Pagan Easter traditions actually date back before Christianity existed. And some of these traditions are the reason why eggs and bunnies are such a big part of this holiday.

Pagan symbols of rebirth, Christian teachings of resurrection, and folklore characters have all woven together to create the Easter traditions we know today.

The Conversation explores the origins of the long and interesting journey the Easter Bunny has taken from European prehistory to today.

A Springtime Symbol The Folk Origins of Ostara Perhaps the most popular origin myth for the Easter Bunny concerns the Germanic Pagan goddess of spring, Ostara, to whom hares were supposedly sacred.

Meanwhile, many of the cultural historians find, in the celebration of Easter, a convergence of the three traditions - Pagan, Hebrew and Christian.

In fact, Easter—which is a floating holiday held on a date determined by the vernal equinox and the first spring full moon—is even thought by some to have its origins in an ancient pagan festival.

The history of the Easter basket and useful gift ideas for kids A-Tisket, A-Tasket, it's time to put together your kid's Easter basket.

The Conversation explores the origins of the long and interesting journey the Easter Bunny has taken from European prehistory to today.

The Conversation explores the origins of the long and interesting journey the Easter Bunny has taken from European prehistory to today.