Easter is fast approaching.
For Christians, it's a time to celebrate the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. For others, it's a time to hunt for colorful eggs left by the Easter Bunny.
This year, Easter will be celebrated on April 5.
The colorful Easter eggs you might decorate with your family are symbols of new life and rebirth. Ancient Christian communities in Mesopotamia would stain eggs red to represent the blood of Christ, which was shed at the crucifixion, NBC Chicago reports. The eggs also signify the empty tomb of Jesus.
As for the Easter Bunny, its origins are not necessarily rooted in Christianity. The exact origins of the anthropomorphic rabbit are unclear. However, since ancient times, the hare has been said to represent rebirth, according to Smithsonian Magazine.
Here's a rundown of Easter-themed events in Stark County that are free and open to the public unless noted otherwise:
A free YMCA Bunny Twisting Party will be from 1 to 3 p.m. March 14 at Belden Village Mall Center Court, 4230 Belden Village St. NW. Join the Easter Bunny for balloon twisting and games. RSVP at https://beldenvillagemall.com/event/bunny-twisting-party.
Photos with the Easter Bunny at Belden Village Mall, 4230 Belden Village St. NW, running from March 12 through April 4. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday in the Center Court. Reservations are recommended but not required. Walk-ups are welcome. For RSVP and pricing, visit https://amusemattebookbunny.com/belden-village.
Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny at Belden Village Mall, 4230 Belden Village St. NW, will be from 6:30 to 8 p.m. March 22 in the Center Court. Walk-ups only.
Soothing Bunny at Belden Village Mall will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. March 21 in the Center Court. Sensory-friendly photo sessions are available with the Easter Bunny before the mall opens to the public. Music will be off, lighting will be low, and crowds will be minimal. Reservations are required; call the mall office at 330-492-7779.