Another fresh puzzle has arrived. NYT’s Strands game drops a new twist for Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025. Puzzle #413 brings not just clues but a sprinkle of holiday spirit. This isn’t just a daily word game—it’s a small code to crack. This sunday brings a challenge straight from the heart of Easter.
Today's theme sets the tone. “On the hunt” points directly at today’s celebration. The puzzle unfolds like an egg hunt itself.
Strands blend word search and logic. Each grid hides a pattern. One large theme word—the spangram—runs across the board. Surrounding it, seven other words relate to the central idea. Together, they use every letter on the grid. Nothing left unused. Every inch matters.
For today, think of Easter. But not just in name. This board dives into gifts, colors, and candies found across lawns, baskets, and morning tables.
Today’s spangram stretches across the board from the fourth letter down on the left edge. The word formed is EASTERBASKET. Each letter winds across to spell it, touching nearly every corner of the game.
Now, what fills that basket? Hidden within the board are classic treats and surprises. Today’s answers are: BOOK, EGGS, TOYS, BUNNY, CANDY, PEEPS, CHOCOLATE. Each one ties into the festive feel.
None of these answers stretch the imagination. They're classic Easter symbols. But hiding them among so many letters makes this lighthearted theme into a clever search.
A puzzle like this rewards attention to detail. “EGGS” appears tucked into the upper corner. A little hop to the right, and there’s “BUNNY.” Just above that—“TOYS.” Climb over “CANDY,” then swing below for “BOOK.”
At the very bottom, “PEEPS” sits with a sugary smile. Then comes “CHOCOLATE.” A rich finish for a holiday-themed grid.
Strands works differently than other NYT word games. There’s no countdown, no failure. Just exploration. The board shakes for wrong guesses. It glows blue for correct ones. And gold for the grand spangram.
Every three non-theme words unlock a small helper. No need for frustration—every puzzle can be solved with a little patience. And each hint opens another doorway to the theme.
Today’s grid uses words like CRAB, RACK, DENT, CANE, and CHOP to open those hints. Every letter typed builds momentum. Every solved clue tightens the theme.
This particular puzzle brings warmth. It doesn't just test logic. It mirrors a cultural moment. Hidden eggs. Treats waiting in grass. A bunny that never seems to run out of chocolate. The puzzle becomes a little story in itself.
Strands make one rule clear—use every letter once. All paths lead to completion, but only the right one wins. Words twist in all directions. Up, down, sideways, diagonally. The board asks for creativity.
Today’s Easter edition shows how themes can blend into format. It’s not about finding random words. It’s about revealing meaning from the mess. Each step uncovers part of the picture. Each answer connects to something bigger.
As always, Strands stands beside other NYT puzzles like Wordle and Connections. But it holds its own rhythm. No streaks, no failure screen. Just quiet success, one letter at a time.
Today’s code has been cracked. But tomorrow promises a new mystery. Until then, the EASTERBASKET closes with its final sweet piece.