History of the Easter Egg

Easter Eggs

Easter eggs are a curious tradition. How did they become associated with such a religious holiday? We did our research to find some answers.

The egg is an ancient symbol of new life and it has been associated with Pagan festivals celebrating spring. It is said that the tradition of decorating and coloring eggs dates back to at least the 13th century, but it’s possible that is has been around even longer than that.  One theory is that eggs were a forbidden food during the Lenten season. With Easter marking the end of Lent, people would color and decorate them to celebrate the end of this time of repentance. After they were decorated, the eggs would be eaten as part of the Easter celebration.

Other egg-related traditions

Two other egg-related traditions are Easter egg hunts and egg rolling. In the U.S. the annual Easter egg roll takes place the Monday after Easter at the White House. In which children push decorated hard-boiled eggs across the lawn. A tradition that began when Rutherford B. Hayes was president in 1878. Easter egg hunts are thought to have begun in the 1700s when the Pennsylvania Dutch believed in Oschter Haws, an egg-laying hare who eventually became known as the Easter bunny. Children would search through the grass to find eggs left behind by Oschter Haws, starting the familiar pastime.

Regardless of which egg-related traditions you have, Price Chopper/Market 32 is your one stop shop for all things Easter! Whether you’re searching for materials to decorate eggs, prepare Easter dinner, or enjoy the perfect holiday treats we are proud to provide the solution!

Happy Easter!

Leave a Reply