New York's 4 Best Easter Events For The Family

Each year, the exciting Easter events in New York herald the arrival of spring. This year's host of fun, family events are sure to result in a case of spring fever for all. We offer a sampling of some of those premiere events to ensure that the whole family can feel spring in the air. After a full day of Easter fun, you'll be more than ready to fill up for Easter dinner.

Price: Free
Date: April 8, 2012

Although it may lack the fanfare typically associated with other NYC parades, this Easter extravaganza is fun for the whole family to watch. A tradition since the late 19^th century, it is always exciting to see the participants march in their bright colored Easter finery. The beautiful bonnets are a sight to see. Perhaps best of all is the host of animals which parade down the street also dressed in their Easter best. The parade closes traffic between 49^th-57^th Streets, so be sure to park far enough away to avoid a roadblock.

Date: April 8, 20120
Price: Members: Free; Non-members: $7-$11 (children 0-12 months free)

Looking for an educational way to spend your Easter? A trip to the Children's Museum of Manhattan may be just the answer. Hunt for paper eggs throughout the day. Check in at the visitor's desk when you arrive for an Easter Paper Scavenger Hunt egg sheet. Turn your completed form in on the way out for a prize. Throughout the day the museum will be offering two special activities. Children 4 and under will have fun creating Easter Egg themed colorful collages; while children 6 and up can participate in learning about and decorating Ukranian-inspired patterned Easter Eggs. The visitor's desk will have information with specific times. Each class runs alternating hours throughout the day.

Related: NYC In Chocolate: Easter Walking Tour Samples Best City Sweets

Date: April 8, 2012
Price: Free

Easter Fest offers a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family. This annual event features a puppet parade, games, crafts and a visit from the Easter bunny. In the South Churchyard, kids 6 and under can hunt for eggs filled with prizes and candy. Meanwhile, in the North Churchyard, your youngsters over 6 can participate in the annual scavenger hunt which includes a prize for all children at the conclusion. Don't be shy, parents are also welcome to participate.

Date: April 7, 2012
Price: $5

Who knew that this bucolic setting is just a hop, skip and a jump from the city? This annual event takes place in the beautiful orchard. There will be egg hunting and dancing (the 'Bunny Hop' of course), egg tosses and egg rolling. Whiskers the bunny will be there to offer greetings to all. While there, be sure to check out the farm animals and take a hayride. This is the perfect way to welcome Spring on this Easter Saturday.

Related: Bunnies 101: What You Need To Know Before Owning A Rabbit