There are all sorts of ways to celebrate Easter Sunday.
There are the traditional holiday meals, pictures with the Easter Bunny followed by an Easter Egg Hunt, but think beyond the traditional celebrations.
Ready for it?
How about joining hundreds of others — strangers and friends — for a Bunny Hop down South Street? While it may sound crazy, this fun-for-all activity is a big part of a longstanding Philly holiday tradition.
It’s one of the many highlights to the 86th Annual Easter Promenade, where a crowd of thousands will fill the streets — many wearing bonnets and bunny ears — for a memorable celebration. The parade, which kicks off at 12:30 p.m., will start at the corner of Passyunk Avenue and South Street and continue down to Headhouse Square on Second Street.
Henri David, who has been a fixture of the parade for more than two decades, is back as the master of ceremonies, which includes leading the Bunny Hop down South Street,
“It’s just so much fun, and it’s for all ages. We get all of the families involved,” he said.
Like next month’s Kentucky Derby, fashion plays a huge role in this annual tradition. No, Ryan Seacrest is not going to be standing at the corner of Second and South asking people “Who are you wearing?” Instead, children and adults can enter to be crowned Best Dressed, Best South Street Razzle Dazzle or Best Easter Bonnet. Even pets can win big if he or she is looking spiffy. Celebrity judges will announce the winners in 12 categories (Best Dressed Little Boy/Girl, Young Boy/Girl, Teen Boy/Girl, Woman, Man, Family, Pet, plus Best Easter Bonnet and South Street Razzle Dazzle). Loud and colorful attire is encouraged.
As the master of ceremonies, David looks forward to dressing the part. He said his outfit will be “large, fun and silly.”
“I want people in the last row to be able to see me,” he said. “I want them to say, ‘Who is that guy and what is he wearing.’”
This free family event will also include special appearances by the Easter Bunny, Mr. and Mrs. Cottontail and others. Patrons will also be able to enjoy live music, candy and other egg-citing surprises. Those looking to do the brunch thing, plenty of the Headhouse Square area eateries will have special menus. David is one of many who is looking forward to another Easter Sunday on South Street.
“I love it,” he said. “I think with Easter, more than anything else, it’s the kids smiling from ear to ear.”
For more information on the Easter Promenade, including restaurant information, visit southstreet.com or call 215–413–3713.
