More than 1,000 residents gathered for Oceanside’s annual Easter egg hunt, co-sponsored by the Oceanside Kiwanis Club and the Oceanside Department of Community Activities.
Originally planned as an outdoor event, this year’s hunt was moved indoors to the gymnasium at Oceanside School No. 6 due to the cold. Organizers transformed the space into what they described as a “springtime party,” complete with music, decorations and activity stations for children and families.
“The event itself was a tremendous success,” said Maria Bavaro, supervisor of the Department of Community Activities and the event’s organizer. “Even though we moved indoors, it made for a cozier celebration. The gym was filled with excitement from start to finish.”
Children fanned out across the gym collecting thousands of colorful, jelly bean–filled plastic eggs. Some lucky participants discovered golden tickets inside their eggs, redeemable for special prizes. Bavaro said organizers planned for more than 100 golden ticket winners, along with 10 larger raffle prizes that included gift certificates and toys.
In total, about 4,500 eggs were prepared for the event, filled with more than 100 pounds of jelly beans. Bavaro noted that organizers took care to ensure the candy was allergen-conscious, including nut-free options, so all children could safely participate.
Beyond the egg hunt itself, families enjoyed a variety of activities, including cookie decorating, a temporary tattoo station and a guessing game in which participants estimated the number of rubber ducks in a jar for a prize. The cookie decorating station was supported by a donation from a local Kiwanis member, adding a personal touch to the day.
Volunteers played a key role in bringing the event to life. Members of Kiwanis were joined by student volunteers from local service clubs, including the high school Key Club, middle school Builders Club and elementary-level K-Kids. Together, they helped prepare the eggs, set up the gym and run activity stations throughout the event.
Planning for the annual egg hunt begins well in advance, Bavaro said, often starting a year ahead to secure a date and coordinate logistics. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience, she said organizers are able to anticipate attendance and ensure there are enough supplies and activities for all.
“It’s truly a team effort,” Bavaro said. “You can’t do it without volunteers, and you can’t do it without the support of the community.”
Bavaro emphasized that events like the egg hunt are central to Oceanside’s identity as a close-knit community.
“This is the heart of Oceanside,” she said. “It’s people coming together, supporting one another and creating joyful memories for families. Everything we do is for the kids, and it’s about making sure everyone leaves with a smile.”
For many families, the annual egg hunt remains a cherished tradition — one that continues to bring the community together year after year.
