The Easter Basket Tradition: Where It Comes From and What to Put Inside

Easter baskets have become a beloved part of springtime celebrations for many families—but where did the tradition begin, and how can we make it meaningful today?

At Timeless Toys, we’re all about thoughtful gifting, and Easter is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate the season without overdoing the sugar. Here’s a look at the origins of the Easter basket tradition, plus some joyful, chocolate-free ideas for what to include.

Where Did Easter Baskets Come From?

The idea of giving baskets at Easter goes back centuries. In pre-Christian times, baskets filled with food and offerings were part of spring festivals celebrating new life and fertility. Later, in Christian tradition, people would fill baskets with food to be blessed at church, symbolising abundance, renewal and gratitude.

As the tradition has evolved, baskets have became a fun way to surprise children with small gifts from the Easter Bunny. For some, a basket is filled with treats to mark the end of Lent, when sweets and rich foods have been avoided. For others, Easter baskets are less about religious ritual and more about celebrating spring and new beginnings, making memories, and giving children a little seasonal magic.

Modern Easter Baskets: A Chance for Thoughtful Gifting:

While chocolate eggs and sweets are still popular, more families are looking for alternatives to reduce the sugar overload, create memories and mark the changing seasons.

Here are some meaningful, low-sugar Easter basket ideas that are ideal for Easter gifts.

1. A Springtime Storybook

Springtime stories, Easter-themed picture books, or nature based stories celebrate the joy that the Spring season brings and connect with nature.

2. A Soft Toy

A cuddly lamb, bunny, or chick can be a lovely keepsake—a forever keepsake of Easter. These are soft, comforting, and tie in with the themes of nature and new life.

3. On-The-Go Craft Kits and Puzzles

Perfect for rainy April days or for on-the-go. All in one sets and pocket crafts and puzzles are ideal as gifts for this time of year when there are plans for travel, camping and eating out. Spring-themed crafts like playdough, sticker sets, pocket games, colouring and magnetic puzzles are all brilliant options.

4. Outdoor Play

Make the most of the spring sunshine and outdoor play with toys that celebrate the outdoors and sunshine, like Scrunch buckets and sand moulds, mud kitchen play items, sensory play items, water and sand play items, bug viewers and periscopes, beach and camping items, perfect for holidays and day trips ahead and nature trail walks.

5. Spring Clean the Wardrobe

Spring always seems to trigger a growth spurt in children and you discover they've outgrown last years summer clothes. This is the perfect opportunity to include some spring and summer essentials for their wardrobe, whether that is new swimwear or a new bright and fun t-shirt.

6. Nature Finds or Treasures

A magnifying glass, pressed flower set, Nature Fact Cards and nature based games - activities that connect children to the world around them. These celebrate the natural world and the joy of spring exploration.

7. A Personal Note from the Easter Bunny

Sometimes, it’s the simple things—a little note tucked into the basket adds charm and wonder to the tradition.

Why It Still Matters Today

The Easter basket holds onto its charm for today's families. It’s not about excess—it’s about making memories, welcoming spring and outdoor play and enjoying the wonder of nature all around us.

Thoughtful Traditions for Modern Families

Whether you're building a basket for your own children, a godchild, or a little loved one in your life, an Easter basket doesn’t have to be filled with chocolate to feel special. It can be simple, meaningful, and aligned with the things you care about—connection, creativity, nature, and the activities you have planned as a family ahead.

Looking for inspiration?

We’ve got a lovely range of chocolate-free Easter treats in-store—everything from eco-friendly crafts and soft toys to books and nature kits.

Pop by and let us help you build a basket full of joy.

Our favourite Easter Treats

Keepsake Soft Toys