The Easter Bunny

folklore · Easter · gift-giving · rabbits

A German tradition. The Easter Bunny started among German Lutherans hundreds of years ago, first mentioned in a German text from 1572. It was originally called the Easter Hare and acted like a judge to see if children had been good or bad.

Eggs and surprises. The Easter Bunny carries a basket filled with colored eggs, candy, and sometimes toys to leave at children's homes. Kids search gardens and bushes to find the hidden eggs in Easter egg hunts, which is still a popular tradition today.

Like Santa Claus. The Easter Bunny brings gifts to children before a holiday, similar to how Santa Claus works at Christmas. Both figures reward children for good behavior with special gifts and treats.

Written in history. A famous book called De ovis paschalibus from 1682 described the German folk belief that an Easter Hare laid eggs for children to find. This shows the tradition has been part of Easter celebrations for hundreds of years.