British families want to escape the drudgery of lockdown by turning Easter into a second Christmas.
Online retailers have reported a surge in sales of Easter-themed products including artificial trees, rabbit-themed crackles and candles that smell like hot-cross buns.
In 2021 Easter Sunday falls on April 4 just six days after a major easing of lockdown rules.
On March 29 six people or two households are expected to be allowed to meet outdoors, making barbecues and garden parties possible.
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Senior figures in the Church of England are supportive of the Easter boom.
The Rev Beverley Mason, bishop of Warrington, said: “After this very long Covid, which has impacted the lives of all of us of every age, it’s wonderful that Easter should be the event that will bring people together to celebrate and have fun.
"Easter really lends itself to an explosion of love and joy and thankfulness for one another.
“Tinsel and baubles and gifts? I say, ‘Bring it on’ together with the resurrection cocktails, the chocolate and the sparklers.”
At Waitrose sales of Easter-themed decorations have doubled since last year.
Emily Quinn, home buyer at the supermarket, said: “We expect this to be our biggest Easter ever.”
