Celebrating Easter, Passover, and the Spirit of Togetherness on Long Island

As spring begins to bloom across Long Island, so do the traditions that bring our diverse communities together. This season of renewal is marked by two deeply meaningful holidays—Easter and Passover—each rich in history, symbolism, and celebration. No matter what you observe, this time of year is a beautiful reminder of faith, family, and fresh starts.

Here are four joyful ways Long Islanders come together to honor the season:

1. Sharing the Table
Whether it’s matzo ball soup at a Passover Seder or glazed ham and hot cross buns on Easter Sunday, food brings us together. Many families prepare cherished recipes passed down through generations, while others welcome friends from different faiths to break bread and learn about each other’s traditions. Local bakeries and delis also step up, offering everything from chocolate-covered matzah to bunny-shaped cookies.

2. Storytelling and Symbolism
Passover invites us to retell the story of liberation through the Haggadah, while Easter reflects on themes of sacrifice and resurrection. These stories aren’t just religious, they’re reminders of hope, perseverance, and new beginnings. Many houses of worship across Long Island hold interfaith services or educational events to help us understand one another more deeply.

3. Community Events
From vibrant egg hunts in local parks to Passover festivals and children’s crafts, Long Island offers a wide range of family-friendly events. Town centers and libraries often host multicultural spring celebrations that welcome everyone to participate in seasonal fun. It’s a wonderful opportunity to teach younger generations the values of community and compassion.

Easter Celebrations

Easter Sunday Brunch with the Easter Bunny at East Wind Long Island

• Date: Sunday, April 20, 2025 

• Time: Seatings at 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM 

• Location: East Wind Long Island, 5720 NY-25A, Wading River, NY 

• Details: Enjoy a full gourmet buffet, a kids’ station, and a cash bar in the Grand Ballroom. The Easter Bunny will be available for photos. 

• Pricing: Adults $69.95 + tax; Children (3-10) $29.95 + tax; Infants under 2 are free (please bring your own highchair or booster). 

• Reservations: Reserve Online 

      Easter Sunday Brunch or Dinner at The Coral House 

• Date: Sunday, April 20, 2025 

• Time: Brunch: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Dinner: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM 

• Location: The Coral House, 70 Milburn Avenue, Baldwin, NY 

• Details: Celebrate Easter with a delicious buffet and fun activities for the whole family. An Easter Egg Hunt will be held at 2:15 PM for children 5 and under, and at 2:30 PM for ages 6 and up. 

• Reservations: Call (516) 223-6500 to reserve your spot. 

Passover Celebrations 

        Seventh Night Community Seder at North Shore Synagogue 

• Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025 

• Time: 5:30 PM 

• Location: North Shore Synagogue, 83 Muttontown Eastwoods Road, Syosset, NY 

• Details: Join Rabbi Jaimee Shalhevet and Cantor Steven Hevenstone for a meaningful and interactive seder, featuring a traditional Passover meal catered by Ben’s, dessert, and more. 

• Pricing: Members: $50; Non-members: $60; Children (ages 2-10): $40 

• Registration: Register Here 

 Passover Dinner at Woodbury Jewish Center

• Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025 

• Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM 

• Location: Woodbury Jewish Center, 200 South Woods Road, Woodbury, NY 

• Details: Celebrate Passover with a communal dinner. Additional events include a Women’s Shabbat on April 19 and a Yom Hashoah Commemoration on April 23. 

• Registration: More Information  

 Acts of Kindness

4. In the spirit of giving, many use this season to help others. It could be delivering holiday meals, volunteering at local shelters, or donating to a food drive. After all, both holidays emphasize gratitude, humility, and caring for those in need—values that shine even brighter when shared.

 This spring, whether you’re hunting for eggs, hiding the afikoman, or simply soaking up the sunshine with loved ones, may your heart be full and your spirit renewed. Long Island has a way of wrapping its arms around tradition while embracing the beauty of diversity—and that’s worth celebrating. No matter how you celebrate, this season reminds us that renewal begins in the heart and blossoms through connection. Wishing all my readers peace, joy, and meaningful moments this spring—may your celebrations, like our Long Island community, be full of warmth and love.