March came in like a lion and left like a lamb. Now it’s April’s turn to shine as spring really starts to rev up. The month kicks off with Easter weekend and spring break. What’s more, as the days continue to get longer and warmer, summer sports are back on the menu.

To help you make the most of the first full month of spring, we’ve made a list of a few family-friendly activities to enjoy at home or outdoors!

Enjoy a Chocolate-Filled Easter

Easter is going to look a little different again this year. However, you can always count on enjoying your fair share of Easter chocolates and sweets.

Whether you like dairy-free chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate or another delicious variety—we’re willing to bet there’s a recipe out there to suit your tastes.

This year, we dare you to test out your baking skills and try your hand at a new recipe. However, that doesn’t mean you have to forgo the classic store-bought chocolate eggs and Easter bunnies!

Chocolate Mousse

Chocolate mousse is the ultimate indulgent treat to enjoy while nestled around a backyard bonfire or curled up on the couch watching a movie.

This Canadian Living recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Chocolate Butter

Chocolate can be served at just about any meal and breakfast is no exception! This year, why not try making Ricardo’s chocolate butter to accompany your pared-down Easter brunch? It’s sure to satisfy even the most ferocious sweet tooth!

Chocolate Bundt Cake

Cakes aren’t just for birthdays, they’re great for any celebration! Put on your apron and get out your baking utensils because this chocolate Bundt cake is calling your name.

Follow this recipe on Food Network’s website to bake a delicious cake that will blow you away!

Plan an Unforgettable Easter Egg Hunt

If you have young children or simply want to enjoy a festive game with your roommates, a classic Easter egg hunt is a must! If you’re organizing the event, we suggest drawing a map of where you hid the chocolates. That way, you can easily collect any treats that weren’t found.

Don’t forget to hand out a prize to the person who collects the most eggs—a chocolatey reward is a must!

Scout Out Some New Running Trails

It’s out with the winter layers and in with shorts and t-shirts. As the weather warms up, you can get back to enjoying your runs with the sun on your face and the wind in your hair! 

If you’re an avid runner, it may be time to change up your regular running route for several different reasons:

• The start of spring means that you can now explore the once snow-covered paths, sidewalks and streets in your neighbourhood
• The busy streets and major thoroughfares where you ran during the winter are getting busier and more crowded
• It’s fun to keep things fresh and explore new running routes

Whatever the reason, changing up your usual routine is a good way to keep things interesting. Why not challenge yourself to try something new?

Spring Cleaning Has Arrived

April is often synonymous with spring cleaning, although some people wait until May to get started.

As we all know, spring can get mucky as the snow starts to melt. That said, if you don’t want to get stuck doing a time-consuming deep clean, we suggest periodically cleaning your vehicle throughout the month to keep things manageable.

Wipe Away Winter’s Grime

The leftover road salt and sand on the roads are unavoidable during the first few months of the year. As such, the dirt and grime will inevitably get tracked into your home and vehicle.

A great way to keep your vehicle clean is to vacuum it regularly. Make sure you get into the cracks between the seats and under the gas and brake pedals. It’s also a good idea to shake out your floor mats every now and again to help keep the mess to a minimum.

If salt gets inside your vehicle and stains the upholstery, simply give the area a good scrub with a household cleaner. When you think it’s time, switch out your winter floor mats for summer ones. If you don’t have two sets, give each mat a deep clean to ensure your vehicle is ready for warmer days.

Make Your Vehicle Shine Like Never Before

If you want your vehicle to sparkle and shine this April, take it to your favourite car wash for a thorough clean. The limescale and dirt build up on the underside of your vehicle are no match for the powerful jets and detergents at Ultramar’s Ultrawash car wash. Your vehicle is sure to come out cleaner than ever!

Save Money While Filling up Your Tank

Have you heard about the JOURNIE Rewards app? Available now on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, it allows you to get JOURNIE points for fuel discounts and your choice of rewards. It’s free and easy to install on your smartphone.