Kenyans shopping in a supermarketThe Easter season is a period where Christians get to celebrate and commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus.
It is an important event that symbolizes hope and salvation and a chance to reflect and spend quality time with your loved ones.
This year's Easter will be celebrated on April 20.
For some Kenyans, traveling sets the pace for celebrating this period as they take advantage of the holiday to visit their families and friends around the country and catching up with them.
Others view the holiday as a chance for spiritual nourishment and engage in religious pilgrimages. After all, it is a religious affair.
Despite one’s perception and intentions for this special time, one thing is clear.
Costs associated with travel, budget-friendly meals, and social, religious or even cultural activities can pile up, which necessitates one to formulate a plan to cater for a variety of expenses that may be on your way.
The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune to fulfill your wants and needs during this sacred time.
Tracy, a content creator, says that she geared up for her trip to her grandparents in the upcountry.
"I have already booked my bus and train ticket early enough to avoid the extra costs they would otherwise cough up during the last-minute Easter price hikes," she says.
The same goes for Mike, who plans to escape the hustle and bustle of work in Nairobi and resort to relaxation at Freedom Base Camp in Athi River with his friends.
He suggests that if they raised enough money with his friends, they would consider a tour to the Kenyan coast.
"We plan to host a potluck meal where each friend involved brings a dish each as we ensure the edibles are shared and in the long run, reduce the financial burden that would have been endured if a single person covered the entire cost," he says.
"It also presents a good way for families to bond and catch up."
Tracy says that earlier booking is essential.
"For me, I plan to use cost-effective options such as the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to take me to Athi River. From there I will take a public bus to Kitui to see my parents," she says.
Easter, being primarily a Christian holiday, sees many churches countrywide hold special services, prayers, and concerts at no cost, which makes it easier for accessibility.
For those looking for spiritual growth, they can take advantage of these events at local areas without the need to have otherwise paid for them, be it through travel expenses to the church or concert fees.
For Tracy, organizing cost-friendly and nutritious home-cooked meals such as bone soup, eggs, omena, teller milk, bananas, avocados, soybeans, chicken wings, chapati, or liver can help her save costs on what would be spent on expensive restaurants.
Mike, on his side, intends to take advantage of available food and drink discounts during the period.
"I plan to do bulk buying of edible products. I will first compare prices with companies and vendors that offer Easter sales promotions and shop in open-air markets to help me save money," he says.
"Alternately, I can set up a tent with my friends and have a camping experience in Freedom Base, where we can spend time outdoors."
He recommends taking a trip to recreational parks such as Uhuru Park and the Nairobi Arboretum, public coastal beaches, or taking hikes and nature walks in places like Ngong Hills, Mount Longonot in Naivasha, or Karura Forest, which offer a much-needed cheaper option of relaxation.
"Alternatively, Kenyans can decide to explore historical sites and museums at discounted prices or free entry, taking the advantage to explore fascinating local heritage sites or cultural landmarks with family and friends," he says.
For Brian, who is a businessman, he admits he loves entertainment, adding that he plans to enjoy free or low-cost entertainment, adding that it would be a cheaper way to spend the season.
"I will watch and listen to Easter-themed movies and music at home and if possible, attend free church-organised concerts, festivals, or drama performances," he said.
"This is better and more affordable to me than corporation-organised concerts and movie theaters which tend to be costly."
Easter is about love and compassion, which can be expressed by participating in community services.
For Tracy, she recommends celebrating the season by volunteering in a children’s home or donating clothes to the needy.
"Such activities may offer great alternatives instead of spending loads of money for luxury," she says.
One doesn’t need to break a bank to enjoy a meaningful Easter holiday. Whether attending free church events, taking advantage of those rare sales promotions, spending quality time at home or upcountry, or visiting your favorite destination, you can celebrate the season in a memorable way without straining your resources.
The key is to plan ahead, embrace simplicity, and focus on
what makes Easter a special occasion for you.
