Overview

• Easter is rooted in Christian theology, celebrating Jesus Christ's resurrection after his crucifixion more than 2,000 years ago.
• Eggs, central to Easter traditions, symbolize new life and are linked to both Jesus' resurrection and earlier pagan spring festivals honoring fertility and rebirth.
• The practice of coloring eggs dates back to at least the 13th century, with some traditions rooted in Lent and Orthodox Christian symbolism.
• The first documented Easter egg hunts were organized by Martin Luther in 17th-century Germany, later brought to America by German immigrants in the 1700s.
• The Easter Bunny, introduced to the U.S. by German settlers, evolved from the Osterhase, an egg-laying hare, into a beloved symbol of modern Easter festivities.