper flowers.
• Bunny hats – something silly for everyone to wear.
• Salt-dough decorations. Salt dough costs almost nothing and is as pliable as playdough but dries hard. Cut out egg shapes and stamp patterns in, or paint them once dry.
• Decorating eggs – fun for all ages and a lovely way to bring the family together.

5. Prepare a special meal

What’s for dinner matters less than the atmosphere you create. Sharing food has always been part of human culture. We love a Simnel cake (we LOVE marzipan!).

For a festival meal we lay the table nicely and use our “other” plates. We don’t buy flowers, but I cut a bunch from the garden. We have a centrepiece and a candle, say a verse together and enjoy a slow meal. I’d encourage children to help in the kitchen – my girls do all the peeling and chopping.

Festivals bring welcome changes of atmosphere, colour and space. We belong to a patchwork world, woven together with festivals and traditions – common threads that cross cultures. What do Easter and the spring equinox mean to you and your family, and what could you weave into your own celebrations?

Find spring printables in our Seasons & Festivals collection.