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Top 10 Fascinating History of Easter You Probably Didn’t Know
18
Mar
Mar
Easter Sunday is on the horizon quicker than a hare sprinting down its burrow, meaning it’s nearly time to grab the egg dyeing supplies, plan the Easter feast, and put together the family’s Easter baskets. Even though there is much to do before Easter Sunday, taking a few moments to read up on the history of the holiday can make it feel even more meaningful. This Christian holiday, which is celebrated annually on Sunday, April 9, has been observed since the second century as a commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Throughout the years, various customs have been established to celebrate Easter, such as giving chocolate bunnies and having Easter egg hunts. Some of these traditions are specific to certain regions, while others are determined by a family’s cultural background, and there can even be variations between households.
No matter the manner in which you commemorate it, Easter has a rich history that is filled with beloved customs and traditions, like the Easter Bunny, ham dinners, and egg hunts. Here, we have gathered some of the most interesting facts about the holiday to help you appreciate it even more.
Easter Eggs
Easter eggs are a popular Easter tradition and are often used as a decoration or gift. They are typically made from real eggs that have been dyed or decorated, but chocolate or plastic eggs filled with treats are also popular. The tradition of coloring and decorating eggs for Easter is believed to have originated in the 13th century and has since become a staple of the holiday. The egg is a symbol of new life, and in Christianity, it is associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The most common way of decorating Easter eggs is by dyeing them in vibrant colors. This is usually done by boiling the eggs in a pot of water with a variety of dyes, either natural or store-bought. Natural dyes can be made from ingredients such as onion skins, turmeric, and red cabbage. Store-bought dyes are often made with food coloring. After dying the eggs, they can be decorated with a variety of materials, such as stickers, markers, glitter, and ribbon.
Easter Sunday Sunrise Service
Easter Sunday Sunrise Service is a special religious service held on Easter morning. It is usually held outdoors, early in the morning, and it symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The service usually involves singing hymns, reading scripture, and hearing a sermon about Jesus’ resurrection. Many churches will also have special activities for children and families.
The tradition of the Easter Sunday Sunrise Service is believed to have originated in the early church. It was a way to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is at the heart of the Christian faith. For centuries, the service has been a time of joy and celebration, and a time of reflection and renewal.
The Easter Sunday Sunrise Service is a popular event in many churches. It is often held outdoors, and it is a great way to start Easter morning. Many churches will have special activities for children and families, such as an egg hunt or a special breakfast. The service is a time to reflect on the importance of the resurrection and to express gratitude for the gift of salvation.
Lent
In many ways, Lent has shaped the Easter celebrations we know today. From its traditional 40-day fast (excluding Sundays) to the modern-day abstinence from meat on Fridays and the forgoing of certain indulgences, Lent has provided the foundation for our Easter feasts.
By the time the hot cross buns are taken out of the oven, people are usually more than ready to enjoy the treats they’ve been missing during the Lenten season, regardless of whether the church is following Western or Eastern practices.
Easter Candy
Easter candy is a staple of the Easter holiday. It is an essential part of Easter baskets and egg hunts, and often a favorite treat of children and adults alike. Easter candy typically consists of pastel-colored chocolates, jelly beans, marshmallow eggs, and other sweet treats. Chocolate eggs and bunnies are especially popular choices. Some stores even sell special Easter-themed candy like Peeps, a marshmallow confection shaped like a chick or bunny.
Easter candy is often used to decorate cakes, cupcakes, and other treats. Many people like to make their own Easter candy, such as chocolate bunnies or homemade marshmallow eggs. This is a great way to add a personal touch to an Easter celebration. Many stores also sell pre-made Easter candy that is ready to be enjoyed.
Easter Bonnets
Easter bonnets are a centuries-old tradition that is still celebrated today. The custom of wearing an Easter bonnet dates back to the Victorian era and was seen as a way to celebrate the season of rebirth and renewal. The bonnets were often decorated with colorful ribbons, feathers, and other bright decorations. In some parts of the world, Easter bonnets are still worn on Easter Sunday to signify the start of the Easter season.
The traditional Easter bonnet often consists of a wide-brimmed hat with a decorative ribbon around the crown. The bonnets may be decorated with intricate designs, such as flowers, crosses, and other religious symbols. Some people also choose to add a veil to their bonnet, or even a flower or two. In some cultures, the Easter bonnet is a symbol of fertility and renewal and is said to bring good luck and prosperity.
Easter Dinner with Lamb vs. Ham
Although the decision of what to have for Easter dinner might vary according to individual preference, the menu has a deep meaning for many.
At Easter, the lamb is a popular choice for many Orthodox Christians, as it is a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice as the “lamb of God.” The tradition of eating lamb for Passover, which has its roots in early Jewish history, continues to be honored by these Christians. Many Orthodox Christians still adhere to the Jewish Orthodox customs of abstaining from pork, thus lamb becomes the main dish at their Easter feast.
Many cultures around the world view the ham centerpiece as a symbol of good luck, making it a popular choice for Easter celebrations. Historians believe the timing of Easter in the spring may have played a role in the tradition; as the pork was slaughtered in the fall and then smoked for a few months, it was ready to be served in time for Easter dinner.
The Easter Bunny
Similar to the Easter Bunny, many other customs and traditions have their origin in ancient fertility and springtime rituals. Given that rabbits reproduce in the springtime, it made sense to use them as a representation of fertility, and this eventually led to them being associated with Easter.
As the story goes, Pamela Kennedy recounts in her book, An Easter Celebration: Traditions and Customs from Around the World, a destitute woman who had a fondness for children would hide painted eggs in her garden for the youngsters to find on Easter. One year, as the children searched for them, they saw a rabbit pass by and believed it had placed the eggs there. This gave rise to the Easter bunny legend.
The White House Easter Egg Roll
The White House Easter Egg Roll is an annual event held at the White House in Washington D.C. on the Monday following Easter Sunday. The event was first held in 1878 and is one of the oldest and most beloved White House traditions.
The event typically begins with a speech by the President of the United States and includes activities such as egg rolling, egg hunting, and a variety of other games and activities. The event is open to the public and typically draws a large crowd of families, tourists, and special guests.
The event has evolved over the years, but the main activities remain the same. During the egg roll, participants try to roll their hard-boiled eggs across the South Lawn of the White House and into a designated circle. The first person to roll their egg into the circle is the winner.
Easter Baskets
Easter baskets are a traditional part of the Easter celebration. They are usually filled with candy, chocolates, and other treats, and decorated with ribbons and colorful Easter eggs. The tradition of Easter baskets dates back to the mid-19th century when they were used as a way to celebrate the Christian holiday of Easter. Today, Easter baskets are a popular way to show appreciation and give a special gift to family and friends.
Easter baskets come in all shapes and sizes and can be customized to fit any budget. They range from small baskets with a few pieces of candy to large baskets filled with goodies like chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, and marshmallow Peeps. Some baskets even include toys, books, and other fun items. Easter baskets can also be personalized with a special message or monogram.
Easter baskets are a great way to show someone you care. They can be filled with special items like personalized gifts or mementos from shared memories. They’re also a great way to get creative and have fun with the Easter celebration. Whether you’re making your own Easter basket or buying one pre-made, they’re sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Easter Peeps
Easter Peeps are a popular marshmallow candy that is often associated with Easter. The marshmallow treats come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and are usually shaped like chicks, bunnies, and other Easter-related designs. They are made from a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin, and are usually covered in a layer of sugar. Peeps have been around since the 1950s and have become a favorite treat for Easter celebrations.
Peeps are easy to find in grocery stores and convenience stores around Easter time. They are often used in Easter baskets, given as gifts, and used to decorate cakes and other desserts. Some people even use them to decorate Easter eggs.
Peeps are a fun and festive way to celebrate Easter. They are a great treat to enjoy with family and friends, and they can be used in creative ways to make the holiday more special. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or use them to decorate, Easter Peeps are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
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