ANNA MARIA – The 34th Annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Sandbar Restaurant drew hundreds of children and their excited parents to the white sands of Anna Maria Island on April 16.
This annual event is not only a treat for local children, but kids from around the world. There were families from across the United States, as well as Germany, the UK, Argentina, Canada, Australia and many more countries.
“We are here from England. We saw this on one of the local Facebook groups we follow and knew the kids would love it,” said Linus Davies, whose three children scrambled for eggs in the hunt. “It was over so quickly, we were only able to get one quality photograph before the eggs were gone. Much more competitive than we anticipated.”
Eggs had treats hidden inside for the children to enjoy after the bring your own basket event. There was also a bonnet contest with prizes including lunch for four at the Sandbar, a gift certificate to Anna Maria Rocks and a chocolate bunny. For the adults, there was a Sandy Toes picnic experience, Sea-Renity Beach Spa massage and lunch for two at the Sandbar up for grabs. For most people, it seemed that just spending time on the beach as a family was the big prize.
“It’s our first time on the Island,” Emily Roth said. “We’ve been to Siesta Key twice and we’ve done Destin, but we really like the feel around here. We saw this event on the AMI Chamber of Commerce’s website.”
The Roths and their friends, the Cowgills, who have vacationed on the Island previously, said they enjoy the laid-back charm of Anna Maria Island and its family-friendly atmosphere.
Sponsors of this year’s egg hunt include the Sandbar, The Anna Maria Island Sun, Anna Maria Rocks, Sea-Renity Beach Spa and Courtesy Cleaners.
