With food prices soaring and no relief in sight, hosting a holiday gathering can feel overwhelming. But celebrating Easter with loved ones doesn’t have to break the bank! I have never missed an Easter celebration for my kids and family even if I have to make homemade items. It’s just the joy of being together and making memories during the holidays. Here are some simple ways to keep costs low while still creating a memorable and meaningful holiday.
1. Host a Potluck
Instead of taking on the entire meal yourself, invite guests to bring a dish. Assign categories like appetizers, sides, or desserts to ensure a good variety. This not only lightens your financial load but also makes the gathering more communal. We love to host dinners where we all bring something, not only does it save us money but it opens the menu and adds new and exciting dishes and flavours for everyone to try. I am great at making yummy salads (this broccoli and bacon salad is amazing), devilled eggs, and tasty desserts when I attend a potluck.
2. Plan a Budget-Friendly Menu
Stick to simple, hearty dishes that feed a crowd without expensive ingredients. Think:
• Egg-Based Dishes: Deviled eggs or egg salad are affordable and festive.
• Pasta or Rice-Based Meals: A big batch of baked pasta or a rice dish can be filling and cost-effective.
• Ham Alternatives: If ham is too pricey, consider roasted chicken, turkey, or even a meatless option like a hearty vegetable casserole.
There are so many great recipes that make a large amount of food where the leftovers can last for days. Nobody says you have to have turkey, prime rib, or other fancy expensive meat to make a celebration special. You could even make this simple One Pot Cheesy Rice Dish and your family would be happy!
3. Shop Smart
• Buy in bulk when possible.
• Watch for sales on Easter staples.
• Use store-brand items instead of name brands.
• Opt for frozen or canned vegetables if fresh is too expensive.
I like to buy items on clearance and save them for the next year so I don't have to shop and buy everything at full price on the next holiday!
4. DIY Easter Decorations
Skip expensive store-bought décor and get creative!
• Egg Carton Crafts: Make cute baskets or bunnies from recycled cartons.
• Paper Flowers & Garlands: Use construction paper or old magazines.
• Nature-Inspired Decor: Collect branches, flowers, and leaves for a rustic table setting.
I have a huge list of DIY Easter crafts & decorations that will save you a fortune!
5. Affordable Easter Baskets
Instead of spending a fortune on pre-made baskets, make your own using:
• Dollar store items
• Homemade treats like cookies or popcorn
• Secondhand books or small toys
Kids don’t need a bunch of toys and chocolate to feel special. Make them a scavenger hunt (these amazing Easter scavenger hunt clues will help) to do in the backyard or take them for a hike and take some fun photos and they will be thrilled.
6. Free & Low-Cost Activities
• DIY Egg Hunt: Use plastic eggs from previous years and fill them with handwritten notes, stickers, or a few coins instead of expensive candy.
• Outdoor Picnic: If the weather is nice, move the celebration outside to a park or backyard.
• Movie & Game Night: A cozy evening with classic Easter movies and board games costs nothing!
Always watch for free activities being hosted by your town, ours used to do this huge Easter egg hunt where the kids would win prize baskets but our city grew so fast that now you have to be registered and under a certain age to participate.
7. Focus on What Matters Most
Easter is about togetherness, love, and creating memories—not how much money you spend. By keeping things simple, you can host a meaningful celebration without the financial stress.
How do you keep Easter affordable? Let’s share ideas and help each other out! 💡🐣
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