The Celtic Roots of Easter

In Celtic culture many holidays and celebrations revolve around the seasons, sun, and moon. The Celts celebrated the Spring Equinox. Eggs were decorated and associated with spring rebirth and the hare or rabbit symbolized fertility. These symbolized the coming out of winter and the rebirth of the vegetation and animals that the Celts relied on for survival.

The Spring Equinox is when day and night are equal, and the days begin to get longer. The soil is warming up for planting and livestock are having their young. It is a joyous time and celebrations were laden with sweet foods and drinks. Our modern Easter is based on these traditions.

Easter varies from year to year, and corresponds with the first Sunday following the full moon after the Spring equinox. Interesting if you ask me! According to the New Unger’s Bible Dictionary: “The word Easter is of Saxon origin, Eastra, the Celtic Goddess of spring, in whose honor sacrifices were offered about Passover time each year. By the eighth century Anglo-Saxon had adopted the name to designate the celebration of Christ’s resurrection”.

Regardless of your own belief system, Easter is a great time to celebrate spring with decorated eggs hunts, chocolate bunnies, and most importantly, family and friends. From the folks here at the Randle Round-Up and the Celtic Elk Campground, we wish you a fabulous Easter and hope you enjoy our wonderful sunny, snowy, rainy spring weather!