Hop Into Easter Fun: Spring Break Events Leading Up to Easter in BC

Spring is a magical time in British Columbia, with blooming flowers, longer days, and plenty of family-friendly events leading up to Easter. Easter traditions in BC are diverse and vibrant, reflecting the province’s rich cultural tapestry. The tradition of using an Easter basket to hold various candies and treats, such as chocolate eggs and marshmallow rabbits, is a beloved custom during this holiday. Whether you’re looking for egg hunts, craft fairs, or opportunities to meet the Easter Bunny, BC offers something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best Easter activities and events happening across the province this spring. The celebration of Easter also commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a central tenet of the Christian faith.

1. Easter Eggstravaganza at VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver

VanDusen Botanical Garden transforms into an Easter wonderland each year, offering a picturesque setting for families to celebrate. Children can participate in a classic egg hunt, enjoy live entertainment, and engage in Easter-themed crafts. Don’t forget to take a photo with the Easter Bunny before exploring the beautiful spring blooms. Tickets often sell out, so book early. The Easter Vigil is also a significant part of the Easter celebrations for many families, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ and its profound theological implications for believers. Many families also attend an Easter Sunday service to further commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

2. Big Easter Run, Jericho Beach, Vancouver

Combine fitness and fun at the Big Easter Run in Vancouver. This family-friendly event invites participants of all ages to dress up in bunny ears and run or walk along scenic Jericho Beach. After the run, many participants enjoy an Easter brunch at nearby cafes and restaurants. With a 1K Bunny Hop for kids and 5K and 10K options for adults, it’s a great way to stay active while enjoying the festive spirit. Post-run, enjoy treats and take part in Easter-themed activities. Easter Monday is a public holiday in many countries, often celebrated with family gatherings and outdoor activities.

3. Whistler’s Easter Festivities

Whistler’s Easter morning starts with exciting activities for families. Many families start their day with an Easter Sunday service before heading to the festivities. Whistler’s pedestrian village buzzes with excitement during Easter weekend. Families can look forward to egg hunts, face painting, and live performances. 

4. Victoria’s Easter Petting Zoo and Market

Victoria’s Beacon Hill Park hosts an annual Easter celebration featuring a pop-up petting zoo, perfect for younger children. Many families also attend an Easter Sunday service before visiting the petting zoo and market. The market offers a variety of treats, including chocolate Easter bunnies. After meeting adorable bunnies, chicks, and lambs, browse the local Easter market for handcrafted gifts and treats. The park’s blooming gardens make for a lovely spring outing.

5. The Great Kamloops Easter Egg Hunts

Head to Kamloops for one of the largest Easter egg hunts in the Interior. Many families enjoy an Easter brunch at local restaurants before heading to the egg hunt. This event, held at Riverside Park, includes thousands of hidden eggs, live music, and plenty of prizes. Food trucks and local vendors round out the experience, making it a fun day out for all ages.

Easter Sunday marks the culmination of Holy Week, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ with events like the Great Kamloops Easter Egg Hunt.

6. Kelowna’s Easter Treat Trail

Downtown Kelowna invites families to explore its Easter Treat Trail, a delightful scavenger hunt where children collect treats from participating businesses. Kelowna’s Easter Treat Trail is a beloved part of the city’s Easter traditions, bringing families together for a day of fun and community spirit. This free event encourages community engagement while providing a sweet adventure for kids. Be sure to explore the vibrant local shops and cafes along the way. Holy Week is a time for community engagement and spiritual reflection, culminating in events like the Easter Treat Trail.

7. Spring Break Farm Fun in Abbotsford

Spring Break at Taves Family Farms in Abbotsford is the perfect lead-up to Easter. Many families start their day with an Easter brunch before heading to the farm for a day of fun. Easter week at Taves Family Farms is filled with fun activities leading up to the holiday. Enjoy hayrides, meet farm animals, and try your hand at Easter crafts. Don’t miss their Easter Egg Hunt, where kids can search for colorful eggs hidden throughout the farm. Seasonal treats like fresh apple cider and baked goods add to the festive vibe.

8. Golden Egg Hunt at Grouse Mountain

For a high-altitude Easter experience, Grouse Mountain’s Golden Egg Hunt is a must. The Golden Egg Hunt is one of the many cherished Easter traditions at Grouse Mountain, attracting families from all over. This event is one of the many leading up to Easter, starting with Palm Sunday. Take a scenic gondola ride to the mountaintop, where children can search for golden eggs hidden in the snow. Pair the event with a visit to the mountaintop wildlife refuge or a meal at the cozy chalet for a memorable family day.

9. Community Easter Celebrations Across BC

Many local communities host Easter parades, pancake breakfasts, and craft fairs. These events are a testament to the rich Easter traditions that thrive in communities across BC. Check out events in your area to support local businesses and enjoy a more intimate celebration. From Prince George to Nanaimo, BC’s communities embrace the Easter spirit in unique ways.

10. Easter Parades and Festivals

Easter parades and festivals are a vibrant and joyous way to celebrate the Easter holiday. Across British Columbia, communities come alive with colorful parades featuring decorated floats, marching bands, and, of course, the Easter Bunny. These parades are a delightful spectacle, bringing together families and friends to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

In addition to parades, many towns and cities host Easter festivals that offer a variety of activities for all ages. From Easter egg hunts to face painting and crafts, these festivals are a fantastic way to get into the Easter spirit. Children can search for hidden Easter eggs, meet the Easter Bunny, and participate in fun games and activities.

Some popular Easter festivals in BC include:

• The Vancouver Easter Parade and Festival: This event features a lively parade with colorful floats and live music, followed by a festival with food vendors, crafts, and Easter egg hunts.

• The Victoria Easter Festival: Held in Beacon Hill Park, this festival offers a petting zoo, live performances, and a market with local treats and crafts.

• The Kelowna Easter Celebration: This event includes an Easter egg hunt, face painting, and a visit from the Easter Bunny, making it a fun-filled day for families.

These parades and festivals are a wonderful way to celebrate the Easter holiday, bringing communities together in a spirit of joy and festivity.

11. Easter Egg Decorating Workshops

Easter egg decorating workshops are a delightful way to unleash your creativity and celebrate the Easter holiday. Egg decorating is one of the many cherished Easter traditions that families enjoy together. Across British Columbia, various communities and organizations host these workshops, offering participants the chance to learn different techniques for decorating Easter eggs. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced artist, these workshops provide a fun and engaging environment to create unique and personalized Easter eggs.

Participants can explore a variety of decorating techniques, such as:

• Dyeing: Use food coloring or commercial egg dyes to create vibrant colors and intricate patterns.

• Painting: Employ watercolors or acrylics to craft detailed designs and artistic masterpieces.

• Decoupage: Apply cut-out images or decorative paper to eggs, creating beautiful collages.

• Stenciling: Utilize stencils to produce precise and intricate designs.

In addition to egg decorating, many workshops offer a range of Easter-themed activities, including:

• Easter Egg Hunts: Children can search for hidden eggs filled with candy or small toys, adding an element of excitement to the event.

• Easter Basket-Making: Create charming baskets to hold your decorated eggs and other Easter treats.

• Easter Crafts: Engage in other festive crafts, such as making bunny masks or Easter bonnets.

These workshops are a fantastic way to spend quality time with family and friends while celebrating the Easter holiday. So, gather your loved ones and join in the fun of decorating Easter eggs and participating in festive activities.

12. Meet the Easter Bunny Events

Meeting the Easter Bunny is a cherished tradition that brings joy and excitement to children and families during the Easter holiday. Meeting the Easter Bunny is one of the most beloved Easter traditions for children. Across British Columbia, malls, shopping centers, and community organizations host Meet the Easter Bunny events, where kids can interact with the beloved character and partake in a variety of festive activities.

At these events, children can enjoy:

• Photo Opportunities: Capture the magic of Easter with photos alongside the Easter Bunny. These keepsakes make for wonderful memories.

• Easter Egg Hunts: Participate in thrilling egg hunts, searching for hidden eggs filled with candy or small toys.

• Easter Crafts: Get creative with Easter-themed crafts, such as making bunny masks or decorating Easter bonnets.

• Storytime: Listen to enchanting Easter-themed stories and books, adding a touch of literary fun to the celebration.

Many Meet the Easter Bunny events also feature additional activities to enhance the experience:

• Face Painting: Kids can have their faces painted with delightful Easter-themed designs.

• Balloon Twisting: Enjoy the artistry of balloon twisting, creating fun shapes and animals.

• Easter-Themed Games: Engage in playful games like Pin the Tail on the Bunny, adding to the festive atmosphere.

These events are often free or low-cost, making them accessible to families looking to celebrate the Easter holiday in a fun and memorable way. Don’t miss the chance to meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy a day filled with joy and laughter.

13. Easter Sunday Events in BC

Easter Sunday is a joyous occasion in British Columbia, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a central tenet of the Christian faith. Many families start their Easter Sunday with a special Easter brunch before heading to the events. Numerous events and activities take place across the province. Communities come alive with vibrant Easter egg hunts, parades, and festivals, while churches and other places of worship hold special services to commemorate this significant Christian holiday. Some popular Easter Sunday events in BC include:

• The Vancouver Easter Parade: This lively parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and, of course, the Easter Bunny. It’s a delightful spectacle that brings the community together in celebration.

• The Victoria Easter Egg Hunt: Held in the picturesque Beacon Hill Park, this event invites families to search for hidden Easter eggs amidst blooming flowers and lush greenery.

• The Surrey Easter Festival: This festival is a hub of activity with live music, food vendors, and a giant Easter egg hunt that promises fun for all ages.

• The Kelowna Easter Eggstravaganza: Featuring an egg hunt, face painting, and a visit from the Easter Bunny, this event is a must-visit for families looking to celebrate Easter Sunday in style.

14. Easter Treats: Local Delicacies and Sweets

Easter treats are an integral part of the Easter celebration, adding a sweet touch to the festivities. Many families enjoy an Easter brunch featuring these delicious treats. In British Columbia, local bakeries and candy stores offer a delightful array of Easter-themed delicacies that cater to various tastes and traditions.

Some popular Easter treats include:

• Hot Cross Buns: These sweet, spiced buns marked with a cross are traditionally enjoyed on Good Friday and are a beloved Easter staple.

• Easter Eggs: Decorated eggs, often filled with candy or small toys, are a classic symbol of Easter. They come in various forms, from intricately painted eggs to those made of chocolate.

• Chocolate Easter Bunnies: These delicious chocolate figures are a favorite among children and adults alike, often filled with additional treats like nuts or candy.

• Springerle: A traditional German cookie, often flavored with anise or lemon, adding a touch of European tradition to the Easter celebration.

In addition to these classics, many local establishments offer special Easter-themed goodies, such as:

• Peeps: Marshmallow candies shaped like bunnies or chicks, adding a whimsical touch to Easter baskets.

• Cadbury Eggs: Chocolate eggs filled with creamy or caramel centers, a popular treat during the Easter season.

• Jelly Beans: Colorful, chewy candies in a variety of flavors, perfect for filling Easter eggs and baskets.

Local bakeries and candy stores also create unique Easter-themed treats, including:

• Easter-Themed Cookies: Beautifully decorated cookies featuring Easter designs, perfect for gifting or enjoying with family.

• Easter Cakes: Festive cakes adorned with Easter decorations, ideal for celebrating with loved ones.

• Easter Chocolates: Handcrafted chocolates shaped like bunnies, eggs, and other Easter symbols, offering a gourmet touch to the holiday.

These delectable treats add to the joy of Easter celebrations, making them a must-have for any Easter gathering. Be sure to visit your local bakery or candy store to indulge in these delightful Easter goodies.

15. Easter Volunteer Opportunities: Giving Back to the Community

Easter is a time of giving and generosity, and many BC communities offer volunteer opportunities to give back to those in need. Volunteering is one of the many Easter traditions that bring communities together in the spirit of giving. Volunteering during the Easter holiday is a wonderful way to spread joy and make a positive impact. Some popular Easter volunteer opportunities include:

• Helping Out at Local Food Banks and Soup Kitchens: Assist in preparing and serving meals to those in need, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty Easter meal.

• Participating in Easter Egg Hunts and Events for Kids with Disabilities: Help create inclusive and accessible Easter celebrations for all children.

• Visiting Seniors and Shut-Ins at Local Nursing Homes and Hospitals: Brighten someone’s day with a visit, bringing Easter cheer to those who may be alone.

• Helping Out at Local Animal Shelters and Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers: Lend a hand in caring for animals and supporting the important work of these organizations.

• Participating in Community Clean-Up Events and Park Cleanups: Join your neighbors in beautifying local parks and public spaces, making them enjoyable for everyone.

16. Easter Safety Tips for Families

Easter can be a fun and festive holiday, but it’s also important to prioritize safety. Ensuring safety during Easter traditions is crucial for a fun and worry-free celebration. Here are some Easter safety tips for families to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration:

• Supervise Children During Easter Egg Hunts and Other Activities: Keep a close eye on kids to ensure they stay safe while having fun.

• Use Plastic Eggs and Other Safe Materials for Easter Egg Hunts: Avoid using real eggs that can break and cause messes or injuries.

• Avoid Using Small Toys or Other Choking Hazards in Easter Baskets: Choose age-appropriate items to prevent choking risks.

• Check Easter Candy and Treats for Allergens and Choking Hazards: Be mindful of any food allergies and ensure treats are safe for all children.

• Plan Ahead for Easter Travel and Follow All Traffic Safety Rules and Regulations: Ensure a safe journey by adhering to traffic laws and planning your route in advance.

By following this plan, the new sections will seamlessly blend with the existing content, providing readers with a comprehensive guide to Easter events and activities in British Columbia.

Tips for Making the Most of Easter Events in BC

• Plan Ahead: Popular events often require pre-registration, so check event websites and secure your tickets early. Understanding local Easter traditions can enhance your experience at these events.

• Dress for the Weather: Spring weather in BC can be unpredictable. Bring layers and waterproof gear to stay comfortable.

• Bring a Basket: Many egg hunts encourage kids to bring their own baskets for collecting eggs.

• Support Local: Many events feature local vendors and artisans. Buying from them helps support the community.

Celebrate Spring in BC

From egg hunts in lush gardens to mountaintop adventures, British Columbia is brimming with Easter fun. Easter traditions in BC offer a unique blend of cultural and festive activities. Gather your loved ones and hop into the festivities this spring break to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Which Easter event are you most excited about?