When high school exchange students picture their year in the U.S., they often dream of trick-or-treating, Thanksgiving feasts, and Christmas stockings. But one holiday that tends to sneak up and totally surprise them? Easter.
From pastel eggs to sunrise services and chocolate bunnies, Easter in the U.S. is a unique blend of the sacred and the silly—and it often becomes an unexpected favorite among exchange students. Let’s take a look at what makes Easter in America so special, and how host families are helping students experience it all for the first time.
Dying Easter Eggs: A Messy, Colorful Tradition
It’s not truly Easter in the U.S. without a kitchen table covered in cups of dye, cracked eggshells, and a whole lot of paper towels. For many exchange students, dying Easter eggs is a brand-new (and sometimes delightfully messy) tradition.
“I had never done anything like it before,” said Paula from Spain. “We used little cups with tablets that changed the color of the water, and then we made designs with stickers and wax crayons. I made one with my country’s flag!”
For host families, this is such a simple way to bring students into the fun. Whether you go all out with intricate designs or keep it low-key with just the basics, it’s about being together, laughing at your weird-looking eggs, and making memories.
A Picture with the Easter Bunny
Yes, it’s a thing—and it never fails to amuse international students. The idea of a giant bunny posing for photos with kids (and sometimes slightly embarrassed teens) is pure Americana.
“My host sister made me take a picture with the Easter Bunny at the mall,” said Minda from Thailand. “I didn’t know if I should laugh or run away. But now it’s one of my favorite pictures from the whole year!”
While some students find the whole concept a little strange, most jump in with good humor—and end up with a photo that’ll live forever in their yearbook or host family fridge.
Easter Baskets: Like Christmas in April
One of the most surprising Easter traditions for many exchange students is the Easter basket. In the U.S., it’s not uncommon for kids—and yes, teens too—to wake up Easter morning to a basket filled with treats, small gifts, or even gift cards.
“I thought Easter was only about going to church,” said Jisoo from South Korea. “But I woke up and had a basket with candy eggs, a bracelet, and a chocolate bunny. I felt so loved!”
Some host families go all-out, while others keep it sweet and simple. Either way, students often describe it as a thoughtful gesture that makes them feel truly included in the family’s traditions.
Easter Candy and Treats
Let’s talk sugar. The U.S. knows how to do holiday candy, and Easter is no exception. Peeps, Cadbury eggs, jelly beans, chocolate bunnies—there’s no shortage of seasonal sweets.
“My host mom introduced me to Reese’s eggs,” said Alvaro from Mexico. “I think I ate six in one day. I regret nothing.”
Many students end up bringing home their favorite treats to share with family and friends—or at least dream of them once they’ve gone back home.
Church Services: Reflecting and Celebrating
For host families who attend church, Easter often begins long before the chocolate eggs make an appearance. Many students get to experience a range of services they may not have known about, including Good Friday reflections, Saturday night vigils, and sunrise services on Easter morning.
“My host family invited me to a sunrise service,” shared Anna from Sweden. “We brought blankets and hot chocolate. Watching the sun rise while people sang songs was so peaceful. I’ll never forget it.”
Whether students share the same faith or are simply there to observe, these moments offer a deeper understanding of the meaning behind Easter and an opportunity to reflect on their exchange year so far.
The Classic Easter Egg Hunt
You can’t talk about Easter in the U.S. without mentioning the egg hunt. From neighborhood parks to your own backyard, these hunts are everywhere—and they’re not just for toddlers.
“My host family did an egg hunt with cousins of all ages,” said Theo from France. “Some of the eggs had candy, but others had money! I think I got more excited than the little kids.”
These hunts are fun, chaotic, and full of photo ops. They’re also a great chance for students to bond with younger host siblings or extended family members.
Easter Brunch: A Table Full of Goodness
Brunch might not be an official Easter requirement, but it sure feels like one. Whether it’s waffles, fruit salad, deviled eggs, or cinnamon rolls, many host families celebrate the holiday with a festive mid-morning meal.
“My host mom made everything from scratch,” said Minji from South Korea. “She even made homemade cinnamon rolls. It was the best meal I’ve had in America!”
Some families invite friends over, while others keep it small and cozy. Either way, Easter brunch is a lovely, low-pressure way to spend time together and enjoy the flavors of spring.
Dinner with the Family and Friends
Later in the day, Easter often continues with a more traditional dinner—sometimes featuring ham, lamb, or regional favorites. For many students, this is a special, big American family gathering.
“My host grandparents came over, and there were cousins, aunts, and uncles,” said Yasmina from Columbia. “Everyone brought something to eat, and we sat at a really long table. It felt like a movie.”
These larger gatherings give students a chance to see how extended families come together in the U.S., often with laughter, storytelling, and (let’s be honest) second helpings.
Easter: A Hidden Gem of the Exchange Year
While Easter may not get the same buildup as Christmas or summer holidays, it often ends up being a meaningful and joyful experience for exchange students. It’s a time when families slow down, celebrate life, and welcome spring—and their student—wholeheartedly.
If you’re a host family, don’t underestimate the impact of inviting your student into your Easter traditions, no matter how simple or silly they may seem. And if you’re considering hosting, know that holidays like this are where real connection happens—over dyed eggs, sunrise skies, and a whole lot of jelly beans.
