The public health measures to remain at home and avoid other people are still in effect, meaning that families all over the province are going to have to change the way they celebrate the upcoming Easter weekend.
With so many cancellations already, it probably seems pretty upsetting to consider pulling the plug on the usual Easter traditions as well. The good news is that there’s nothing stopping the Easter spirit from continuing on anyway — it just means getting a bit creative.
Staying in the holiday spirit could be as easy as still cooking a special Easter meal, or dressing up in the usual Easter outfit, or starting some new holiday traditions that will carry on year after year.
Either way, self-isolation doesn’t mean Easter is over, so here are a few ideas that might help make this Easter feel like any other year.
Embrace the virtual to stay connected
As many families have likely already realized, setting up a video chat with extended family members and friends will be the best way to stay connected on the holiday this year.
With so many different video chat options available, it’s almost never been easier to stay connected with loved ones even when they’re miles away. Free apps like Skype, Houseparty, and the buzzing social isolation giant Zoom make it possible to include everyone on the guest list in that at-home holiday celebration.
Make some time to chat with each other, or even go the extra mile and arrange a video call Easter meal — which might be the only time some families allow smartphones or laptops at the dinner table.
Don’t forget about family members who are less technologically connected either. Take some time to call relatives on the phone and let them know they’re included as well.
Don’t cancel the Easter egg hunt
Just because neighbourhood-wide egg hunts are off the calendar this year doesn’t mean giving up on the idea entirely.
This is the year to get creative with that traditional idea: take your egg hunt into the backyard, or enlist the help of another relative or friend to help put together a virtual egg hunt at a distance.
One household hides the eggs, before video calling the other household and asking the kids to help them spot all the eggs they can as they move around the house — like a real-life video game.
Or, if chocolate and treats are scarce this year, substitute them with homemade paper eggs. Ask the kids to help decorate cut-out paper eggs and hide them around the house on Easter morning. Whoever collects the most eggs gets a prize, like choosing a movie to watch together that night.
Get creative with gifts
While large gatherings are certainly off the table this year, that doesn’t mean there’s no way to share a little positivity this Easter — right on someone’s doorstep, too.
Lots of businesses have moved to delivery or curbside pickup services, which means it's still possible to send a loved one a nice gift to let them know they’re on your mind.
Order a floral arrangement from a local flower shop like Ellen’s On Main or a festive Easter basket from the Chocolate Moose Fudge Factory and have it delivered to someone’s doorstep.
You can even purchase a delicious bottle of locally brewed mead from Prairie Bee Meadery and have it delivered to someone’s door with a personalized note.
Or even put together your own gift basket or write a kind note and leave it on the doorstep for a loved one collect after you’ve left.
Attend a virtual Easter service
Many local churches are now providing their services online, either through a live stream or through a recorded video. For those who traditionally attend a Good Friday service or an Easter Sunday service, it’s certainly still possible — and the couch is probably more comfortable than a church pew.
There are even churches across the country that are broadcasting services, for those interested in “visiting” a new church this Easter.
It’s also still possible to make a donation to the offering plate, so to speak, while attending a service at home. Consider making an Easter-inspired donation to a local organization that has personal importance, whether that’s a church, organization, or charity effort.
