Visitors and locals are invited to participate in some Island Easter traditions, including the Easter Sunrise Service at Manatee County Beach, the Easter Egg Hunt at the Sandbar Restaurant and the Easter Egg Roll and Easter Bonnet Contest on Pine Ave. The celebration starts at 8:30 AM on Saturday, April 15th, with refreshments before the kids take their places on the beach. The hunt is open to kids 10 years old and under with baskets to collect their eggs. After the hunt, the Easter Bunny leads the kids and their families up to Pine Avenue for the 8th Annual Easter Egg Roll and Easter Bonnet Contest. There will be fun for the entire family with face painters, changes to roll eggs across a lane with a spoon and egg coloring. At 10:30, judges will look for winning Easter bonnets. The competition is open to kids and grownups alike. On Sunday, April 16th, the 53rd Sunrise Service will take place at Manatee County Beach. The trolleys start running at 6 AM and the Anna Maria Beach Cafe will open at 6 AM for those needing coffee. All six of the Island’s churches participate in the service. Worshipers are urged to dress for the weather and brings a blanket or chairs to sit! There will be music to accompany the service! Whew! Lots going on Easter weekend! We look forward to seeing you on Pine Ave Happy Easter! Ginger
