Easter is a time for spring-filled activities and a time to reflect on the events of the year. Whether people participate in traditions alone, with friends, or with family, there is no denying that Easter traditions are enjoyable for everyone and may be remembered for years to come.
1. Easter Bunny
The Easter Bunny is a popular figure in Easter. Rabbits are thought of as a symbol of new life. The traditional Easter Bunny has been in America since the 1700s. In the past, children would make nests for the colored eggs. Now, decorated baskets and chocolate are popular.
2. Celebrating the Lenten Season
Many Christians participate in the 40 days of Lent. Lent is a spiritual preparation period for Christians between Ash Wednesday and Easter. Fasting, prayer and sacrifices are very common traditions practices in Lent.
3. Easter Meal
A frequent Easter tradition is gathering around for a meal with family and friends. Common foods enjoyed in this meal are lamb to symbolize “The Lamb of God,” eggs to represent rebirth, carrot cake to reflect the carrots associated with Easter, and hot cross buns, bread marked with a cross in icing, most common in English traditions.
4. Church Services
People attend services on the day of Easter. There is celebration in the church that day for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Prayers are circulated around reflection, and traditional songs such as “Christ the Lord is Risen Today,” “The Old Rugged Cross,” and “In the Garden” are sung.
5. Egg Hunts
For many years now, children have been searching for eggs. They are usually hidden by the “Easter Bunny.” Easter eggs have been tracked back to the 13th century. Eggs are commonly filled with prizes, candy, or toys, which children collect in their basket.
6. Coloring Eggs
Many participate in coloring eggs for Easter by using various colored dyes and hard-boiled eggs. This activity is perfect for all ages, even smaller children, and adds color to the staple of Easter, eggs.
7. Easter Baskets
A more recent tradition is Easter Baskets. These baskets are usually filled with candies and toys and are gifted by friends, family, or even the Easter Bunny. Children wake up on Easter morning to find their Easter Baskets that appeared overnight.
8. Egg Roll
Egg Rolls are not the most popular tradition but are still fun for families. Traditionally at the meal gathered for Easter, each member has a dyed egg with their name on it. Each member rolls their egg to the center of the circle made by the group. The last egg standing without cracks or scratches wins the game.
9. Easter Candies
Many Easter candies such as Peeps are consumed, some given as gifts or just purchased. Easter Candy is the second best-selling candy for holidays in America. Currently, jellybeans are one of the most popular candies and are known by everyone nationwide. A common name in Easter candy is Cadbury, who make chocolate eggs and bunnies.
10. Easter Parade
New York City hosts an Easter Parade that dates all the way back to the 1800s. It takes place in Manhattan, shutting down eight streets of traffic. There was even a film made called Easter Parade, which stars Judy Garland. People in attendance dress up in spring outfits.