Most family and friends gather around the table for the tradition of coloring of Easter eggs. However, did you know that there is history behind the Easter egg? The tradition began in the 13th century. Early Christians in Mesopotamia dyed eggs after Easter occurred. This practice was developed by the Orthodox Churches and from there it spread into Western Europe. Eggs are strange, so why were  eggs “adopted” for the Easter season and not another food? Eggs represent something that sets them apart from any other object for this tradition. Eggs represent a new life and a rebirth. Spring is a time for growth, new life, and a rebirth.

Easter eggs and their new life and rebirth represent Jesus’ Resurrection. It is said in some sources that eggs were a forbidden food during the time and preparation of Lent. Decorating them is to represent a celebration to the end of the Lenten season. Egg shaped toys soon became popular in the 17th and 18th century. There are many different ways to decorate Easter eggs and a lot of it depends on the culture they are being decorated in.

Just like Halloween pumpkins, there are many ways to decorate Easter eggs. Dipping the egg in dye then putting stickers on them. Speckling eggs is another way of decorating them. The newest method is to take shaving cream and swirl some dye into it and roll the egg around and let it sit for up to one hour. Rinse them off and then turn into a tie-dyed egg.

Enjoy decorating your Easter with a little bit of history behind it!