The Surprising Origins of Easter Eggs and the Easter Bunny

1 / 5

Easter began as a celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. Yet today it combines chocolate eggs, pastel colours and a gift-giving bunny. We dug into how these symbols found their way into the holiday. Eggs symbolised new life long before Christian traditions began. Early Christians saw the egg as a simple metaphor for the resurrection. In medieval Europe, a surplus of eggs after Lent led people to bless, decorate and gift them. Rabbits have long been tied to fertility and renewal. The familiar Easter Bunny comes from German folklore, where a hare called Osterhase laid eggs for well-behaved children. Immigrants carried this tale abroad, and it evolved into the chocolate-bunny tradition. By the 19th century, confectioners mass-produced chocolate eggs and bunnies. Today, egg hunts and sweet treats blend religious meaning with festive fun. Both symbols speak to life, hope and new beginnings.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.