Americans Reconsidering Easter Egg Hunts Amid Soaring Prices

Source: YouTube

Hosting an Easter egg hunt might break the bank this year. In March 2025, egg prices in the U.S. hit a record high of $6.23 per dozen, a jump of nearly 60% from last year’s $3.87 average. Despite no major bird flu outbreaks and falling wholesale prices, the cost of the Easter egg remains steep for American consumers. Experts say the skyrocketing price comes down to demand. Easter egg hunts and festive meals have pushed egg consumption higher just as retailers struggle to adjust prices following early-year supply issues.

Demand and Delayed Price Drops Keep Regular and Easter Egg Costs Elevated

While wholesale egg prices began dropping in mid-March, that relief has yet to reach grocery shelves. Retailers typically stock up weeks in advance, meaning most eggs on store shelves were purchased when costs were much higher.

University of Arkansas food economist Jada Thompson explained that lower wholesale prices will take time to filter through the supply chain.

Adding pressure is the seasonal demand for the Easter egg — a staple of many American holiday celebrations. From dyeing eggs to organizing hunts, families traditionally buy more eggs in April than any other time of the year.

The Easter Egg Tradition in America

The Easter egg is more than just a kids’ activity, it is deeply woven into American culture. The most famous Easter egg hunt in the U.S. happens at the White House during the annual Easter Egg Roll. This event, hosted on the South Lawn, dates back to 1878 during President Rutherford B. Hayes’ administration. Every year, children gather to roll Easter eggs across the lawn in a symbol of renewal and celebration.

Despite record-high egg prices, the White House announced it would not switch to plastic eggs this year. More than 30,000 real eggs are expected to be used during the event, sparking debate about whether such traditions should adapt in the face of inflation.

Some online petitions are even calling for the government to use alternatives, arguing that the rising price of the Easter egg makes the tradition feel out of touch with struggling families.

Are Tariffs Playing a Role in Egg Prices?

While the current surge is mostly driven by demand, new trade policies could make future price drops harder. President Trump implemented a 10% tariff on many trading partners in early April, sparking concerns among economists that grocery prices could rise across multiple categories.

Although eggs have largely avoided the steepest tariffs so far, uncertainty remains. Importers are cautious, and supply chains are still adjusting. Some eggs have been imported from Europe to ease U.S. shortages, but those efforts may not be enough if tariffs expand. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice is investigating potential price-fixing by egg producers like Cal-Maine, which controls 20% of the market. If proven, regulatory action could force producers to lower prices.

What Could Help Bring Down the Price of the Easter Egg?

Consumers may see relief in the weeks after Easter as demand eases and lower wholesale prices catch up with retailers.

In the meantime, many families are choosing to skip the traditional Easter egg hunt altogether. Some are switching to plastic or wooden eggs, while others are embracing egg-free holiday crafts to avoid the high costs.

Experts say the long-term outlook depends on global trade developments, domestic production recovery, and the outcome of the DOJ’s investigation into egg pricing. Until then, consumers should expect to pay premium prices for their Easter egg traditions.

Do you think skipping the Easter egg hunt is a smart choice this year given record egg prices?

 Loading ...