About Easter
Easter Sunday is the most significant celebration in the Christian calendar, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion. It is observed on a Sunday between late March and late April, determined by the lunar calendar. Beyond its deep religious meaning, Easter has a rich cultural layer with spring themes of renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings. Colored eggs, chocolate bunnies, and egg-hunt events have become beloved secular traditions enjoyed by families worldwide. Churches hold special sunrise services, and communities gather for shared meals, reflecting a blend of spiritual observance and joyful seasonal celebration.
History & Origins
Easter's origins draw from both Christian and pre-Christian traditions. The name "Easter" is believed to derive from Eostre, an Anglo-Saxon spring goddess. Early Christians chose to celebrate the resurrection during the Jewish Passover season, giving the holiday its moveable date. The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD formalized the method for calculating Easter Sunday. Over centuries, springtime folk customs — eggs symbolizing new life, rabbits representing fertility — merged with Christian observance to create the rich tradition celebrated today.
Common Traditions
- ▸Attending Easter Sunday church services and sunrise vigils
- ▸Decorating hard-boiled eggs with dyes, wax, and patterns
- ▸Organizing neighborhood and backyard Easter egg hunts
- ▸Receiving Easter baskets filled with chocolate and small gifts
- ▸Family meals featuring seasonal dishes like lamb, ham, or hot cross buns
- ▸Rolling decorated eggs down hills in traditional Easter Monday events