Easter

About Easter:

Easter was first celebrated by the pagans around the spring equinox. The word Easter is derived from Eastre, the goddess of spring. Eastre represents morning, spring, and fertility. She was worshipped during this time of the year. Christians attached their religion to this pagan tradition. The celebration of Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection occurs on this day.

Fun Facts:

• According to legend, the goddess known as Eastre would appear as a bunny rabbit, and thus the association of a bunny with Easter.
• The Easter egg symbolizes birth and represents the rebirth of Jesus Christ.
• 74% of children eat the ears off of their chocolate bunny first; 13% eat the feet first; and 10% eat the tail first.
• More than 1 billion Easter eggs are hunted in the United States each year.
• 700 million Marshmallow Peeps are sold each year.
• Americans spend 2 billion dollars on Easter candy, and eat 7.1 billion pounds of Easter candy each year.
• The largest Easter egg ever made was 5000 pounds and 25.7 feet long.

Activities:

• Easter egg hunt
• Make bunny masks with construction paper, paper plates and markers
• Have an Easter party and wear spring colors
• Dye Easter eggs