The association of bunnies and eggs with Easter comes from a mix of pagan symbols, Christian traditions, and folklore. Bunnies symbolize fertility and new life because of their prolific breeding, making them mascots of spring and renewal since ancient times. Eggs also symbolize fertility and new life, and early Christians linked eggs to the resurrection of Jesus; eggs were often decorated and eaten after the fasting period of Lent. The Easter Bunny tradition likely originated with German immigrants in the 18th century who told stories of an egg-laying hare bringing colorful eggs to children, blending these symbols of fertility and rebirth into a fun Easter celebration with egg hunts and baskets today.