Easter has always been my second favorite holiday—right behind Christmas. And honestly, it’s kind of the perfect sequel. You still get the amazing food, the family time, and those cherished traditions, but without the pressure of buying a million gifts, orchestrating a month of activities, or making sure the tree doesn’t look like a toddler got too ambitious with the tinsel. Easter is all the magic of a holiday, but with a deep breath of fresh, spring air.

And speaking of fresh air—to me, Easter is basically the unofficial kickoff to the season of childhood freedom. After months of being cooped up inside, buried under layers of wool and fleece, Minnesota kids are on the verge of rediscovering what it means to run wild. Easter marks the transition from cold, gray days to the promise of long, golden afternoons spent outside. It’s not just about candy-filled eggs or jelly beans (though let’s be honest, those help)—it’s about celebrating the return of light, warmth, and a childhood unbound.

Easter Gifts That Signal the Best is Yet to Come

When it comes to Easter baskets, I like to think beyond the chocolate bunnies and sugar overload. Don’t get me wrong—there will always be a place for jelly beans—but Easter can also be a chance to set the stage for all the fun to come. Here are a few ideas that help kids look forward to spring and summer:

• Outdoor Adventure Gear: Think jump ropes, sidewalk chalk, butterfly nets, or a fresh pair of sunglasses. It’s the little things that make an afternoon outside feel like an adventure.
• Books About Nature and Exploration: Picture books about gardening, insects, or outdoor scavenger hunts are a great way to get kids excited about exploring their own backyard.
• Water Play Essentials: A new swimsuit, a colorful beach towel, or even some fun water balloons hint at the sunny days ahead.
• Garden Starter Kits: Mini flower pots, packets of seeds, or a set of kid-sized gardening tools make for a fun (and patience-building) project.
• Classic Summer Toys: A frisbee, a bubble wand, or a kite—simple things that scream “freedom” after months of indoor play.

Easter, Love of Luverne Style

This is just the beginning of all things Easter here at Love of Luverne. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing everything from Easter gift guides to recipes, decor inspiration, and beloved family traditions. Whether you’re hosting a big Easter brunch, looking for unique basket ideas, or just wanting to soak up every moment of this magical, low-stress holiday, I’ve got you covered.

So, stay tuned—because just like the first tulips pushing through the soil, we’re just getting started. Here’s to Easter, to the promise of warm days ahead, and to watching childhood bloom again after a long Minnesota winter.

Need help finding the perfect Easter basket gifts for your child? Here are thing I am definitely including in Sweet Graham’s basket this year. You can always shop along with us on the Shop With Us page on our website!