Calgary woman personifies city’s spirit of generosity
From mini-egg hot chocolate to a photo op with the big bunny himself, there was no shortage of activities at this year’s Easter in Kensington event held Sunday.
Kensington BRZ member Ellen Parker said in its third year, the neighbourhood’s annual Easter extravaganza event sees up to 1,200 guests wandering around, Easter maps in hand, checking out the 30odd local businesses handing out Easter treats and hosting special holiday activities.
“There are so many locally owned mom-and-pop shops that work tirelessly year round to stay in business, so it’s wonderful to be able to do this,” Parker said. “Especially in this financially strained economy, it’s important we support these great businesses and invite everyone in the Calgary community down.”
Starting the morning off with Easter brunch at Vero Bistro, attendees had a chance to tap into their inner artist and paint Easter eggs at Raw Canvas or visit the Butterfield Acres petting zoo in front of The Naked Leaf tea shop.
Parker said between hopping from activity to treats on the Easter egg map and the encouragement of Hillhurst community members, this year’s Easter event was their best yet.
“We’re doing all these complimentary events so all of Calgary has access to some wonderful, family-oriented opportunities,” she said. “We’re close to downtown, but still have this small-town community feel. The whole neighbourhood has focused on bringing people together, which helps make this such a popular event.”
Hillhurst residents and Calgary community members had four hours, starting at noon Sunday, to collect as many Easter treats as their baskets would accommodate and enjoy the many cafes, snack shacks and artisan shops Kensington has to offer.