Spring was in the air last Thursday as the annual Newport Egg Hunt took off, with children looking eagerly in bushes for bright-colored eggs filled with surprises of chocolate and trinkets.

The fun-filled event at the waterside was directed by Emily Browne, assistant marketing manager at Newport.

The playground was shut down at 1 p.m. to the public so the eggs could be strategically placed. “We were placing the eggs in bushes, grass, the play set, when we noticed two little boys in the bushes watching us; they were like little Tom Sawyers. It was funny to see them from the distance just sitting there. We had them moved outside behind the gate until the festivities started,” Browne said.

The egg hunt, according to Browne, is very popular for the residents and only open to Newport. When the doors opened at 2 p.m. to children running with their Easter baskets, there were at least 250 kids who combed the area searching for the prize. The stampede of children was accompanied by parents.

“It means a lot to be out in the community with other children and parents, because it’s a time to just kick back and enjoy the gorgeous weather and socialize,” said Samytra Chatman, Newport resident and parent.

Her three-year-old daughter, Sanii Chatman, who was waiting on line to meet the Easter Bunny, said, “I like Easter Bunny. He likes to play with my toys and brings me presents.”

Egg hunt is one of many activities

At the gazebo where the children waited anxiously to sit on the Easter Bunny’s lap, juice and cookies were also being served. “We have a lot of other activities planned for Newport during the year, but the egg hunt is special, and we also have a balloon man making designs for the kids today. It’s just a community feeling to have everyone together, and it’s how we foster the community,” Browne said.

The Flores family spent the day together at the playground, which just goes to show that age is not a factor.

“I’m waiting to meet the Easter Bunny with my sister, because it’s time well spent with my family and my aunt,” 12-year-old Vanessa Flores said. “I don’t think you’re ever too old to enjoy the Easter Bunny.”

Aunt Nancy Flores from Washington added, “Never too old for activities like the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt. It’s a time for families to get together and celebrate.”

“This is going to be an annual tradition for us,” said Deepshikha Anand, “because we want to introduce Easter traditions into our cultures.”

For more information about Newport events, go to www.newportrentals.com.

Sonia Owchariw may be reached at editorial@hudsonreporter.com.