Ideas for Celebrating Easter in Times of Social Distancing
Easter is the first holiday (along with Passover and Good Friday) that we, as a nation, are celebrating amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
As we learn to navigate this new world we are living in, new priorities and rituals will start to take place, and this might make you excited, or the complete opposite.
Just like many others, I’ve found myself resisting my new life as a kindergarten teacher to my son, and probably went through all the stages of grief at this point, and finally reached acceptance with what is.
You might find yourself going through this right now as this holiday approaches. Perhaps you are feeling sad and angry that you can’t celebrate the way you normally do, with the people you love. Or you might feel relief that you have an excuse not to gather with others for the usual festivities.
No matter how you feel, honor yourself and your desires for this day, and take notice on what you’d like to do differently next year, assuming life is back to “normal”.
Celebrating Spring and New Beginnings
I grew up in a catholic family, and even though we didn’t go to church, we celebrated all the christian traditions.
I learned about Easter and Good Friday at school mostly, and we celebrated by eating fish on Good Friday (because meat wasn’t allowed on this day), and having a special meal on Easter Sunday, as well as a hunt for my Easter basket.
I am no longer Catholic or a meat-eater, but I do celebrate some of these holidays still, and have adapted them to a way that feels good for my family and my spirituality.
Easter in our house is mostly about the Easter bunny, chocolate and treats, and colorful spring dishes. It’s a time to get together and have a reason to celebrate new beginnings and spring, with a beautiful table setting and intention.
Since we usually host Easter in our home, we’ll be doing the same, except it will be just the 3 of us for dinner. And I’m perfectly content with that.
Easter Celebration Ideas
How about trying something new this year since everything is different anyway?
Below you will find different themes I put together to help you celebrate Easter at home. I hope these inspire you to look forward to having a celebration this weekend!
I have linked some of the recipes I’m suggesting, but be sure to check out my Pinterest boards where I have curated vegan holiday recipes, vegan savory recipes, and vegan sweet recipes for easy pinning. Enjoy!
1. Easter-Inspired Breakfast
Set up a lovely table with a coffee carafe, tea pot, fresh juice, vegan chocolate croissants, and a lovely fresh flower bouquet.
Sweet treats and fruit all around and even bunny inspired pancakes will get everyone in the mood for celebrating!
Source: Pinterest
2. Elegant Vegan Brunch
Mimosas, coffee, tea and juice, followed by a baked dish or chickpea flour omelletes.
A variety of muffins, fresh fruit, cookies and a charcuterie tray will make for an elegant and tasty affair.
3. Afternoon Tea
Everyday is a good day for afternoon tea, so why not combine it with your Easter celebration?
Earl Grey and jasmine make it for tasty selections, served in a beautiful teapot.
Have a spread of cookies, cake, scones, jams and vegan clotted cream, along with small sandwiches (without the crust).
Set up a beautiful table with fresh flowers. Simplicity and elegance for the win!
4. Side Dishes Spread
If you are not a fan of cooking but still would like to put something together, this is a great alternative for you.
Get some store made dips (or whip up some yourself), and place them in beautiful bowls. Put a salad together, some fruit, and muffins that you either make yourself or purchased, and place them in festive bowls and cake stands.
Make a beautiful display on your counter or table where you place the bowls, cake stands, chips, crackers, breads, fruit and drinks.
Add a bouquet of fresh flowers and light refreshments and you have an elegant and casual set up!
5. Easter Backyard Picnic
This can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors while still keeping your distance from your neighbors.
If you are tired of being indoors, take your feast outside!
Create a selection of vegan cheese and crackers (perhaps make your own?), fruit, hummus, pita chips, olives, tabouli, stuffed grape leaves.
Add some wine, juice and water, and place it in a beautiful basket. Set it all up with real plates, glasses and a large blanket.
6. Traditional Dinner
For a more formal meal, create a traditional set up with candlesticks, fresh flowers, and table setting complete with cloth napkins and name cards.
Set the mood with beautiful music (Ella Firtzgerald anyone?), and start by serving a special cocktail.
Create a main dish and several complimentary dishes, as well as a sweet treat for dessert.
And be sure to have everyone dress for the occasion!
Find Ways to Connect
Even though we can’t all be together physically right now, if it’s important to you, be sure to find ways to connect with family and friends on this day. Facetime or Zoom can come in handy!
There are lots of amazing things being put together by groups of all kinds to come together on this day.
I personally will be checking out Andrea Bocelli’s live concert from an empty Duomo Chathedral in Italy. It will take place at 1pm EST on Sunday, April 12, 2020. You can watch it here.
However you find yourself celebrating, I hope you feel inspired to do what feels good to you. Whether that is a beautiful meal, or simply snacks on the couch. Either way, this could become your new tradition, because, why not? Your life is yours to design.
Much love,
Angélica Renée
