Apr 10, 2020 8:00 AM
Author: Melissa Gee
Springtime brings some special holidays, with colorful festivities, family gatherings, and messages of peace. This year, however, things might be looking a little different. It’s important to follow physical distancing guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate from the comfort of your own home. Try some of the following ideas to celebrate Easter or Passover in quarantine style.
1. Prepare traditional foods
Whether your family celebrates with matzah, egg salad, or scalloped potatoes, food is often a central part of holiday festivities. And it’s a tradition that you can easily participate in from your home! Look up recipes for your favorite holiday foods and spend some quality time in the kitchen with your family. If you’re not in the mood to cook a big meal, you can even order from a local restaurant. (This list is a great resource to find special Easter takeout deals currently being offered in Salt Lake City.)2. Look back on photos and memories from past years
You might not be able to celebrate in all the same ways you’re used to, but reminiscing on your family’s favorite traditions can help. Ask family members to share a holiday photo or story in a group chat and enjoy reading everyone’s responses!3. Meditate or pray
Especially in this time of uncertainty, meditation and prayer can be a great way to calm your nerves, reduce stress and anxiety, and find peace. No matter your beliefs, you can spend some time reflecting on things you’re grateful for, or simply take some deep breaths and observe what you’re feeling physically or emotionally.4. Go for a walk
Physical distancing doesn’t mean you can’t get out to enjoy the sunshine and warm temperatures. Walk around your neighborhood and look for bright, springtime flowers in your neighbors’ yards. (Just make sure to keep a safe distance from others!)5. Participate in an online worship service
Many local churches offer livestreams of their services so you can take part without ever leaving your home. See if your congregation has any special Easter or Passover events online, or check out a service from another faith to learn how they celebrate.6. Get creative with sidewalk chalk
Chances are your neighbors are feeling just as anxious and cooped up as you are. Write some cheerful messages on the sidewalk to brighten their day or draw some colorful Easter eggs for them to find the next time they pass by.7. Enjoy some music
Nothing lifts the spirits like music. Create a playlist of music centered around Easter or Passover (or even just songs that make you smile!) and play it around your house while you go about your day.8. Make festive crafts out of household items
A quick online search brings back hundreds of results for fun, simple crafts you can make with items you already have lying around the house. Use craft paint and balloons to make colorful “Easter eggs,” design a personalized afikomen bag out of felt, or turn cut-up egg cartons and colored paper into cute baby chicks.9. Show support for health care workers who are working through the holidays
Many doctors and nurses are risking their health and sacrificing time with their families to care for sick patients at this time. Show your appreciation and support by tying a white ribbon somewhere in your front yard or writing a message of gratitude on social media with the hashtags #HealthCareHeroes and #UtahCares.10. Have a special dinner with family and loved ones over Zoom or FaceTime
Stay connected and celebrate together even if you can’t gather in person. Technology makes it easy to feel close and prevent spreading sickness at the same time.Holiday Joy—Just with a Quarantine Twist
Your traditions might look a little different this year, but staying home is the best way to keep our communities healthy and safe. With a little bit of creativity, you can find ways to fill your holiday with the same excitement and joy as every other year—just with a little quarantine twist.
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