Where did Easter baskets come from? A sweet history (and better ways to fill them)

Easter baskets have become a joyful staple of the holiday, brimming with treats, toys, and surprises that kids eagerly discover on Easter morning. But behind the colorful grass and chocolate bunnies is a tradition shaped by centuries of history, symbolism, and evolving customs.

In 2026, Easter falls on April 5, making now the perfect moment to rethink what goes into your child’s basket. While candy still has its place, more families are embracing a mix of fun and functional items that last well beyond the holiday.

Where did the Easter basket come from?

For Christians, Easter marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While baskets and bunnies don’t appear in biblical texts, they’ve become deeply tied to the celebration over time.

One widely shared theory traces the Easter Bunny back to ancient spring festivals honoring Eostre, a goddess associated with fertility and renewal. Offerings were often placed in baskets and included eggs or seedlings, both symbols of new life. The rabbit, known for its rapid reproduction, became a natural emblem of fertility.

Another origin story comes from 18th-century German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania. They told their children about the “Osterhase,” a magical hare that laid colored eggs. Children would prepare nests — sometimes in baskets or hats — for the hare to fill.

The basket itself may also have roots in early Catholic traditions. By the 12th century, it was common in parts of Europe to bring baskets of food to church to be blessed on Holy Saturday — a practice that still exists in some Eastern European cultures today.

How candy became part of the tradition

Chocolate wasn’t always part of Easter, but once it arrived, it quickly became central.

European confectioners began crafting chocolate eggs in the early 1800s. In 1842, Cadbury introduced its first “eating chocolate,” and by 1875, the first chocolate Easter eggs were produced. The launch of Cadbury’s Dairy Milk chocolate eggs in 1905 helped solidify chocolate as a seasonal must-have.

Other sweets followed. Jelly beans became associated with Easter in the 1930s thanks to their egg-like shape. And marshmallow Peeps, now a cultural icon, have been a staple for decades.

Today, Easter ranks as the third biggest candy holiday in the U.S., trailing only the winter holidays and Halloween. About 90% of Easter baskets still include chocolate or candy, even as many parents try to strike a balance with less sugar.

Who gets an Easter basket?

While Easter baskets are most commonly given to children, there’s no age limit on the tradition. Teens, adults, and even grandparents can enjoy a thoughtfully assembled basket. It’s less about age and more about the gesture.

Rethinking what goes inside

Candy may be classic, but it doesn’t have to do all the heavy lifting.

A modern Easter basket can be just as exciting, if not more so, when it includes items kids will actually use in the weeks and months ahead. Think of it as a mix of seasonal prep, creative play, and a little indulgence.

Here are some fresh ideas to consider:

For outdoor play

• Sidewalk chalk
• Jump ropes
• Bubbles
• Gardening tools or gloves

For creativity

• Coloring books
• Sticker sets
• Craft kits
• Washable markers or paints

For everyday use

• Fun socks or pajamas
• Spring or summer outfits
• Sandals or swimsuits

For quiet time

• Storybooks
• Small puzzles
• Activity pads

And yes, a little sweet treat

• A chocolate bunny
• Jelly beans
• Marshmallow candies

Where to shop without overspending

You don’t need to break the bank to create a memorable basket. Affordable finds are everywhere—from big-box stores like Target and Walmart to discount spots like Dollar Tree and Five Below.

Mixing practical items you already plan to buy with a few fun extras is often the easiest and smartest approach.

Peeps, the delicious marshmallow treats, are an Easter holiday staple. Learn how the colorful chicks and bunnies are made.

Some stand-out items

Hatchin’ Yoshi from The Super Mario Galaxy Movie $49-60