Raina Wright Reynolds and her daughter, Maybelle, take a picture with the Easter Bunny. Courtesy photo.

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – Easter celebrations started in Gridley as early as April 12 and continued through Easter Sunday, April 20.

Most of the events started with the youngest children going out first, some as young as 1 year old, to find the eggs in the easiest places. The older groups were turned loose for the more challenging finds. Some groups hid special prize eggs.

The Miss Butte County Court girls were a big help to the Lion’s Club Easter Egg hunt. Courtesy photo

On April 12, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints had a tri-ward breakfast and Easter Egg Hunt at the church on French Avenue. Each ward had special Easter services on Easter Sunday. All the kids were anxious for the egg hunt, which was first.

The Gridley Lions Club had their 47th annual Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 at Manuel Vierra Park. They colored 4,800 real eggs for the event, and all were snapped up in just a few minutes!

Past Lions President Barbara Ott said that club members really wanted to have the real eggs, and Grocery Outlet gave the organization a good discount. Eleven prize eggs, painted silver and gold and one both silver and gold, were hidden along with the others.

The Easter bunny poses for a picture with the Miss Butte County court at Vierra Park. Courtesy photo

The lucky finders of the prize eggs received a stuffed bunny prize. Embracing the joy of the season, the Miss Butte County court and West-Gridley 4H hopped to it by answering the Easter Bunny’s call to assist with the event. First Baptist Church had a free craft for children representing the reason Easter is celebrated.

The Live Oak Lions club also held their annual Easter egg hunt during Easter weekend.

The annual Lion’s Club Easter Egg hunt at Vierra Park was enjoyed by all who attended. Photo by Connie Voss

The Howard Hamman family had their annual event on Easter Sunday, at their property near the Sutter Buttes. Festivities included a potluck picnic followed by an Easter egg hunt. The Hammans welcomed about 100 people “from all over,” according to Hamman. Some were unacquainted with the family and came with others.

Another celebration was held at Christian Life church, 1526 Humble Ave. The Easter service was held at 10 a.m. with an egg hunt immediately following, along with crafts and prizes. Attendees finished off the morning with a free barbecue luncheon.

Happy Spring!