Easter has long been a cherished celebration, from cotton tails and bunny ears to eggs overflowing in baskets aplenty. Blending rites and rituals into a mélange of special traditions that endure to this day, this celebration has gathered families throughout centuries. But have you ever paused to wonder where your furry neighborhood friend, the Easter Bunny, truly comes from? Or why did people suddenly decide rolling eggs downhill was a thing?
As it turns out, many of these beloved traditions began as ancient customs celebrating fertility and rebirth. Over time, they hopped into new lands, mixing with Christian observances of resurrection to create the blend of symbols we know today.
Let’s dive in to discover the origin behind Easter traditions and what they symbolize, both when and how they started — plus useful storage tips for Easter decor.
The story behind Easter eggs
Decorating, hunting and enjoying eggs, whether actual or made of chocolate, is a beloved Easter tradition — one that feels uniquely American. Yet, eggs, as a symbol of spring and Easter, trace their roots to ancient customs from around the world.
Long before eggs became part of modern Easter festivities, they were symbols of renewal and rebirth celebrated by many ancient cultures each spring. With winter’s end and the arrival of warmer weather, eggs naturally represented fertility and the promise of new life. These seasonal celebrations eventually merged with religious traditions brought by European settlers, shaping the Easter holiday as Americans know it today.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, European immigrants, particularly Germans and Eastern Europeans introduced the custom of decorating eggs to celebrate Easter. Over time, these colorful eggs evolved into the Easter egg hunt, a cherished moment in American families, and an event eagerly anticipated by children.
Later, chocolate makers and candy companies introduced the sweet innovation of chocolate eggs and other spring-themed candies. Today, chocolate eggs wrapped in bright foil and elaborate Easter baskets overflowing with goodies are an iconic part of American Easter celebrations. Having Easter without these treats is like a Christmas day without chestnuts roasting on an open fire, or so they say.
The legendary Easter Bunny
Easter Bunny’s origins are quite different from today’s fluffy, chocolate-loving character that makes Easter celebrations fun for kids. Originally, the beloved rabbit symbolized fertility and abundance, linked to an ancient spring festival dedicated to Eostre, the goddess of renewal and new life. Rabbits, known for their prolific nature, became her symbolic animal, cementing their place as icons of springtime rebirth.
When German immigrants brought their traditions to America, a character called Osterhase was one of them. This benevolent and charming hare would reward well-behaved children by hiding colorful eggs for them to find. From Pennsylvania, where German immigrants initially settled, the Easter Bunny tradition expanded throughout the country.
Kids naturally embraced this delightful custom with much enthusiasm, making little nests in which the rabbit could leave these eggs safely. Sometimes, they even left out carrots for the generous bunny — just in case it needed a snack.
Today, the Easter Bunny tradition has comfortably hopped into American culture, becoming a cherished part of spring celebrations nationwide. While the bunny might be a bit more laid-back these days, happily scattering eggs filled with sweets and treats, the thrill of the egg hunt remains timeless. Just ask the folks in Winter Haven, Florida, who, in 2007 alone hid more than half a million eggs in a record-breaking event. It’s fair to say that this tradition is not hopping away anytime soon.
Eggs on the lawn – a presidential Easter tradition
As odd as it may sound to people from other parts of the world, rolling eggs down a hill on a Monday is actually quite a common occurrence over here. Well, the first Monday after Easter, to be more precise. It’s simply one of those casual traditions that everyone knows and loves. But how did the famed Easter Egg Roll begin, and why does it involve the White House?
The story dates back to 1872 when newspaper clippings reported children gathering to roll eggs on the west side of the Capitol grounds. However, as children tend to do, things got a little chaotic, leading Congress to pass the Turf Protection Law in 1876, effectively banning egg rolling on Capitol grounds. But you can’t keep children away any more than you can stop an egg from rolling.
In 1878, under President Rutherford B. Hayes, the gates of the White House South Lawn were opened to egg rollers, officially establishing the White House Easter Egg Roll. From that moment on, it became an annual tradition.
Over time, each First Lady has added her personal touch to the event, bringing flavor and flair to the festivities. From folk dancing zones to the legendary Easter Bunny, who First Lady Pat Nixon first invited, the tradition has grown more elaborate with each passing year.
Now, you can find special bunnies greeting you there with baskets of goodies, games and recreational zones. You might even run into Reese Witherspoon reading a book to some children. A casual day for her, we bet.
First, it was the lamb
Much like eggs, the lamb has become synonymous with Easter itself. Perhaps it’s because the lambing season, when lambs are born, naturally aligns with springtime – a season of renewal and rebirth. Or maybe it’s the emblematic Lamb of God, a representation of sacrifice and salvation. Either way, the lamb has earned its place as a centerpiece, both symbolically and literally, at the big Easter dinner that so many are familiar with.
Nowadays, during Easter Sunday gatherings with loved ones, the lamb’s legacy continues —not through ancient rituals but through a hearty meal shared among the family. 
On the sweeter side, lamb-shaped cakes have also taken kitchens by storm, as you are most likely to spot these among the other goodies at the table. Oftentimes, the recipe for the cake is passed down from generation to generation as a reminder of the power of heritage. Plus, they’re as delicious as cute as they look.
Then it was the ham
At the usual Easter table, lamb might seem like the star of the show, but in many places, especially in the southern states, ham has stolen the spotlight. The switch from lamb to ham wasn’t just a whim — it was all about being practical. As sheep farming became less popular and the demand for lamb decreased, ham stepped in to save the day (or perhaps the meal would be best).
Since it was cheaper than the classic lamb, ham quickly became the go-to choice in many households. Another great benefit was that it could cure slowly throughout the winter. By the time spring arrived, it was perfectly ready to be enjoyed at the Easter feast. As such, ham’s sweet and salty flavors won the hearts of Americans rapidly, and it became an affordable favorite for families.
Easter baskets
Easter baskets were once filled with various foods that were strictly forbidden during Lent. We’ve come a long way from that, though, as sweeter and more extravagant treats were added to the basket instead.
Today, filling Easter baskets with treats has become a favorite activity for families across the United States. Children eagerly await baskets brimming with chocolate eggs, candy bunnies, marshmallow Peeps, and countless other goodies to delight their sweet tooth. Yet, this joyful custom isn’t reserved just for kids — around two-thirds of Americans create Easter baskets for friends and loved ones of all ages.
Decorating the baskets themselves has also become part of the fun, with colorful ribbons, grass, and playful decorations added to catch the eye — and hopefully attract a certain egg-delivering bunny known to visit homes across the country each spring.
Easter brunch
All celebrations, including Easter, have always been about bringing people together. And what better way to do it than over a good meal? One of the most cherished traditions in the U.S. is the Easter Sunday brunch, a time when loved ones gather to share a festive meal and enjoy each other’s company. Historically, the table would be set with symbolic foods like lamb, ham, and eggs, reflecting both religious roots and seasonal abundance.
Today, while the menu may have evolved (with a few more Peeps and chocolate treats in the mix), the spirit of Easter brunch remains strong. And, of course, there’s something about Easter brunch that just feels like spring. It’s often one of the first chances of the year to enjoy a meal outside, with flowers blooming, fresh air, and sunshine setting the scene. Many families still cook at home, but dining out has also become a popular choice, offering a convenient way to celebrate without the prep or cleanup.
Egg pocking
While you may have never heard of this tradition, those in New Orleans and surrounding areas are very familiar with this Easter pastime. Known as “egg pocking” or “egg knocking,” this Cajun custom involves boiling eggs and tapping them against an opponent’s in a playful game to see whose egg remains uncracked. Simple, fun, and perfect for all ages.
The roots of egg pocking trace back to French settlers, with the term “pocking” derived from the French word “Pâques” meaning Easter. Some say the name also mimics the “pock” sound made when two eggs collide.
The small town of Marksville, Louisiana, has proudly hosted this tradition since the 1950s. Every Easter Sunday, locals gather outside the courthouse to engage in friendly competition.
Decorating for Easter
As spring awakens, Easter decorating has become an integral part of American traditions. Across the country, driveways and mantelpieces are adorned with Easter bunnies and flower centerpieces, capturing the season’s festive spirit. The style of decorations often reflects the local climate and culture, making each region’s celebration unique.
For instance, in the Northeast, a tradition involves decorating trees with eggs, reminiscent of Christmas ornaments but tailored to Easter’s joyful theme. Meanwhile, in Hawaii, creativity shines through as locals craft exquisite Easter hats from scratch, showcasing their island flair.
Decorating for Easter not only welcomes the arrival of spring but also honors the holiday’s spiritual roots. As families prepare for Easter, decorating and spring cleaning go hand in hand, symbolizing renewal and fresh beginnings. Over time, the Easter bunny has emerged as the star of these festive displays, embodying the excitement that comes with this celebration.
Where to store your Easter decorations between holidays
Participating in Easter festivities fosters a sense of unity and togetherness, allowing children and adults to engage with equal enthusiasm. The season of rebirth brings families together in joyful activities like crafting little egg baskets for the kids or displaying bunny-shaped decorations.
If you’re looking to preserve your cherished Easter decorations without cluttering up your home, consider storing them in a secure spot until next spring. For those short on space, self storage can be a practical solution. It’s generally an affordable service, and with the boom in new facility construction in recent years, there’s likely a storage location not far from home.
How much space do you need for Easter decorations?
Easter decorations seem to have a way of multiplying. Whether it’s an army of colorful bunny figurines or a growing collection of handcrafted baskets from the kids, they pile up fast. Before you know it, your home can feel like drowning in a fluffy sea of festive chaos, leaving little room to breathe. If your attic or garage is already bursting at the seams with other seasonal treasures or valuables, self storage might just be the timely hero you need to reclaim your space.
For those who prefer a minimalist Easter celebration, a 5’x5′ storage unit should do the trick for stashing a few baskets and eggs. But if you went all out with life-sized bunnies and elaborate yard displays, you might consider upgrading to a 5’x10′ unit. And if you live in a humid climate and are no stranger to scorching summers, opting for a climate-controlled storage unit is a smart move to keep everything safe during their seasonal hibernation.
Best ways to store your Easter décor in a storage unit
So, you’ve picked out your storage unit and are ready to fill it with your festive decorations. What’s next? The key now is to focus on how you store your items. After all, you don’t want to ruin your carefully preserved decorations after all the effort you’ve put into finding them a temporary home. Here’s what you should go for:
- Plastic bins: Sturdy and efficient, plastic bins are a classic choice because they do their job well. They’re stackable, which helps save space, but be careful not to overdo it. Too many stacked bins can crush what’s inside. Use them for all kinds of decorations, as well as fabric items like special tablecloths or those colorful Easter eggs waiting patiently for the bunny’s return next year.
- Hooks: Wreaths of any kind are delicate and shouldn’t be stacked on each other. Instead, hang them using hooks inside your unit to preserve their shape and integrity throughout the coming months. The petals and greenery are fragile, so keeping them suspended is the best way to protect them.
- Padded boxes: Nestle your delicate items in well-padded boxes or bins. Avoid placing heavier objects on top to keep these fragile treasures safe. Egg baskets filled with memories from your kids’ creative adventures can be stored here, reflecting the joy of your time together.
- Folders and binders: Little handmade decorations, like bunny cutouts, ears, and drawings crafted by sticky, curious fingers, can find a cozy home in folders. Organize them by year so you can easily keep track of every memory from each celebration.
- Place standing upright: Larger items can be stored upright, like backyard décor that kicked off your bunny extravaganza but don’t fit in any box. Just be sure to cover any delicate parts with blankets or bubble wrap to protect their shape and keep dust from settling in.
- Reuse egg cartons: Got a bunch of eggs but nowhere to stash them? Give those egg cartons a second life! They’re already perfectly shaped to cradle your eggs, so why toss them? Reuse them for a greener, smarter choice — keeping your eggs cozy and your eco-game strong. After all, who knows eggs better than their trusty carton?
Now that you’ve explored the origins of Easter traditions and discovered clever decor storage tips, your holiday preparations are complete. Take a moment to sit back, relax, and enjoy a joyful celebration — Happy Easter!
