Easter is a widely celebrated holiday, marked by family gatherings, egg hunts, and delightful chocolate treats. But beyond the traditions we observe today, Easter carries a fascinating history and plenty of quirky facts that make the holiday even more unique. Here are some surprising Easter facts that'll crack you up.

Easter’s Date Changes Every Year  

Unlike Christmas, Easter doesn’t fall on a fixed date. Instead, it’s celebrated on the first Sunday following the full moon after the vernal equinox. This means that Easter can land anywhere between March 22 and April 25, making it a holiday that keeps us guessing year after year.

Why Eggs Play Such A Big Role  

Eggs have long been considered a symbol of fertility and rebirth, which ties perfectly to the themes of Easter and spring. Decorating eggs dates back centuries, with various cultures adding their own flair to the tradition.

The Largest Chocolate Bunny Ever Made Weighed Over 9,000 Pounds  

Yes, you read that correctly! The largest chocolate rabbit sculpture was crafted in Brazil in 2017, measuring over 14 feet and weighing an incredible 9,359 pounds. Just imagine the sugar rush!

The Easter Bunny Is A Relatively Modern Creation  

The Easter Bunny we know today originated in Germany, where children believed an “Easter Hare” laid colorful eggs for them to find. German immigrants brought this tradition to the U.S. in the 1700s, and the rest is history.

Americans Consume Millions Of Peeps Every Easter  

Did you know that over 1.5 billion marshmallow Peeps are consumed each Easter? These sugary confections are the unofficial dessert of the season, showing up in baskets, recipes, and even colorful crafts.

Easter Candy Madness Is Bigger Than Halloween  

Easter is the second largest candy holiday in the U.S., with Halloween taking the top spot. From chocolate bunnies to caramel-filled eggs, Americans spend a whopping $3 billion on candy each Easter.

Egg Rolling At The White House Began In 1878  

The famous White House Easter Egg Roll, a tradition adored by kids, began under President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878. Originally held on the Capitol grounds, it was moved to the White House lawn, where it has remained a festive event to this day.

The Oldest Easter Egg Is Over 500 Years Old  

The world’s oldest decorated Easter egg dates back to the 15th century and belongs to the Ukranian pysanka tradition, where eggs are intricately painted with beautiful designs using wax and dye.

Hot Cross Buns Have Easter Roots  

Hot cross buns, studded with raisins or currants and marked with a cross, are a classic Easter treat. This snack dates back to the 12th century and symbolizes the crucifixion of Jesus.

Australians Have The “Easter Bilby”  

While much of the world celebrates with the Easter Bunny, Australians prefer the “Easter Bilby,” a marsupial native to their country. The bilby was chosen to raise awareness for the critically endangered species, adding a meaningful twist to the season.

Some Countries Have Unique Egg-Related Games  

While egg hunts are popular in the U.S., other countries have egg-related customs as well. For example, residents of Haux, France, celebrate by cooking a giant communal omelette on Easter Monday. It’s large enough to feed a crowd of over 1,000 people!

Chocolate Wasn’t Always An Easter Staple  

Believe it or not, Easter chocolate didn’t exist until the 19th century when the first molds for chocolate eggs were introduced in Germany and France. This sparked the tradition of gifting chocolate eggs, which later evolved into the candy-filled bonanza we see today.

Lamb Is A Traditional Easter Main Course  

Lamb has been a traditional Easter meal for centuries, dating back to Jewish Passover traditions. The lamb is said to symbolize Jesus as the “Lamb of God” in Christian teachings, connecting faith with celebration.

Americans Spend Over $18 Billion On Easter  

Easter is big business in the U.S., with consumers spending over $18 billion annually on everything from new outfits to festive decorations. But the category that reigns supreme? You guessed it, candy!

Celebrate Easter Your Way  

Easter is a time of joy, renewal, and, as we’ve learned, plenty of interesting traditions and facts! Whether you’re hiding colorful eggs, indulging in chocolate bunnies, or exploring cultural customs like egg rolling, the holiday gives everyone a chance to add a bit of sweetness to their spring.