The Easter Bunny as a symbol of Easter began in Alsace and southwestern Germany, where it was first mentioned in German writings in the 1600s.
The rabbit is one of the most fertile animals and is associated with the rising fertility of the earth at the time of the Vernal Equinox. Rather than a religious time, Easter and the rabbit were first associated with the Pagan Spring Festival celebrating the goddess of Eostre, from whom the word Easter is derived.
German settlers arriving in Pennsylvania in the 1700’s introduced the Easter bunny to America. The Germans made the first edible Easter bunnies out of pastry and sugar. The arrival of the "Oschter Haws" (the bunny) was considered "childhood's greatest pleasure" next to a visit from Christ-Kindel on Christmas Eve.
According to tradition, boys and girls built brightly colored nests using their caps bonnets instead of baskets. They would hide the nests in the home, barn, or garden for the Easter bunny and if the children were good, the "Oschter Haws" would leave brightly colored eggs in their nests.
As the tradition spread, the nest evolved into the manufactured, modern day Easter gift basket. Boys and girls, as well as adults who love tradition, still love to be surprised with colorful Easter baskets. While it takes time to shop for the Easter gift components, gift basket companies such as Business of Baskets, can help you immensely! No need for you to spend time shopping, driving, wrapping, or shipping gifts. Business of Baskets has very impressive, fun Easterbaskets and Easter gifts for your loved ones anywhere in the United States. They will also customize Easter baskets to your budget and special requests. HAPPY EASTER!
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