Family Fun from Easter Egg Hunts to Celebrating After Dark

As Easter approaches in April, Australians begin to prepare for one of the most anticipated holidays of the year. From colorful festivals to family-friendly fairs, the Easter season brings a mix of religious observance and vibrant community events that unite people across the nation. With Easter Sunday falling on April 20th this year, festivities will span the entire long weekend, offering a perfect opportunity for families, tourists, and locals alike to enjoy everything from lively carnivals to serene nighttime activities. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the key Easter events and festivities across Australia, showcasing the spirit of this joyful time of year.

Across Australia, Easter is synonymous with community gatherings, where markets, fairs, and carnivals spring up in various cities and towns. These events offer a perfect blend of local culture, food, and entertainment that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you are looking for a laid-back day with artisan goods or an action-packed day of rides and games, there’s something for everyone during Easter.

In Sydney, the iconic Easter Show at Sydney Olympic Park is a staple in the region's celebration. This spectacular event features everything from rodeo shows and livestock competitions to thrilling rides and carnival games. The event also boasts live music performances, street food stalls, and various activities for children, making it one of the largest and most family-friendly Easter events in Australia.

Meanwhile, in Melbourne, Easter festivities are often marked by the Royal Melbourne Show, an event that brings together Australia’s agricultural heritage with modern entertainment. The show features a variety of attractions, from petting zoos and pony rides to carnival games, art displays, and food stalls. Easter activities are also held at Fitzroy Gardens, where families can enjoy craft workshops, food trucks, and a lively Easter egg hunt that is perfect for little ones.

Brisbane is no stranger to exciting Easter events either. Easter Fairs at the Brisbane Showgrounds offer a vibrant mix of live entertainment, shopping stalls, and family-friendly activities. Local food trucks offer everything from gourmet burgers to artisanal ice creams, while carnival games and amusement rides provide a fun escape for those looking to unwind.

For a more intimate experience, Adelaide is known for its Easter Farmers Markets, where locals gather to shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts. These markets are not only a celebration of the season but also an opportunity to experience the warmth of South Australia’s community spirit.

Easter wouldn't be complete without the beloved Easter egg hunts, and across Australia, these events take center stage during the holiday weekend. From sprawling gardens to local parks, children everywhere are encouraged to search for chocolate eggs, toys, and treats, which are often hidden in creative and elaborate ways.

In Canberra, the annual Easter Egg Hunt at the National Botanic Gardens is a beloved event. The lush gardens provide a magical backdrop for children as they embark on a treasure hunt, discovering colorful eggs hidden among the flowers, trees, and bushland. With additional activities such as face painting, craft stations, and live performances, the event offers a perfect family day out.

In Hobart, the Easter Egg Hunt at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is another delightful activity for young children. Set against the tranquil beauty of the gardens, families can wander the grounds and hunt for hidden Easter eggs while enjoying nature’s wonders. For added fun, the event also includes a visit from the Easter Bunny, who delights the kids with photos and candy.

While Easter is often thought of as a daytime celebration, there are also several exciting nighttime events that make the most of the holiday’s festive spirit. From outdoor movie nights to Easter-themed performances, these events allow people to gather after sundown and enjoy the community atmosphere.

In Melbourne, Easter by Twilight at Melbourne Zoo invites visitors to explore the zoo after hours. The event features a special Easter trail, where families can follow clues and enjoy festive activities under the stars. There’s also the chance to meet nocturnal animals and enjoy light displays and entertainment in a fun and unique setting.

In Sydney, Vivid Sydney—the city’s famous light, music, and ideas festival—often coincides with Easter weekend. While Vivid is generally held later in May and June, the Easter period features early previews of light installations that turn the city into a colorful wonderland. Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the Royal Botanic Gardens are all illuminated with spectacular projections that visitors can enjoy during their Easter visit. You will want to stand out with LED Moving Bunny Ear Headbands as you walk around and take in the Easter spirit.

In the Gold Coast, Night Markets at Surfers Paradise are an essential part of the Easter celebrations. These markets, which run in the evenings, showcase live music, street performers, food vendors, and artisans offering a wide array of products. Whether it’s Easter-themed merchandise, handmade crafts, or fresh seafood, the markets are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the evening breeze by the beach.

Though Easter is widely celebrated with fun fairs, carnivals, and hunts, it is also a time for reflection and religious observance for many Australians. Churches across the country hold special Easter services, including Good Friday services, Easter Vigils, and Easter Sunday Masses. These services often feature candlelight ceremonies with LED Candles, musical performances, and symbolic traditions such as the lighting of the Paschal candle, representing the resurrection of Christ.

In Melbourne, St. Patrick's Cathedral holds an annual Easter Vigil service, a beautiful and solemn occasion marked by prayers, hymns, and the reading of scripture. In Sydney, the Cathedral of St. Mary also hosts a series of religious services throughout the Easter weekend, drawing large crowds who come to commemorate the event with reverence and joy.

Easter in Australia is a time of celebration, connection, and fun. From bustling carnivals and family-friendly Easter egg hunts to serene nighttime events and religious observances, the holiday brings communities together in a festive and meaningful way. Whether you're enjoying the excitement of a local fair or taking part in a quiet candlelit service, Easter is a wonderful opportunity to make memories with loved ones, reflect on traditions, and embrace the spirit of the season.

As Easter draws near, be sure to check out these exciting activities across Australia and create lasting memories with your family and friends. Happy Easter!