Easter Extravaganza: Egg Hunts and ‘Donnie Darko’ Screenings Light Up Tucson

As Easter weekend approaches, various events offer opportunities for celebration and community engagement in Tucson. From spiritual observances to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.

The 57th Annual Good Friday Cross Procession and Easter Sunrise Service will take place on April 18 at Sentinel Peak, also known as ‘A’ Mountain. The Los Dorados Orphan League invites participants to gather at the lower parking lot at 4 p.m., with the procession starting at 5 p.m. Participants will carry wooden crosses, including one that stands over 12 feet tall, making prayer stops at various Stations of the Cross along the route. Vigil will continue until Saturday, with the Easter Sunrise Service scheduled for 6 a.m. in both English and Spanish.

This year’s Easter ExtravaganZOO! is set for April 19 and 20 at the Reid Park Zoo. Kicking off at 7:30 a.m., the event features an egg hunt where attendees can exchange their collected eggs for treat bags. Those who find special golden eggs will receive unique prizes. After the hunt, families can enjoy breakfast with the Easter Bunny in the Event Garden. Admission tickets, which also grant access to the zoo, are available online and range from $29 for children to $42 for adults.

Tucson Baptist Church will host an Easter Eggstravaganza on April 19 at the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center from 9 to 10 a.m. This free event includes an Easter egg hunt, games, face painting, and treats hidden inside the eggs. Participation is organized by age groups, and children younger than two or older than sixth grade are not eligible to join in the hunt.

On the same day, Sabino Road Baptist Church is organizing a Community Easter Egg Hunt at Morris K. Udall Park from 10 to 11 a.m. The event anticipates over 7,000 eggs and categorizes participants into age groups, ensuring inclusivity for children with special needs. Aside from the egg hunt, attendees can enjoy crafts, giveaways, and a prayer station. Registration is available both online and onsite starting at 8:30 a.m.