Celebrating Easter is a long-standing family tradition for families across the world. Celebrating the resurrection of Jesus is a major Christian holiday (and holy day). How does your family celebrate Easter? Have you established any traditions outside of those learned as a child? Here are three Easter family traditions to consider this holiday season.

1. Retell the story of Jesus before sitting down to a family meal together.

If the children are agreeable, they can act out the story. Let them begin preparing a week or so in advance. This will help keep the account of Jesus in the forefront of their minds. It will build excitement and anticipation as they prepare for the big day. Plus, it’s a good way to see what clarity they have gained on the subject, especially small children. They will have fun and learn their Christian heritage at the same time.

2. Pick a specific element of Easter and research its history.

You can do this as a family unit or invite extended family members to share in the festivities. Your family can research an element of Easter and ask your guests to research a different element. For example: Your family can research the meaning of the palm branch and its significance to the Easter celebration. Your guests can research another topic, such as what is the importance of Jesus riding on a donkey or why was he in the grave for three days. While this is educational and spiritual, this shouldn’t turn into a research project. Keep it fun for everyone.

3. Choose a way to serve as Jesus did on the holiday.

Offer your services to a local soup kitchen or homeless shelter. Offer to fix a meal at the Ronald McDonald House or to serve families with ill children. Make Easter baskets and drop them off at a shelter. Be creative; discover a way to serve your community as a family. Jesus was the master servant and leader. On this holiday, how can you exemplify the traits of Jesus as a part of your celebration?

There are many traditions already in place, such as a new Easter outfit, Easter baskets filled with candy, a big meal together, going to church as a family and Easter egg hunts. This year, add something new to the mix, which extends beyond what has been done throughout the ages. I hope one of the three ideas here will fit your family. If not, use them as a starting point and come up with something else that serves your family well.

BMWK, what fun ways do you celebrate Easter with your family?