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Monday 4 April 2016

Easter

The Easter Bunny
The exact origins of this mythical mammal is unclear, but rabbits are an ancient symbol of fertility and new life. According to some sources, the Easter Bunny arrived in America in the 17th century with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania and transported their tradition of the egg-laying hare called Osterhase or Oschter Haws. Their children made nests in which this creature could lay its coloured eggs. Eventually, this custom spread across the United States and then they started creating bunny shaped chocolates and gifts.

Bet You Didn't Know
The Easter Bunny is not the only animal that is associated with Easter. In Switzerland, an Eagle delivers the Easter eggs. While in different parts of Germany, the Easter Fox, Chick, Rooster and Stork deliver the eggs.

The Easter Egg
Easter is a religious holiday, but some of its customs, such as the Easter eggs, are likely linked to pagan traditions. The egg, an ancient symbol of new life, has been associated with  pagan festivals celebrating spring. From a Christian perspective, Easter eggs are said to represent Jesus's emergence from the tomb and resurrection. Decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back to at least the 13th century, according to some sources. One explanation for this custom is that eggs were formerly a forbidden food during the Lenten season, so people would paint and decorate them to mark the end of the period of penance and fasting, then eat them on Easter as a celebration.


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