The Taos News

Town of Taos Easter Eggstravag­anza

- BY TAMRA TESTERMAN

TAOS CITY COUNCIL MEMBER Corilia Ortega, known for her humble behind-the-scenes leadership style, and a passion for community – became the architect of a new tradition with a simple question, a casual inquiry about activities for teenagers during the Easter celebratio­n. This question sparked an idea, a realizatio­n that while the young ones frolicked in search of Easter eggs, their older siblings, the teenagers, and even the adults, lacked a place in the festivitie­s.

From this spark, a new tradition was born. Relay and three-legged races, and tug-of-war, transforme­d the Easter celebratio­n into a community event, engaging not just the youngest members but everyone, from teenagers to grandparen­ts. It was a vision brought to life by the council member’s initiative, and Town of Taos Community Events Coordinato­r Judy Esquibel, supported by the tireless efforts of volunteers and the community’s open-hearted participat­ion.

This year’s Easter Eggstravag­anza happens Sunday, March 31 from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm at Kit Carson Park. A Taos tradition, Trixie the Easter Bunny will be on hand for memory making family photograph­s and to hand out Easter baskets.

The main event is the Easter egg hunt separated into four age groups: 1-3-year-olds at 1 pm, 4-6-year-olds at 1:30, 7-9-year-olds at 1:50 and 10-12-year-olds at 2 in different sections of the park. There are 13,800 filled eggs and small sports balls, colored eggs filled with small toys, candy or tickets that can be redeemed for egg decorating kits, coloring cups and Easter baskets. The grand prize Easter eggs for 1-3-year-olds is a scooter, for 4-6-year-olds is a bike, for 7-9-year-olds is a $50.00 gift card. 10-12-year-olds also get a $50.00 gift card.

For teens ages 13-18 there are team relay gunny sack, spoon and egg races, and jump rope. And three-legged races with Council member Ortega. Esquibel said this year “will be the most epic field games ever!” DJ Chicharron from Native Winds Radio will spin the tunes. There will be crafts, temporary tattoos, and bounce houses weather permitting. Bring a picnic, your chairs, a bucket for treats and blankets to settle in for the festivitie­s.

Council member Ortega stressed the importance of providing memorable experience­s for everyone regardless of age, and emphasized the role of community events in fostering a sense of identity and belonging. In Taos, the Easter celebratio­n is a vibrant event that breaks traditiona­l barriers and brings the town together in a spirit of spring renewal, and joy.

Free event parking will be available at the entrance of Kit Carson Park, the TCA parking lots, Municipal Court/ Civic Center, Town Hall and Taos Public Library. ADA accessible parking will be at the entrance of Kit Carson Park.

League of United Latin American Citizens Council # 78 (LULAC), Super Save Discount Food Store, Town of Taos Community Events, Parks and Recreation Divisions sponsor the event, along with co-sponsorshi­ps from DJ Chicharron and Native Winds Radio, Sam Joseph Photograph­y, Taos Fire Department, Town of Taos Police Department, and TrueKids 1.

For more informatio­n, contact Judy Esquibel at 575-751-2037 or at jesquibel@taosnm.gov. Visit www.TaosNM.gov, Town of Taos Community Events Facebook Page, or@ town of ta os community events Instagram to stay up to date on upcoming events.

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COURTESY PHOTO

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