The Real Story of the Easter Bunny

Like Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny is well known to kids all over the world as the mythical character who brings chocolate and gifts at Easter time. In this article, we dive down the rabbit hole to find out more about the origins of this Easter legend.

Did you know that the Bunny was ordinally a Hare?

While the exact origins of the Easter bunny are clouded in mystery, according to some sources, the Easter bunny first arrived in America in the 1700s with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania and transported their tradition of an egg-laying hare called “Osterhase”. Hase means “hare”, not rabbit, in Northwest European folklore so the “Easter Bunny” is indeed a hare!

Their children made nests in which this creature could lay its coloured eggs. Eventually, the custom spread across the world and the fabled rabbit’s Easter morning deliveries expanded to include chocolate and other types of candy and gifts, while decorated baskets replaced nests. Additionally, children often left out carrots for the bunny in case he got hungry from all his hopping. (History.com)

But why a bunny? On theory suggests that the symbol of the rabbit stems from pagan tradition, specifically the festival of Eostre—a goddess of fertility whose animal symbol was a bunny. Rabbits, known for their energetic breeding, have traditionally symbolized fertility. Eggs are also representative of new life, and it’s believed that decorating eggs for Easter dates back to the 13th century.

The many faces of the Easter Bunny

Time to get decorating!

So now you know all about the Easter Bunny Whichever Easter tradition you believe I think we can all agree that adorable bunny ornaments and Easter decorations are so much fun! From bunnies driving trucks to bunnies who scooter, there is something for everyone.

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