A bunny. Why a bunny? Have you ever wondered why Easter is associated with a bunny and eggs? I have. A lot. It keeps me up at night sometimes. Well, not really, but it does seem strange. So follow along as we look at the evolution of how the Easter Bunny became associated with Easter. Then check out and download our free Easter coloring pages.
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Happy Easter, everyone! Well… soon, as we get closer to the holiday, we are excited to share some fun Easter Coloring Pages to add a little more color to your season. But first, we did a little Googling and thought the history of Easter was really interested and wanted to share it with you. Check out all of the fun details, including information on the Easter bunny, and the please print our our FREE Easter Coloring Pages to share with your littles… or if you are anything like me, to color on your own!
Ancient Roots
The origins of the Easter Bunny can be traced back to ancient pagan festivals celebrating the arrival of spring. One such festival, known as Eostre or Ostara, honored the goddess of fertility, Eostre. According to legend, Eostre transformed a bird into a hare, which then laid eggs as gifts of thanks. This association between hares, eggs, and springtime fertility became intertwined with Easter as Christianity spread across Europe.
Medieval Folklore
In medieval Europe, the hare was often depicted as a symbol of fertility and rebirth due to its prolific breeding habits. German folklore introduced the concept of the “Osterhase” or Easter Hare, who would lay colored eggs for children to find during the Easter season. These traditions gradually evolved, with children building nests for the Osterhase to lay its eggs, much like the modern custom of Easter egg hunts.
Arrival in America
The tradition of the Easter Bunny found its way to America with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania in the 1700s. Over time, the Osterhase became the Easter Bunny, and the tradition of egg hunts and Easter baskets spread across the country. In 1885, the first documented reference to the Easter Bunny in America appeared in the writings of German immigrant settlers.
Modern-Day Symbolism
Today, the Easter Bunny is a beloved symbol of Easter, representing the joy and excitement of the season. Children eagerly await the arrival of the Easter Bunny, who is said to hop from house to house, delivering treats and spreading cheer. From chocolate bunnies to colorful eggs, the Easter Bunny continues to play a central role in Easter celebrations around the world.
The origins of the Easter Bunny are as rich and diverse as the traditions that surround it. From ancient pagan rituals to medieval folklore and modern-day customs, the Easter Bunny has endured as a symbol of hope, fertility, and renewal. As we celebrate Easter and welcome the arrival of spring, let us embrace the spirit of the Easter Bunny and the joy it brings to young and old alike.
So, this Easter, as you gather with loved ones and indulge in chocolate eggs and marshmallow treats, take a moment to reflect on the rich history and symbolism of the Easter Bunny – a cherished symbol of the season and a reminder of the beauty of new beginnings.
Easter Coloring Pages
So what are you waiting for? It time to print out some fun Easter Coloring Pages for the littles! We have included easy to download and print versions of our Easter coloring pages below!
Click the picture below to download our FREE printable!
Looking for even more Easter Coloring? Check out these coloring books.
What kind of Easter Coloring Pages or ANY kind of Coloring Pages should we make next? Leave a comment letting us know!
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