Easter is a wonderful time for gathering with loved ones and enjoying a delicious meal together. Whether you’re hosting or attending an Easter dinner, here are some etiquette tips to make sure you have a delightful and stress-free celebration:
Dress to impress:
It’s good manners to mirror the effort the host has put into such a special occasion by dressing to impress! For Easter dinner, it’s typically appropriate to dress in smart casual attire. Think along the lines of sundresses, slacks with a nice blouse, or collared shirts for men. Avoid overly casual clothing like t-shirts and shorts unless specifically indicated by the host.
To Bring or Not to Bring a Dish:
If you’ve been invited to someone’s home for Easter dinner, it’s always courteous to ask the host if they would like you to bring a dish. If they say yes, they may assign you one, or if not, consider suggesting what you could bring, for example, a side dish or dessert to contribute to the meal. However, if the host insists that they have everything covered, graciously accept and still bring a host gift (click here to read about host gift etiquette) and offer to help with other tasks instead.
Timing of the Dinner:
Easter dinner is traditionally served in the early to mid-afternoon, typically around 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. This timing allows guests to enjoy a hearty meal without feeling too rushed, leaving plenty of time for Easter egg hunts, family activities, or evening relaxation. As a guest, make sure to arrive on time or slightly early to show respect for the host’s efforts in preparing the meal.
Who to Invite:
When hosting an Easter dinner, consider inviting close family members, friends, and perhaps a few special guests. Easter is a time for joy and celebration, so surround yourself with people who bring positivity and warmth to the occasion. However, it’s also important to be mindful of space limitations and your capacity to accommodate guests comfortably.
Easter dinner is a time-honored tradition that brings people together in celebration and fellowship. By following these etiquette guidelines for dress code, bringing dishes, timing, and guest list, you can make sure that your Easter gathering is a wonderful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Happy Easter!