Hopping into Summer with Bugs Bunny Day at the Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve!

That's right, folks! We here at the Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve are celebrating the unofficial (yet absolutely delightful) holiday of Bugs Bunny Day! But why, you ask? Well, buckle up, because we're about to delve into some delightful rabbit lore that goes way beyond fluffy tails and carrot cravings.

Across cultures and throughout history, rabbits have been symbols of fertility, luck, trickery, and even the moon! In Celtic mythology, the hare is associated with the lunar deity Epona, a powerful horse goddess. Epona's hares were said to be messengers, zipping back and forth between the earthly realm and the Otherworld. Here at the Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve, we can't help but be reminded of the elusive Jackalopes – rabbit-jackalope hybrids whispered to roam the American Southwest. Perhaps these creatures are descendants of Epona's otherworldly messengers?

Speaking of trickery, how can we forget the iconic Bugs Bunny? This wascally wabbit has been outsmarting hunters and moviegoers alike for nearly a century. Bugs Bunny's association with luck and cleverness perfectly aligns with rabbit symbolism in many cultures. In fact, in some folktales, rabbits are seen as guardians, using their cunning to protect their burrows and those who live within them. Here at the Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve, we take inspiration from Bugs by using our knowledge and wit to protect the wonderful creatures who call our preserve home.

So, how are we celebrating Bugs Bunny Day? Throughout the day, we'll have:

• "Rabbit" Yoga: Loosen up and channel your inner bunny with a fun, springtime-themed yoga session suitable for all ages!

• "Earp for the Unusual" Scavenger Hunt: Grab your carrots (or kale, we don't judge) and hop to it as you search the preserve for clues about some of our more extraordinary residents.

• Story Time with Miss Penny: Nestled under the big oak tree, join Miss Penny for a delightful tale about a mischievous rabbit who outsmarts a grumpy old fox.

• "Bunnyfication Station": Get your face painted or take a photo with some adorable (and completely non-cryptid) bunnies!

We here at the Haberdashery Cryptid Preserve believe in celebrating the wonder and mystery of the natural world, and that includes the fascinating symbolism of the rabbit. So come on down for Bugs Bunny Day – a day of fun, facts, and maybe even a glimpse of something extraordinary!