Easter egg hunts are one of the sweetest springtime traditions—watching little ones dash around the yard, baskets in hand, faces beaming with excitement as they search for hidden treasures. But if you’ve been to the grocery store lately, you might’ve noticed real eggs are getting harder to find—and when you do find them, they’re more expensive than ever.

So what’s a fun-loving grandma, mom, aunt, or neighbor to do when real eggs are off the table?

Get creative, of course!

There are plenty of delightful, affordable, and just plain fun alternatives that keep the spirit of the Easter egg hunt alive—without needing a single real egg. Whether you’re planning a neighborhood hunt, a family backyard game, or a cozy indoor adventure, here are some egg-cellent ideas to try this year.

Bonus: Click here for your chance to claim a grocery gift card in case you really want some real eggs.

Why Real Eggs Are Taking a Back Seat This Year

Let’s face it—real eggs just aren’t as practical as they used to be. Prices are up, and in some places, shelves are empty. And for families with little ones, food allergies or dietary preferences might already make real eggs a no-go.

Plus, there’s the clean-up. Cracked shells, colorful messes on the counter, and squished yolks on the lawn… not exactly the kind of Easter memory we want!

But don’t worry—you can still host a magical egg hunt without them.

The Tried-and-True: Plastic Eggs Still Reign

Plastic eggs have been a staple in Easter baskets for years, and they’re more versatile than ever. You can find big bags at dollar stores, party supply shops, or online in bulk (some even come pre-filled!).

Here are a few fun traditional ideas for what to put inside – besides candy:

• Coins or dollar bills – especially for older kids
• Small toys, hair accessories, or erasers
• Stickers and temporary tattoos
• Mini notes with jokes or sweet messages
  

Want to level up the fun? Toss in a few “golden eggs” with a special surprise inside like a gift card or extra-big treat.

Think Outside the Shell: Creative Easter “Egg” Alternatives

Ready to mix things up? These playful ideas give the traditional egg hunt a fresh new twist:

Craft Eggs

Pick up wooden, ceramic, or foam eggs at the craft store and let the kids decorate them before the hunt. It turns into a double activity—craft time and egg hunt!

Play-Doh Eggs

You can buy plastic eggs filled with mini tubs of Play-Doh, use these Play-Doh eggs, or make your own by filling plastic eggs with homemade dough. Kids can open them up and get sculpting after the hunt.

Chalk Eggs

Sidewalk chalk in egg shapes? Yes, please! These colorful cuties are perfect for springtime fun and make great non-candy surprises.

Puzzle Piece Eggs

Place one piece of a puzzle in each egg and have the kids put it together after the hunt. It’s a great team activity that keeps the fun going longer.

Golden Egg Challenge

Hide one special egg with a “big” prize—maybe a stuffed animal, a $5 bill, or a movie night coupon. It adds a little extra excitement and keeps the older kids engaged too.

Egg Coupons

Write family rewards on little slips of paper and tuck them into eggs. Ideas include:

• “Stay up 30 minutes later”
• “Pick the next movie night”
• “Skip one chore”
• “Extra dessert”
  

It’s a sweet way to personalize the fun and encourage family time long after Easter is over.

DIY & Eco-Friendly Ideas for a Greener Easter

If you’re trying to cut down on plastic or waste, there are plenty of reusable options that are just as festive:

Fabric Eggs

Sew (or buy) soft fabric eggs that you can reuse every year. Fill them with small toys or treats and they’ll become part of your family’s Easter tradition.

Mini Boxes or Jars

Get crafty with small decorated boxes, recycled jars, or even little cloth pouches. They’re cute, reusable, and just the right size for a surprise.

Scavenger Hunt Twist

Instead of hunting for eggs, create a treasure hunt! Write clues that lead kids from one hiding spot to the next, ending in a final basket of goodies. It’s fun for all ages and makes for great memories.

Wrapping It All Up

At the end of the day, it’s not about what the eggs are made of—it’s about the giggles, the memories, and the joy of celebrating together. Whether you’re filling chalk eggs or planning a puzzle-piece scavenger hunt, what really matters is the magic of the moment.

So don’t worry if real eggs are off the table this year. With a little imagination and a whole lot of heart, your Easter can still be just as bright, playful, and meaningful.

Happy egg-hunting, friends!

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