From Bunnies to Baskets: Fun and Meaningful Easter Customs to Try

Ah, Spring…

Growing up in the Midwest, we had the privilege of experiencing the significant changes that the four seasons bring. There is something magical with each change, and yes, some challenges. Spring brings the flowers blooming and warmer weather. Almost in an instant, summer heats up, and we knew what the "dog days of summer" really meant. Then, the beautiful and colorful foliage and harvests set the stage for the winter chills where the snow could be found in "feet" and not "inches."

But if asked, spring is my all-time favorite not only because of the signaling of the end of winter and the beginning of warmer days but because the buds are starting to form on branches, and those perennials start to grow again. I am not a gardener, but I can't stop smiling when the crocuses, daffodils, and cherry blossoms start showing their vibrant colors. Change and the circle of life are the most vivid in spring.

As I start packing the winter sweaters and pulling out the flip flops, maybe a little earlier than nature wants me to, the signs are clear, and the dormant winter months are gone.

So, with Easter celebrations right around the corner, my memory of why Easter is not a set day of the year is somewhat fuzzy. I remember something about the first full moon after the vernal equinox, something about Church tables, and something about a Julian Calendar, or is it the Gregorian calendar…. I guess it's time for a Google search.

What I do know is that Easter can fall anytime between March 22nd and April 25th. The last time it fell at the beginning of that window was 1818; the latest date was found in 1943. This year, we find ourselves on March 31st.

Regardless of the date, there are unique ways that families can use Easter to strengthen family bonds and pass down cherished traditions. As kids, we had some great traditions that are being resurrected now that the grandkids are in the picture. Blessing of the Easter baskets, Easter Egg hunts, the special Sunday outfit that included white gloves and new patent leather shoes, you know, those coated in a glossy, shiny finish.

What traditions, stories, and customs are you going to pass on?

I will begin my Easter celebrations with the classic tradition of egg decorating. However, I plan to take it up a notch by adding rubber bands to create patterns on the eggs. I might even have some fun by shooting a few of them across the room. It's incredible how even the simplest things, like rubber bands, can trigger happy memories and bring a smile to our faces throughout the year.

Another family favorite is our yearly tradition: Mom makes a lamb cake from a cast iron mold and pound cake batter. This annual tradition has morphed into an extended family competition that is voted on using social media. It's serious fun and a cherished tradition. You would be amazed at the creativity of this group. Of course, I haven't "won" yet, but the memories my grandson and I make are priceless.

Since we are of Polish descent, the blessing of the Easter Baskets starts with a standard straw basket lined with a white linen cloth, filled with symbolic foods like bread, eggs, salt, our lamb cake, ham, and oranges. These are blessed on the Saturday before Easter and devoured for Easter brunch.

So, think about it; dig into your past; what did you do? Did you make Easter cards, plant spring flowers in eggshell planters, release butterflies starting from a cocoon, or share a laugh over a video call? If nothing jumps out at you, create something new.

Easter is the time to weave traditions and family together. By embracing time-honored customs and creating new ways to celebrate, we can make a rich, memorable Easter experience for our grandkids.

Let's use this Easter as a time of joy, renewal, and creating new memories that will be cherished for generations to come. So, what are you going to do?