Creative Alternatives to Easter Egg Dyeing Amid Supply Shortages

ORLANDO, Fla. — As Easter approaches on Sunday, April 20, 2025, many families are searching for alternatives to traditional egg dyeing due to an ongoing egg shortage caused by a bird flu outbreak and panic buying. Retail egg prices surged by over 8% in December 2024, prompting many to seek out different ways to celebrate the holiday.

With the arrival of Ash Wednesday on March 5, 2025, and the beginning of Lent, the push for innovative Easter crafts becomes urgent. Given the rising cost of eggs, it’s a good time to explore creative, cost-effective options for decoration that stray from the usual practice of dyeing eggs.

According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, Easter is a “movable feast” that does not fall on the same date every year, making it a unique occasion to embrace new traditions. The Eastern Orthodox Church observes Easter on a different calendar, which can also affect dates this year.

“Easter can be observed between April 4 and May 8 in the Eastern Orthodox Church,” the almanac notes. “In the Gregorian calendar, it always falls on a Sunday between March 22 and April 25.” With such variance, families are encouraged to adapt their celebrations to fit the current context.

To reimagine Easter celebrations without the traditional dyeing process, here are five budget-friendly alternatives:

1. **Decorate Fake Eggs**: Use foam, clay, wood, or plastic eggs and personalize them with paint, sequins, stickers, gems, or fabric. This option allows for endless creativity without the worry of egg prices.

2. **Create Easter Wreaths**: Crafting festive wreaths can bring a welcoming touch to your home. Use materials like flowers, ribbons, and seasonal decorations to create a unique display.

3. **Make Garlands**: String together colored paper, felt, or faux flowers to create cheerful garlands that can be hung throughout the home.

4. **Design DIY Decorations**: Engage the family in crafts such as Easter baskets or centerpieces using common household items, making it a fun group activity.

5. **Participate in Community Events**: Various local events may offer egg hunts or craft activities. These can be enriching experiences that promote community engagement during the season.

While these alternatives may lack the traditional egg-dyeing experience, they offer a chance to create lasting memories and beautify homes without stretching budgets. For those still interested in eggs, resources like Pinterest and Etsy provide expansive lists of Easter crafts that can include the use of real eggs where necessary.