For many, this is the time for colorful egg hunts and a weekend filled with chocolates from friends and family members. What are the origins of Easter? Here are a few facts:

1. Easter is the Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus.
2. Eggs are given out as a symbol for fertility, since springtime (or, for us in the Southern Hemisphere, fall) is considered the time of of new life or rebirth.
3. The first story of a rabbit (later named “Easter Bunny”) hiding eggs appeared in 1680.
4. Holy Week leads up to Easter; it begins on Palm Sunday and goes on until Easter Sunday.
5. Easter takes place on a Sunday, after the 40-day period of supposed fasting called Lent; however, many participants focus on giving up just one significant indulgence.

Whether or not you celebrate Easter, enjoy the three-day weekend!