This Friday, March 20 marks the first day of spring, and Easter will soon hop along on Sunday, April 5. We’ve compiled a list of events in Mission Times Courier’s communities and beyond to celebrate the season of renewal and the impending holiday.

Easter Bunny’s Basket at the San Diego Zoo
2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park
Saturday, March 21 – Sunday, April 5 | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For two weeks, zoo-goers will have the chance to meet Peter or Paula Cottontail and get a photo with them to take home. Photos are taken near the Skyfari East entrance near Front Street. Visit sandiegozoo.org.

Spring Egg Hunt at Allied Gardens Recreation Center
5155 Greenbrier Ave., Allied Gardens
Saturday, March 28 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

This annual spring egg hunt is divided by age group with toddlers 2 years of age and under starting at 11:30 a.m., 3 – 4 year olds at noon, 5 – 7 year olds at 12:30 p.m. and the final group, ages 8 and up, at 1 p.m. There will also be crafts, jumpers and food for purchase. Don’t forget your basket. Call 619-234-1129 for more information.

Easter Eggstravaganza at the Salvation Army Kroc Center
6845 University Ave., Rolando
Saturday, April 4 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

This huge Easter egg hunt on the center’s recreation field is designed for ages 11 and under, and will include over 17,000 eggs. There will be additional festive activities including a visit by the Easter bunny. Visit kroccenter.org for details.

Spring Carnival at San Carlos Recreation Center
6445 Lake Badin Ave., San Carlos
Saturday, April 4 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The annual carnival will include egg hunts, air jumpers, a petting zoo, live music and more. The event is free, but donations to benefit the center are welcome. The egg hunts will be divided by age group with 2 year olds and younger starting at 10:30 a.m., 3 – 5 year olds at 11 a.m., 6 – 8 year olds at 11:30 a.m. and 9 – 12 year olds at noon. Call 619-527-3443 for more information.

Glow-in-the-dark egg hunt at First United Methodist Church of San Diego
2111 Camino del Rio South, Mission Valley
Saturday, April 4 | 6 – 8 p.m.

For the second year, this church will host a unique egg hunt for children as young as 3. In addition to the hunt there will be an egg launching, cake walk, photo booth and more. There is a $10 suggested donation per family. Get more information at fumcsd.org.

**Many other parks will be hosting egg hunts and spring festivals. Visit sandiego.gov to find other events. **