Easter is on a different day each year because Easter Sunday is the Sunday after the first full moon after the first day of Spring (21 March). Many of the symbols and traditions of Easter are connected with renewal, birth, good luck and fertility. Easter eggs are a very old tradition going to a time before Christianity. Eggs after all, are a symbol of spring and new life. Exchanging and eating Easter eggs is a popular custom in many countries. In the UK before they were replaced by chocolate Easter eggs, real eggs were used, in most cases, chicken eggs. The eggs were hard-boiled and dyed in various colors and patterns. The traditionally bright colours represented spring and light. Rabbits, due to their fecund nature, have always been a symbol of fertility. In Britain children believe that if they are good the “Easter Bunny” will leave (chocolate) eggs for them. Easter was once a traditional day for getting married. That may be the reason why people often dress up for Easter. Women would make and wear special Easter bonnets. They are decorated with flowers and ribbons.
18