The Sweet Tradition of Easter Eggs

A History of Giving Easter Eggs & fun games

Easter is a time of renewal and celebration, marked by various traditions around the world. One of the most beloved customs is the giving and receiving of Easter eggs. But how did this tradition originate?  Discover the fascinating origins behind this sweet tradition.

Ancient Roots

The tradition of giving eggs during Easter dates back to ancient times, long before the Christian era. Eggs were seen as symbols of fertility, new life, and rebirth, making them a natural choice for springtime celebrations. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Greeks, often exchanged eggs during their spring festivals as a way to welcome the arrival of spring and the renewal of life.

Christian Adoption

When Christianity spread throughout Europe, many pagan customs and traditions were incorporated into Christian holidays to help ease the transition for new converts. The egg, with its symbolism of new life, was easily adapted into Easter celebrations. In medieval Europe, eggs were often forbidden during Lent, making them a special treat to be enjoyed on Easter Sunday. Eggs were boiled and dyed red to symbolize the blood of Christ and the resurrection.

Decorative Techniques traditions

As the tradition of giving Easter eggs evolved, so did the techniques for decorating them. Intricate designs were created using wax resist methods, painting, and embellishments such as gold leaf. These beautifully decorated eggs became highly prized gifts, often exchanged among royalty and nobility.

The Russian Tradition

In Russia, the tradition of giving Easter eggs reached new heights with the creation of the famous Fabergé eggs. These exquisite jewelled eggs were created by the House of Fabergé for the Russian imperial family between 1885 and 1917. Each egg was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, containing a surprise inside. The most famous of these eggs is the “Imperial Coronation Egg,” created in 1897 to commemorate the coronation of Tsar Nicholas II.

Modern Customs

Today, the tradition of giving Easter eggs continues in many forms. Chocolate eggs, filled with candies or toys, are a popular choice for children. Decorative eggs, made from materials such as wood, porcelain, or plastic, are also exchanged as gifts and used for Easter decorations. The egg hunt, where children search for hidden eggs, has become a popular Easter activity in many countries.

Spice up your Easter Egg hunt this year

Easter egg hunts are a classic tradition that brings joy to children and adults alike. But why not take your Easter egg hunt to the next level with some fun and exciting games? Here are five games that will add a new twist to your Easter celebration:

Egg Relay Race

Divide the participants into teams and set up a relay race course. Each team member must balance an egg on a spoon and race to the finish line without dropping it. If the egg falls, the player must go back to the starting line and begin again. The first team to complete the race wins a prize.

Egg and Spoon Obstacle Course

Create an obstacle course in your backyard or a nearby park. Participants must navigate the course while balancing an egg on a spoon. Add challenges like crawling under ropes, jumping over hurdles, or balancing on a beam. The fastest time wins a prize.

Egg Toss

Pair up participants and have them stand a few feet apart. One person tosses an egg to their partner, who must catch it without breaking it. After each successful catch, the partners take a step back. The pair that can toss the egg the farthest distance without breaking it wins a prize.

Egg Roll

Mark a starting line and a finish line several feet apart. Each participant must use a spoon to roll an egg from the starting line to the finish line as quickly as possible. The first person to successfully roll their egg across the finish line wins a prize.

Egg Hunt Bingo

Create bingo cards with pictures or descriptions of items commonly found during an egg hunt (e.g., a blue egg, a chocolate bunny, a daffodil). As participants find each item, they mark it off on their bingo card. The first person to complete a row, column, or diagonal wins a prize.

While celebrating easter , do get your kids the latest must have soft toy our Easter bunny. https://www.featsy.co.za/shop/crochet-animal-soft-toys/

Here is to an amazing Easter , happy easter!

The tradition of giving Easter eggs is a time-honoured custom that has evolved over centuries. From ancient symbols of fertility to modern-day chocolate treats, Easter eggs continue to delight and symbolize the spirit of renewal and new life that is at the heart of the Easter celebration. As you exchange Easter eggs with loved ones this year, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and symbolism behind this sweet tradition.

While enjoying your eggs – Take a moment to remember what Easter is all about!