How to turn Easter holiday into a money making opportunity
By David Nthua, April 3, 2026Easter Holiday is here with us and to many Kenyans, it means making merry, traveling to hidden gems to adventure and to others, travelling to the rural areas to connect with family and friends.
But beyond the fun, the Easter holiday is also one of the easiest times to make extra money because people are outside, travelling, eating and spending.
If you plan well, you can make good money in just a few days without starting a big business.
Sell cold drinks and ice cream
During Easter, many families go for picnics, road trips, parks and outdoor events.
The weather is usually hot and people are always looking for cold drinks, ice cream and snacks.
You can buy a cooler box, stock sodas, water, juice and ice cream, then sell them in picnic areas, parks, roadside stops or near tourist sites.
The profit per bottle may look small, but volume is usually high during holidays.
Charge phones at picnic sites
This is one of the simplest businesses many people ignore. When people travel or go for picnics, their phone batteries run out because of photos, videos and internet use.

If you have a power bank or a small extension cable connected to a shop or generator, you can charge phones at a small fee.
Even charging a small amount per phone can add up to good money in one day, especially in busy picnic areas.
Direct parking or traffic at busy areas
During holidays, places like picnic sites, churches, beaches, hotels and event grounds become very busy.
Many drivers struggle to find parking or directions.
If you get permission from a property owner, event organiser or local shop, you can help direct cars to parking spaces and charge a small parking or guidance fee.
Many drivers are willing to pay for convenience during busy holidays.
Sell roasted maize, sausages or snacks
Food always sells during holidays. Simple foods like roasted maize, smokies, sausages, boiled eggs, crisps and peanuts sell very fast in crowded places.
This business does not require a lot of capital and can be done near bus stages, picnic areas, roadside stops or markets where travellers pass.

Offer car washing in rural areas
During Easter, many people travel upcountry with dusty roads and muddy routes. When they arrive home, their cars are dirty.
If you live in rural areas, you can start a temporary car wash during Easter weekend.
Even simple washing with buckets and soap can attract many customers because people want clean cars for church and family visits.
House sitting and pet sitting
Some families travel during Easter and leave their houses or pets behind. You can offer to watch the house, water plants, feed pets or clean the compound for a small fee.
This is common in estates and towns where many people travel during long holidays.
Why holidays are good for small businesses
Holidays like Easter increase movement, spending and outdoor activities.
Whenever people move in large numbers, small business opportunities increase.
The secret is simple. Go where people are. Sell what people need immediately. Charge small amounts but serve many people.
Many successful small businesses actually started as holiday side hustles during busy seasons like Easter, Christmas and school holidays.