Easter is almost here and that means it’s nearly time for the most sacred of traditions, at least in some younger circles: the Easter egg hunt.

Fortunately for local families, the township has one of the biggest events around, as the St. Jacobs Optimist Club puts on a truly special event each year at the Riverside Meadows Park.

“It’s a lot of fun for kids and young families and we get a lot of people out to the event,” organizer Bob Wilbur said. “I think this is our tenth year running this event and we’re looking forward to another great day. Hopefully the weather will cooperate and it’ll give the community a chance to get out and have some fun.”

Set for April 4 at 10 a.m. the egg hunt is split up amongst a variety of age groups. It’s an exciting time for the little ones, as they will be dashing around trying to snag colourful plastic eggs containing prizes and chocolates.

“It’s a bit of a free-for-all and it is very exciting,” Wilbur said. “What I really enjoy is the anticipation and the countdown. And so we have all of the different areas marked off with tape and stakes all the kids all line up and are raring to go. Sometimes we’ll use a whistle to start things off but we’ve also had a miniature fire engine there with its siren in the past.

It’s a good time for parents as well, Wilbur said.

“What I’ve noticed in the past is that there are a lot of young families who come out and it’s a nice social gathering. A lot of people hang around and visit with their neighbours and friends and it’s a good morning all around.”

The event is free and the Easter Bunny will be on hand for greeting and photos. The Breslau Recreation Association will also host an egg hunt at Breslau Memorial Park at 1 p.m. on April 4; cost is $2 per child.