Popular Easter symbols such as the Easter bunny and egg tree were introduced to American folklore by the German settlers who arrived in the Pennsylvania Dutch country during the 1700s. Gradually American people took to crafts such as egg and Easter tree decoration. The book 'Egg Tree' by Katherine Milhous was credited with popularizing the custom of egg tree decoration in USA.
As in many other countries, pre-Lent carnivals are part of Easter celebration in the USA. On "Shrove Tuesday," the day before Ash Wednesday, the famous Mardi Gras (French for "Fat Tuesday") carnival is held each year in New Orleans. It features colorful parades, jazz bands and parties where everybody dresses up and joins in the fun. Groups of people called krewes prepare decorated floats with a Mardi Gras king and queen.
Easter in US is also a time to gorge on special Easter special foods such as baked ham, potatoes and vegetables.
