A beloved tradition is returning to light up little ones’ lives for Easter at the Batawa Community Centre this Saturday.
This Saturday, April 4 will mark the 23rd edition of the Batawa Lions’ Easter egg hunt event – and to sweeten the pot, all the festivities will also translate to help for residents in need throughout the community.
Once again this year, the cherished community tradition has brought together more than 50 volunteers and dozens of businesses, sponsors and more to pull it all off and maintain an affordable Easter outing for local families.
Co-chair of the Batawa Lions Club Easter egg hunt Heather Bonsell describes the gathering as a true “community event.”
Festivities will start at 9 a.m. and run until noon Saturday at the Batawa Community Centre (which is located at 81 Plant St.)
Bonsell said there’s activities and entertainment for kids of all ages and families, too.
Here’s what families need to know about costs.
The $30 is for a family of four, but there are other options.
If you’re just looking to feed the kids, it’s $8. For adults, the pancake breakfast cost is $10.
The cost to take part just in the hunt is $5, but this fee is waived when a child’s breakfast is purchased. All other activities are open to all as long as supplies last.
And through all the funds raised Saturday, the Lions are hoping to continue making a difference in the community when it comes to tackling poverty, homelessness and food insecurity, explained Bonsell.
“It all goes back into the community – everything we do is focused on making our community better,” continued Bonsell.
Now, back to Saturday’s agenda. What can families expect?
Kids love it, and they often come with their own decorated baskets for the hunt and are a lot of fun to watch, too, noted Bonsell.
In addition to the pancake breakfast and two egg hunts, there’s also face painting, balloon art, a petting zoo, alpacas, and more. Fire trucks and police car fun will also be part of the lineup.
The egg hunts are divided into age groups: Those five-years-old and younger start their hunts at 10 a.m., while kids ages six to 12 start at about 11:15 a.m. Organizers have noted that participants are encouraged to arrive and register early as supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
This year’s event is again being made possible through a lot of collaboration, including with help from the Trenton Lions Club and Batawa Development Corporation.
And the list doesn’t end there.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
