Do you already have a list of things to do this Holy Week?

Going out?

Sleeping in?

Catching up on Netflix?

Or maybe all of the above?

Whatever the plan, Holy Week is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and be present.

Most Filipinos associate Semana Santa with traditions like Ash Wednesday, penance, palm branches, and abstaining from meat. These are common practices in the Philippines.

But is following them a requirement?

Not at all.

Holy Week is meant to be a time of remembrance and celebration.

It marks the moment when Jesus saved the world by dying on the cross and rising again after three days. That victory is something worth rejoicing in!

To celebrate Holy Week, here are five activities to enjoy your time alone or with loved ones.

Holy Week activity #1: Prepare a feast for the family

The Last Supper is one of the most well-known stories from the Bible. It was the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion.

Of course, this isn’t about having a “last meal” with family! Instead, why not prepare a special feast to enjoy together?

Busy schedules often make it difficult to sit down for a meal with loved ones. Holy Week is a great opportunity to slow down and create meaningful moments around the table.

Holy Week activity #2: Hunt Easter Eggs

Have you ever tried an Easter egg hunt? It’s a fun tradition, especially on Easter Sunday. The game involves hiding real or plastic eggs (often filled with small surprises) and letting participants search for them. The best part? The prizes are up to the organizer—whether it’s chocolate, cash, or something as extravagant as a house and lot.

Just kidding!

But why eggs?

According to History.com, “From a Christian perspective, Easter eggs symbolize Jesus’ emergence from the tomb and resurrection.”

Activity #3: Volunteer and help others

Many groups take this time to organize outreach programs, such as feeding initiatives, fundraisers, free medical checkups, community cleanups, and relief efforts.

There are plenty of ways to give back. This is a meaningful time to invest in something where the reward comes from the Lord.

Here are some verses about generosity and giving:

• “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NLT)
• “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25, NKJV)
• “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Luke 6:38, CEV)

Activity #4: Clear your mind by cleaning your space

Ever been told to “Marie Kondo” your stuff? The phrase refers to decluttering and simplifying a space, inspired by Marie Kondo, a well-known organizing expert.

She believes that a tidy, well-organized space leads to a more peaceful environment. If something no longer sparks joy or serves a purpose, it’s best to let it go.

Holy Week is a great time to clear the mind, and one way to do that is by tidying up.

With the long weekend ahead, why not take advantage of it?

Holding onto candy wrappers from an ex or dried flowers from a past relationship? Maybe it’s time to throw them out—especially if they no longer bring joy.

Activity #5: Watch Tanikala presents “Preso” with loved ones

Here’s some exciting news! CBN Asia’s top-rated made-for-TV series, Tanikala, is back with another life-changing film! Tanikala presents Preso premieres on Good Friday, April 18, at 5:30 PM on GMA.

The film brings to life the true story of Wendell Tolibas—a man who lost himself to addiction and poor choices but eventually found redemption through faith.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss it!