The Easter Bunny is making its way toward Williamsport and plans to make an appearance at Brandon Park on Saturday afternoon.
At 2 p.m., a siren or alarm will sound, signifying the start of the fifth annual Easter egg hunt at the Dr. Kenneth L. Cooper bandshell near Packer Street.
The late Cooper was an arborist and obstetrician whose legacy includes planting shade trees throughout the city and caring for Brandon Park, his second home.
As the flowering trees bud and blossom, hundreds of colored, plastic eggs will be filled with candy, toys and gift cards to restaurants, according to Mayor Gabriel J. Campana.
Thrilled children will swarm the grounds, seeking the prizes and candy left by the Easter Bunny.
"It's our way of giving back to the city and region," Campana said.
He considers family-oriented events to be ways to increase economic development in the city. Many of the people who attend the egg hunt later may go to one of the city's other events or visit a restaurant or business, he said.
In case of rain, the egg hunt will be held the following Saturday at the same time.
Children up to and including age 10 may take part in the egg hunt. There are five age groups: infant to 1, ages 2 to 3, 4 to 5, 6 to 8, and 9 to 10.
Parents of small children who are too young to scour the ground for themselves may receive assistance from adults, Campana said.
The event features free face painting sponsored by the Williamsport Area High School Student Government.
"It's our administration's way to give back to the families," Campana said of the annual event.
