Pagan Traditions of Easter

Easter is a holiday that is celebrated worldwide, with varying traditions and customs. However, it is not just a Christian holiday. In fact, the origins of Easter can be traced back to ancient pagan traditions that celebrated the arrival of spring and the rebirth of nature. This article will explore the popular pagan traditions of Easter. One of the most prominent figures associated with Easter is the Easter Bunny. The tradition of the Easter Bunny has its roots in pagan celebrations of the goddess Eostre, who was associated with the arrival of spring and the fertility of the land. The rabbit was one of her sacred animals and was seen as a symbol of fertility and new life. German immigrants brought the custom of the Easter Bunny to America in the 19th century, where it evolved into the popular Easter Bunny we know today [1]. Another popular Easter tradition with pagan roots is the decoration and giving of eggs. Eggs were seen as a symbol of fertility and new life, and were often used in pagan celebrations of the arrival of spring. In many pagan cultures, eggs were painted and exchanged as gifts. Today, the tradition of decorating and giving eggs has evolved into the modern practice of dyeing and hiding Easter eggs for children to find [3]. The Spring Equinox, which falls around March 21st or 22nd, is another important pagan celebration that has become associated with Easter. The Spring Equinox marks the time when day and night are of equal length and represents a time of balance and renewal. This holiday is also known as Ostara, which is named after the Germanic goddess Eostre. During this holiday, pagans celebrate the arrival of spring with bonfires, feasts, and offerings to the goddess of fertility [5]. In conclusion, the popular pagan traditions of Easter have their roots in ancient celebrations of the arrival of spring and the rebirth of nature. The Easter Bunny, the decoration and giving of eggs, and the celebration of the Spring Equinox are just a few examples of these traditions that have evolved over time into the modern-day Easter holiday. Understanding the pagan origins of Easter can give us a deeper appreciation for the customs and traditions that have become associated with this holiday.