Beyond the Hunt: Easter Fun for Everyone

A long time staple of the season, a good egg hunt is a lot of fun, especially for the little ones. But if you’re looking to mix it up this year with something a little craftier, or if you want to celebrate some other seasonal favorites (what about the bunnies and the flowers and the Peeps!?), then we have some ideas for you. It turns out there are plenty of ways to celebrate Easter and springtime that don’t involve mad dashing for hidden treats.

Photo: Great Country Farm

Great Country Farms Marshmallow Harvest
Great Country Farms promises that the Marshmallows are ripe and ready for the picking! During their Marshmallow Harvest, families can gather a handful of marshmallows off of the farm’s trees and then roast them over a bonfire. A wagon ride and a chance to see spring chicks and other baby animals rounds out this welcome celebration of spring.

When: April 2-3
Cost: $8-$10
18780 Foggy Bottom Rd. (Bluemont, Va)
Online: greatcountryfarms.com

Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard
Farms aren’t just for apple and pumpkin picking anymore. This year, check out Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard. The typical hayrides, giant slides, and playgrounds you love during the Pumpkin Festival are all there but with spring flair. Don’t miss the Rubber Duck Derby Race and a visit with the farm’s Country Bunny.

When: March 25-26, 28, and April 1-3; 9 am-4 pm
Cost: $9/kid; $7/adult

22200 Davis Mill Rd. (Germantown, Md)
Online: butlersorchard.com

Photo: Marjan Lazarevski via Flickr

Bunny Bonanza
Take some time before the Bunny’s big day to learn more about bunnies and how to care for them. Or just enjoy cuddling them for a few hours. Bunny Bonanza also has hands-on exhibits and crafts to enjoy.

When: March 23, 10 am–2 pm
Cost: Free with museum admission

Loudon Heritage Farm Museum
21668 Heritage Farm Ln. (Sterling, Va)
Online: heritagefarmmuseum.org

Peeps Day
Nothing continues the Easter festivities like a day dedicated to Peeps! From the National Harbor World Peeps Eating Championship (who knew there was such a thing!) to the 2016 Washington Post Peeps Diorama Contest (an annual favorite) finalists on display, plus kids activities, a dance contest and a screening of the movie Up, this is sure to be a great day at National Harbor.

When: April 2, 12 pm–4 pm
Cost: Free

National Harbor
165 Waterfront St. (National Harbor, Md)
Online: nationalharbor.com

Easter at ProBass shops
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, check out your local ProBass stores. This year, they’re hosting free events including craft making and a free 4×6 photo with the Easter Bunny.

When: Through March 27

Check your local ProBass store
Online: basspro.com

Photo: Owen and Aki via Flickr

Easter Brunch with the Little Ones
If a simple brunch on Easter morning is more your speed, there are plenty of options that also include a little fun for the kids. CoCo Sala’s Easter Chocolate Brunch includes a chocolate surprise for the kids. And at the Ritz Carlton in Pentagon City, the Easter Bunny Corner offers a full brunch of kid-friendly options plus a kite station, a chance to decorate Easter Eggs and a visit from the bunny himself.

CoCo Sala
929 F St., NW
Online: cocosala.com

Ritz Carlton Pentagon City
1250 S Hayes St. (Arlington, Va)
On;ine: ritzcarlton.com

Easter Monday at the Zoo
If you didn’t score tickets to the White House Easter Egg roll, then head to the Zoo on Monday morning for their traditional Easter Monday celebration. Field games, family-friendly activities and live demonstrations plus a visit from the Easter Panda will make this unlike any normal trip to the zoo.

When: March 28, 10 am–5 pm
Cost: Free

National Zoo
3001 Connecticut Ave., NW (Woodley Park)
Online: nationalzoo.si.edu

How will you and your little bunnies ring in Easter and springtime? Tell us in the comments section below. 

—Tricia Mirchandani