For Christians, Easter is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ — and arguably the most important date on the religious calendar.
Easter marks the end of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and reflection. The day holds the promise of victory over death, a new life and the forgiveness of sins.
Here are five little-known facts about the Easter holiday.
1. Easter is on a different date every year. It’s the first Sunday after the full moon after the spring equinox. (This year’s was March 20.) Dates for Easter fall between March 22 and April 25.
2. The name Easter comes from Eostre (Ostara in German), a goddess of dawn and east.
3. Eggs are the symbol of fertility and rebirth and have been exchanged in honor of spring for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Persians and Egyptians.
4. Lore says if it rains on Easter morning it will rain for the next seven days.
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