Easter Sunday, Columbine anniversary, Weed Day: 5 things you need to know this weekend
Christians celebrate Easter as Passover continues
It's a holy weekend for major religions across the globe. Christians celebrate Easter on Sunday, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. For Jews, Passover continues and marks the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The holidays include traditions that have crossed into the secular world (like the Easter egg), and many businesses will be closed. We've tracked which ones will be open Sunday (like Walmart, Whole Foods and Sears). It's a similar story for restaurants, but these national chains will be open. Staying in? We've gathered a list of shows and movies to binge watch.
20 years later, Columbine survivors still struggle with 'new normal'
Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting, and survivors are still processing the shocking tragedy that left 13 dead and 21 others wounded at the hands of two teenage gunmen at a high school in suburban Colorado. Former students like Sean Graves, who was 15 when he was shot six times by his two classmates, struggle with the physical and mental wounds they suffered. "I'm in the history books," Graves said. "I didn't choose the cards we were dealt. We just have to play them." The Associated Press notes the community will mark the anniversary with community service projects and a ceremony remembering and honoring the victims. The events in and around the community surrounding Columbine end a three-day slate of somber ceremonies.
'High' priority deals for 4/20
Saturday is 4/20, aka Weed Day or Pot Day, and that means specials for cannabis fans across the country, regardless of whether they can legally buy pot in their state or not. This year, more major restaurant chains are getting in the holiday mood, including Pizza Hut and Boston Market. Carl’s Jr. says it is testing a CBD burger at one Denver location, only on Saturday. Also, thanks to a partnership between a cannabis dispensary and Ben & Jerry's, some lucky California residents will be able to get a free pint Half Baked ice cream. Check out our full list of deals that will help you save some green this weekend.
Potential series closers for NBA playoffs
The second weekend of the NBA playoffs is here. Eight games are on tap for Saturday and Sunday, and while a handful of series have yet to see much drama (Milwaukee-Detroit, Houston-Utah, Boston-Indiana), there’s sure to be some must-see action. Denver-San Antonio features the breakout star of the postseason; Portland-Oklahoma City features an ex-MVP who has struggled mightily in the playoffs lately; Golden State-Los Angeles has been entertaining from the get-go; and Philadelphia-Brooklyn has upset potential, especially if Joel Embiid doesn’t get healthy. The action tips off at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday.
National parks are free
If you've been meaning to go visit your nearby national park or monument but have been wary of the cost, now's your chance: Every National Park Service site will be free on Saturday. The date marks the first day of the annual National Park Week, celebrated every April. Visitors are encouraged to share their park experiences across social media, with different hashtags assigned to different days. Those who share #FindYourPark on Twitter will see a special ranger emoji attached to the hashtag.
