By Bill Gelman
South Philadelphia
April 1
Easter Promenade
There is going to be some bunny-hoppin’ fun on South Street this weekend. Put on your Sunday’s best for the 87th annual Easter Promenade. Walk down South Street with the whole family during this large-scale Philly tradition. Enjoy Easter treats, live music from the Philadelphia Freedom Band and other egg-cellent Easter fun. Children, adults, even furry friends can enter to be crowned Best Dressed, Best South Street Razzle Dazzle or Best Easter Bonnet. 12:30 p.m. Free. Passyunk Avenue/South Street down to Headhouse Square. southstreet.com/easter-promenade.
Through April 8
S.E.Y.A.A. Easter Carnival
A Jersey Shore vibe has arrived on Packer Avenue. This annual event is sure to provide a few hours of affordable family fun, and you don’t have to worry about paying those tolls on the Garden State Parkway. Wristbands needed to enjoy the rides. $1.25 for single ticket/$25 for wristband. Times vary. 701 Packer. Ave. houghtoncarnival.com.
March 31
Egg Hunt and Petting Zoo
Who’s ready to hunt for Easter eggs? Kids will have a blast decorating their own bags and searching for eggs, some with golden ticket prizes. There will be separate egg hunting times for ages 4 and under, ages 5 and 6, and ages 7-12. There will also be a petting zoo! 10am-1pm. Free. East Passyunk Community Center, 1025 Mifflin St. eastpassyunkcommunitycenter.org.
Around the City
Ongoing
Franklin Square
The eight-acre, public square has all the elements to make for a terrific outing: a miniature golf course, classic carousel, burger joint, storytelling bench, picnic area and more. Times vary. Free admission. Prices vary for attractions. 200 N. 6th St. historicphiladelphia.org/franklin-square/what-to-see.
March 31-April 1
Easter Bunny Brunch at the Philadelphia Zoo
Need a great way to celebrate the holiday and the start of spring. Everyone’s favorite floppy-eared creature, the Easter Bunny, will be hangin’ at the Philadelphia Zoo, too. Enjoy a brunch buffet, followed by an Easter egg hunt and photos with Bunny. Other activities include crafts for children of all ages and mingling with live animals. There’s a lot HOPpening at Philadelphia Zoo. 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. $27.99-$42.99. Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Ave. philadelphiazoo.org/explore.
Road Trips
Spring-a-Palooza
Through April 15
Despite the remaining snow from last week’s storm still melting, spring is officially here. So why not pack the bags, bathing suit included, for a fun- and splash-filled day in the Poconos? More specifically Great Wolf Lodge? The resort is sporting a seasonal vibe with its annual Spring-a-Palooza celebration. We’re talking spring picnics and bubble dance parties in the Grand Lobby along with character-inspired flower gardens and more. Great Wolf Lodge is partnering with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to generate funds and raise awareness to help end childhood cancer. No matter what season it is, spending a few hours at the indoor water park — complete with some wild and crazy water slides — is a must-do. greatwolf.com.
Escape to Cape May
Through April 6
“On the Way to Cape May” …
It was one of those catchy, sing-along tune made famous by South Philly native Al Alberts, the lead singer of the Four Aces. Some may have fond memories of humming along while traveling south to Cape May, of course. Congress Hall, also known as the summer White House back in the day, has a full slate of spring break events open to hotel guests and the public. The Hunt for the Golden Egg, Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and Kids Can Cook, Too are just a few of the activities. caperesorts.com.
