Easter Sunday: The Day of Egg Hunts, Bunnies, and Peeps

Easter Sunday is a time to celebrate spring, rebirth, and resurrection. It's a day when families gather together to hunt for eggs, eat chocolate bunnies, and maybe even wear a bonnet or two. But how did this holiday become associated with such odd traditions? Let's take a look.

The History of Easter

Easter Sunday has its roots in the Christian tradition, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. But before it was a Christian holiday, it was a pagan celebration of spring. The Anglo-Saxons celebrated a goddess of spring and fertility named Eostre, and her symbol was a hare. When Christianity spread to the area, the holiday was merged with the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus, and the symbols of bunnies and eggs were added.

The Egg Hunt

Speaking of eggs, the tradition of hiding and hunting for eggs comes from German immigrants who brought the tradition to the United States in the 18th century. They would decorate eggs and hide them in gardens and fields for children to find. The tradition caught on and became a staple of Easter Sunday celebrations.

The Easter Bunny

But why a bunny? Well, rabbits have long been associated with spring and fertility, as they are known for their prolific breeding. And the Easter Bunny became a popular symbol of Easter in the 19th century when German immigrants in the United States brought over the tradition of the "Osterhase" or Easter Hare.

Peeps

And what about those colorful, marshmallowy treats known as Peeps? They were first created in the 1950s by a company called Just Born. Originally, they were in the shape of chicks, but now you can find Peeps in a variety of shapes and colors, including bunnies and even Christmas trees. Love them or hate them, they have become a staple of Easter baskets everywhere.

So, there you have it - the history behind some of the most beloved Easter Sunday traditions. Whether you celebrate Easter for religious reasons or just love the egg hunts and Peeps, it's a day to come together with family and friends and enjoy the start of spring. So put on your bunny ears and get cracking on those eggs!