As you amble along the streets you can see on display in shop-windows dazzling arrays of rainbow-coloured eggs that herald the imminent arrival of Easter. But have you ever noticed that many of the things appearing at Easter time are related to Spring or new birth? The egg is an example: it symbolizes Spring and the start of new life and, from a religious point of view, the Resurrection of Christ. The rabbit is another example, as it breeds so well and is so full of the power of life. Then there are colourful flowers flaunting their luscious beauty - the lily being the most popular.

Chocolate is the most popular Easter present. In France, it was once reported that, during the festival period, up to 30,000 tonnes had been bought and each person put away half a kilo on average. Special bread, adorned with various Easter symbols, is also very popular, whereas lamb and ham are the traditional meat dishes.

Chocolate is the most popular Easter present. In France, it was once reported that, during the festival period, up to 30,000 tonnes had been bought and each person put away half a kilo on average. Special bread, adorned with various Easter symbols, is also very popular, whereas lamb and ham are the traditional meat dishes.

The Easter Parade has become an important part of the festival. Previously people would play the role of a historical figure of the Christian Church and proceed barefoot wearing a long robe and holding a cross so as to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ. These days we tend to see clowns in cowboy clothes on stilts or people pretending to be cartoon characters. The carnival atmosphere is getting stronger and stronger whilst the feeling of religion is getting weaker and weaker.