Sure, Passover and Easter are very different this year—but we‘re excited to make the most of the day and celebrate. Whether it’s a zoom meal together or a printable egg hunt around the house, there are many ways to make the day seem different from the daily homebound routine. For ideas, we asked the #NJMOM squad to share with us how you’re doing the holidays this year and here’s what you said:
featured image via @gracefullyfit_jen
Picture via Nicole F. on Facebook
Surprise Someone with a Gift
Sending a gift is a thoughtful way to remind your loved ones that your thinking of them this holiday, even though you can’t be with them. Send your mama or friend a cute accessory from a local business like My Sister’s Jewelry Box in Lavallette or order and ship some yummy chocolates to your nieces and nephews. And if you’re looking to be an Easter Bunny, there’s still time: Here are 33 candy stores all around New Jersey that are open for delivering and curbside pick-up.
Try a Printable Egg Hunt
“We usually have 20-25 family members over, but not this year. We will still have the Easter Bunny leave surprises for my kids when they wake up. Then, a small egg hunt for the kids in the morning like we usually do, and dinner for 5. Happy Easter everyone!!!!” via Sherry K. on Facebook
If you don’t want to waste real eggs (grocery stress, we know), try a paper egg hunt. The day before Easter, print out egg printables like these, pull out the crayons and markers and have the kids get to work decorating them. Put them in baskets for the “Easter Bunny” to hide around the house. The morning of have the kids hunt around for the eggs, collecting them in their baskets as they find them.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-W3wXkjni1/?igshid=1a3kus15eecqz
DIY Together
“We’re getting a make your pizza kit from a local place. Keeping it easy, letting our kid help. Also preparing an Easter egg scavenger hunt from the Easter Bunny to help my kid locate his basket!!” via Deanna F. on Facebook
Support local business and order a fun kit to do at home with the fam. From pizza making to Easter-themed cookie decorating, a DIY Kit can make the day special. And if you’re unsure of where to look, hit up our list of local NJ businesses selling DIY kits here. You can also plan to do themed-craft, like make bunny shaped crayons, or check out these fun craft projects that the #NJMOM squad is creating with things you can find around your house.
Have a virtual party
“Making a small meal for my family including some traditional dishes and zooming with other family members. Making a bunny cake ?” via Cynthia D. on Facebook
Although you can’t be with extended family in person, thanks to technology, you can still spend the day together. Set your laptop on the dining room table, use a video-conferencing app like Zoom or Google Meet, and call up everyone that you would normally spend the day with (and maybe invite some others to join the party). Be creative with your party—plan a morning brunch, Easter cocktails and dinner or play a game (try Pictionary) after dinner.
Dress up
You may be living in yoga pants these days, but to make the day feel more festive and to boost your mood—dress up. Have the kids wear their Easter outfits, put on makeup and a spring outfit, and tell the hubby to take a shower. ? It will go a long way to making the day feel different from the others.
“Our little family Passover seder last night.” via Marni G. on Facebook
Follow your usual traditions
Most holiday traditions begin with family and home, so keeping those up this holiday feel like it’s not that different from other years. Set the table with your nice china, bake your favorites or something new, cook up that holiday dish you always have for dinner (matzo ball soup, anyone?) and if you normally attend religious services, check out what your house of worship is doing virtually— many are live-streaming services.
What is your family doing for the holidays this season? Let us know in the comments below.
