Christ-centered Easter Traditions

Easter is a beautiful time to focus on Jesus Christ and His Atonement, death, and Resurrection. While the world often highlights chocolate bunnies and egg hunts, we as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have been asked to create meaningful traditions that center our families on the Savior.

Elder Gary E. Stevenson said, “This includes a greater and more thoughtful recognition of Palm Sunday and Good Friday as practiced by some of our Christian cousins. We might also adopt appropriate Christ-centered Easter traditions found in the cultures and practices of countries worldwide.” Here are some Christ-centered Easter traditions that will help bring the spirit of the season into your home.

Teaching Holy Week to Kids

One of the most meaningful ways to help children understand Easter is by walking them through the events of Holy Week. Each day, read scriptures and discuss what happened leading up to Christ’s Resurrection. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Palm Sunday – Read about Christ’s triumphal entry (Matthew 21:1–11) and let kids wave paper palm leaves, shouting “Hosanna!”
• Monday – Talk about Christ cleansing the temple (Matthew 21:12–17) and discuss the importance of keeping our lives and homes holy.
• Tuesday – Read about Christ’s teachings in Jerusalem (Matthew 22:36–40) and practice showing extra love and kindness to others.
• Wednesday – Discuss how Judas betrayed Jesus (Luke 22:3–6) and talk about staying true to Christ.
• Thursday (Last Supper & Gethsemane) – Have a simple Passover-style dinner and read about the sacrament (Luke 22:19–20). Talk about Christ’s suffering in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36–46).
• Friday (Crucifixion) – Read about Christ’s trial and Crucifixion (Luke 23:33–46). Some families wear black to symbolize mourning and keep the day reverent.
• Saturday – Reflect on what Christ’s disciples must have felt and talk about hope in Christ.
• Sunday (Resurrection!) – Celebrate with joyful music, a sunrise service, and reading about the empty tomb (Matthew 28:1–6).

Here are some done-for-you ways to teach your kids about Holy Week.

Resurrection Rolls

This hands-on activity is a delicious way to teach kids about the Resurrection. Each ingredient represents part of the story:

• Large marshmallows = Jesus’ body
• Crescent roll dough = The tomb
• Melted butter and cinnamon sugar = Spices used to anoint Christ’s body

Wrap the marshmallow inside the dough, bake, and when they’re done, the “tomb” is empty! This simple treat helps kids visualize the miracle of Easter morning.

Passover Dinner

A Passover meal can be a powerful way to teach about the Last Supper. While a traditional Jewish Seder includes many elements, you can simplify it by including:

• Unleavened bread (matzo) – Symbolizing the Israelites’ haste in leaving Egypt and also Christ as the Bread of Life.
• Grapes or grape juice – Representing the sacrament.
• Bitter herbs (parsley or romaine) – Reminding us of the bitterness of bondage and sin.
• Lamb or a symbolic substitute – Pointing to Jesus as the Lamb of God.
• Salt water – Representing tears shed in Egypt and Gethsemane.

As you eat, read scriptures about the Exodus (Exodus 12) and Christ instituting the sacrament (Luke 22:14–20).

Holy Week Guide

If you feel like Easter is taken over by secular traditions and want to make it more Christ-centered, start here! This guide will take you through Holy Week one day at a time with a scripture verse, study guide, and a daily activity to help busy families make Easter super meaningful without feeling overwhelmed. 

Watching the Sunrise (Son Rise)

Easter morning is a perfect time to wake up early and watch the sunrise as a family. The rising sun can remind us of the light of Christ and the joy of His Resurrection. Consider reading scriptures like John 8:12 (“I am the light of the world”) or singing hymns like He Is Risen! as you greet the new day.

Other Christ-Centered Easter Ideas:

• Easter Devotionals: Hold a special family devotional on Easter Sunday, focusing on Christ’s love and sacrifice.
• Christian Easter Egg Hunt: Fill plastic eggs with scriptures or symbols of Christ (a small cross, rock for the empty tomb, white cloth, etc.) instead of candy.
• Service Challenge: Spend the week leading up to Easter performing acts of service, reflecting Christ’s love.
• Lamb Cake or Cookies: Make a lamb-shaped cake or cookies, discussing how Christ is the Lamb of God (John 1:29).

By incorporating these Christ-centered Easter traditions, we can help our families truly experience the joy and hope of the Savior’s Resurrection. What are your favorite ways to celebrate Easter in a Christ-centered way? Share in the comments below!