Pagan Roots of Easter

Did you know the Christian Holiday Easter actually has Pagan roots? The word Easter comes from the Pagan word Eostre or Ostara who was the Goddess of fertility, sunrise, and the dawn. Apparently her sacred objects were the rabbit and the egg and her feast was celebrated on the Vernal Equinox to acknowledge rebirth. Stories were told how this Goddess would bring candy and treats to children. Ultimately the word "Easter" also correlates with the word "East" which is the direction the sun rises. Christians adopted this Pagan tradition to most likely help make the transition from Paganism to Christianity more smooth. Most Christian holidays actually have Pagan roots and revolve around the celebration of the seasons (think how close Christmas is to the winter solstice...).