5 things you can’t miss at the Easter Promenade

5 things you can’t miss at the Easter Promenade

Easter is this weekend and if you’re looking for some family-friendly fun, hop on down to the 86th annual Easter Promenade on Sunday, April 16.

The event begins at 12:30 p.m. at Passyunk Avenue and South Street, with a formal introduction from master of ceremonies, Henri David. Promenade participants will stroll to Headhouse Square (at 2nd Street), where most of the action will be happening.

Here are five things you definitely shouldn’t miss:

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Cottontail

The Easter Bunny and his wife will be at the event, hanging out the kids and grownups alike, as well as cruising down South Street in their 1956 Thunderbird.

The live music

Big music fan? Be sure to make time in your schedule to hear the Philadelphia Freedom Band perform. They will march in the promenade and will even perform the
“Bunny Hop” at the mainstage area in Headhouse Square. During this time, volunteers dressed as bunnies will dance along with the audience.

Henri David’s outfit

As master of ceremonies, Henri David always goes all out for his ensemble.  His costumes have sometimes been as big as three feet  wide and up to four feet high — always with a lot of color and that South Street “razzle dazzle.” David has served as master of ceremonies since the 80s.

Taking part in the costume contest

Both children and adults can enter the costume contests, being judged this year by a team of celebrity judges (including me) at Headhouse Square. The 12 categories are: best dressed little girl, best dressed little boy, best dressed young girl, best dressed young boy, best dressed teen girl, best dressed teen boy, best dressed woman, best dressed man, best dressed family, best dressed pet, best Easter bonnet and best South Street razzle dazzle. All children who enter receive free Easter treats and stickers.

Digging into brunch specials

Easter isn’t complete without indulging in a decadent meal with the family. A few area restaurants offering special Easter brunches include: The Twisted Tail, Pizzeria Stella, The Little Lion, Bridget Foy’s and more.

If you go:
Easter Promenade
Sunday, April 16
12:30 p.m.
Free to attend
southstreet.com