Army Wife Network’s Spring Fling Guide
It’s March, we’ve switched over to Daylight Savings Time, the official start of spring is just days away. Temperatures are warming up, the snow and ice is melting, the birds are returning and the trees are starting to grow new buds. It’s time to dust ourselves off and venture outdoors for some fun and adventure. AWN has gathered together a whole basketful of spring happenings in your military communities.
Alabama
Fort Rucker
Children’s Festival, March 28: Free military family event at the Fort Rucker Festival Fields from 1-4 PM. Tons of activities, games, crafts, inflatables, a petting zoo, stilt walkers, and more! The festival also includes an Easter egg hunt and meet and greet with the Easter Bunny!http://www.ftruckermwr.com/special-events/
Piney Woods Arts Festival, April 11-12: Located at the Enterprise State Community College, this is one of the oldest arts and crafts shows in the area. The event features a children’s fun center, food and entertainment including a Civil War Living Display and the Weevil City Cruisers Car and Truck Show. Admission is free and the fun starts at 7 PM. http://www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com/#!copy-of-seven-bridges-for-seven-brothers/c13cx
Alaska
Fort Greely
Spring Migration Celebration, May 2: This free event is held at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge in Fairbanks from 12-4 PM. Events include bird and wildlife viewing, information booths, nature walks, puppet shows, crafts, and games. http://www.alaskacenters.gov/bird-festivals.cfm
Bacon Festival Fairbanks, May 23: This festival celebrates the tasty pork product that saved Fairbanks during the 1906 fire. Events include vendors, bacon tasting, live entertainment and all things bacon. www.festivalfairbanks.org
JB Elmendorf-Richardson
Spring Meltdown, March 28-29: Held at the Hillberg Ski Area, this two day event includes a Slush Cup, skiing and snowboarding events, and a cardboard sled race for both kids and adults! http://www.jber.af.mil/events/index.asp
Alyeska Spring Carnival and Slush Cup, April 10-12: Costumed skiers and boarders attempt to ski across a brutally cold, slushy pond. Events include skiing and snowboarding, kids’ races, live music and more! http://www.anchorage.net/anchorage-events-2015
Fort Wainwright
March Madness, March 27-29: This three day event takes place at the Birch Hill Ski and Snowboard Hill Area. Events include shovel races, kids’ games, a polar plunge, and bonfire! http://www.ftwainwrightfmwr.com/birchhillski.html
Month of the Military Child Carnival, April 25: This event will be held at the School Age Center from 10 AM-2 PM. The theme of the carnival is “You’re one in a Minion!” http://www.calendarwiz.com/calendars/calendar.php?crd=ftwainwrightfmwr&op=cal&month=4&year=2015
Arizona
Fort Huachuca
Easter Egg Hunt Lead-Arounds, April 4: Hunt for Easter eggs on horseback! This event will be held at the Buffalo Corral Riding Stables from 12-5 PM. Cost is $15 per child. http://www.mwrhuachuca.com/buffalo_corral.html
Month of the Military Child Festival, April 11: This free event will be held at the Thunder Mountain Activity Center from 9 AM-2 PM. http://www.mwrhuachuca.com/specialevents.html
USAREC – Phoenix Battalion
Cave Creek Balloon Festival, May 23: Held at Rancho Manana, the fun begins at 5:30 PM. Events include live music, a kids’ zone, and a balloon glow. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for kids 12 and under, and free for children younger than 2. http://cavecreekfestivals.com/
Yuma Proving Ground
Tunes and Tacos Festival, April 10-11: This event will be held at the Desert Sun Stadium in Yuma from 11 AM-11 PM. Activities include local performance groups, live music, kids’ zone, and competitive eating contests. Admission to the festival is free but tickets must be purchased for the concerts held in conjunction with the festival. http://www.tunesandtacos.com/
Arkansas
Pine Bluff Arsenal
Family Night Bingo and Easter Egg Hunt, March 26: This free event will be held at the Child, Youth & School Services building from 5:30- PM. http://www.pbamwr.com/images/uploads/Family_Night_Bingo_and_Easter_Egg_Hunt.pdf
Mudbug Madness Crawfish Festival, May 9: Held in Pine Bluff. http://www.lasr.net/travel/county.php?Jefferson+County+Events&TravelTo=AR0610&VE=Y#.VP7cZY73-iw
California
Camp Parks
Spring Eggstravaganza, April 4: This free event will be held at Emerald Glen Park in Dublin. The fun begins at 8:30 AM and activities include Easter egg hunts, arts and crafts, carnival games, bounce houses, and more! Online registration is required before the event at this link: http://www.ci.dublin.ca.us/index.aspx?NID=287
Spring Faire, May 9: This free event will be held at the Heritage Park and Museums in Dublin from 12-5 PM. Events include live music, croquet on the lawn, children’s arts and crafts, and a Maypole! http://www.ci.dublin.ca.us/index.aspx?NID=1501
Fort Hunter Liggett
Youth Fishing Derby, April 11: This free event will be held at Del Venturi Reservoir starting at 6 AM. The event features free fishing for children 15 years and younger, a fish cleaning station, and free lunch. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeF-PPgimKo
Salinas Valley Fair, May 14-17: This event will be held at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds in King City. The fair is open 11 AM-10 PM. Saturday, May 16 is Armed Forces Day, all military personnel and dependents with military ID cards get free admission. http://www.salinasvalleyfair.com/
Fort Irwin
Calico Spring Festival, May 9-10: Held at the Calico Ghost Town in Yermo, this event features live music, an arts and crafts show, and cowboy poetry! http://cms.sbcounty.gov/parks/Parks/CalicoGhostTown.aspx
USAREC – Fresno Battalion
Fresno State Vintage Days, April 17-19: Held at the Fresno State campus, this festival includes a craft fair, music, kids’ arts and crafts area, petting zoo, pony rides, and more! Free parking and free admission. http://festivalnet.com/21589/Fresno-California/Art-and-Craft-Shows/Fresno-State-Vintage-Days
Fresno Pirate Festival, May 16-17: This event, held at Roeding Park in Fresno, includes a parade, games, a kids’ area, and more! http://festivalnet.com/40068/Fresno-California/Specialty-Theme-Events/Fresno-Pirate-Festival
USAREC – Los Angeles Battalion
Big Bunny’s Spring Fling, April 3-5: This event, held at the Los Angeles Zoo, includes activities such as a petting zoo, arts and crafts, and pictures with the Easter bunny. Cost is regular zoo admission price. http://lazoo.doubleknot.com/event/1494401
Springtime Easter Festival, March 28-April 6: Held at Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark from 9 AM-6 PM each day, this festival includes arts and crafts, games, wagon rides, a petting zoo, Easter chick races, and more! Admission is $6 per person, children 2 and under are free. http://www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com/Easter_on_the_Farm.html
USAREC – Sacramento Battalion
Earth Fest, April 4: This event, held at the Sacramento Zoo, takes place from 9 AM-5 PM. Activities include a rummage sale, face painting, arts and crafts, games, and zookeeper talks. Admission to the event is included in the cost of zoo admission for the day. http://www.saczoo.org/Page.aspx?pid=231&cid=2&ceid=146&cerid=0&cdt=4%2f4%2f2015
UC Davis Picnic Day, April 18: This free event will be held on the UC Davis campus and includes activities such as parades, the Battle of the Marching Bands, a chemistry magic show, a multicultural children’s fair, and much, much more! http://www.sacramento365.com/event/detail/441898667/UC_Davis_Picnic_Day_2015_Heart_of_the_Community
USAREC – Southern California Battalion
Bunny Days, April 4: This free event, held at Oso Viejo Park in Mission Viejo, takes place from 11 AM-2 PM. Activities include pony rides, carnival games, spring crafts, photos with the Easter bunny, and more! http://www.planadayout.com/Activity/Oso-Viejo-Community-Park/Bunny-Days-1253
Arts Alive Festival, May 2-3: Held at Oso Viejo Park in Mission Viejo, this event features chalk street painting, interactive art workshops, and live entertainment. This year’s theme is the arts and culture of the 1980’s. http://missionviejolife.org/2015/02/16/save-the-date-for-arts-alive-festival-this-spring/
Presidio of Monterey (DLI/FLC)
Breakfast with the Bunny, April 4: Held in Devendorf Park in Carmel-by-the-Sea, this free event is hosted by the local Lions Club which includes free food, face painting, games, and a visit from the Easter bunny. http://www.carmelcalifornia.com/event-19th-annual-breakfast-with-the-bunny_57.htm
Colorado
Fort Carson
Easter Egg Wall Crawl, March 24: This event will be held at the Alpine Tower Complex on Fort Carson from 4-6 PM. Children ages 5-12 can participate in a unique Easter egg hunt by searching for eggs as they scale the outdoor climbing wall. Pre-registration is required and admission is $1. http://www.mwrfortcarson.com/#!Easter Egg Wall Crawl/zoom/cvzp/image_1t40
Canon City Music & Blossom Festival, May 1-4: This festival includes the largest school band competition in the state, a parade, a carnival, craft fair, and the oldest rodeo in Colorado! http://www.royalgorgetravel.com/blossom_festival
USAREC – Denver Battalion
Bunny Express Train, April 4: This event takes place from 10 AM-4 PM at the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden. Take a train ride with the Easter bunny and explore the Railroad Museum. Cost is $5 for children ages 2-15, $15 for adults, under 2 is free. http://coloradorailroadmuseum.org/events/special-events/bunny-express-train/
Thorntonfest, May 16: This event, held at Carpenter Park Fields in Thornton, takes place from 10 AM-5 PM. Activities include Kids Korner, Battle of the Bands, beer gardens, and even a special area to bring your pets! https://www.cityofthornton.net/Festivals/Thorntonfest/Pages/default.aspx
District of Columbia (DC)
Pentagon
National Cherry Blossom Festival, March 20-April 12: This festival held in the heart of Washington, D.C. includes events such as concerts, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, and the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival. http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/
Washington DC Dragon Boat Festival, May 16-17: This event, held at Thompson’s Boat Center near Georgetown, involves two days of colorful dragon boat races along the Potomac River. Other activities include interactive Chinese cultural performances and demonstrations, martial arts and traditional Chinese dance demonstrations, and a poetry competition. http://dc.about.com/od/specialevents/a/DragonBoatFestival.htm
Florida
USAREC – Jacksonville Battalion
Beach Easter Egg Hunt, April 4: Held at Sunshine Park in Jacksonville Beach, this event begins at 10 AM. http://www.jacksonvillebeach.org/events/special-events/city-jacksonville-beach-easter-egg-hunt-0
Springing the Blues Festival, April 17-19: Held on Jacksonville Beach, the festival includes three days of live blues and jazz music, a surfing competition, a marketplace with local vendors selling homemade goods, and a 5k run. http://www.springingtheblues.com/
USAREC – Miami Battalion
Sunny Isles Beach’s Egg Scramble, April 4: Held at Pelican Community Park in Sunny Isles Beach, this free event takes place from 10 AM-2 PM. Children have the chance to hunt for 10,000 candy-filled eggs hidden under 3,000 beach balls. http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/shortorder/2012/04/miamis_easter_egg_hunt_guide.php
River Cities Festival, April 10-12: This event, held in downtown Miami Springs, includes live music and entertainment, a river ride, chili cookoff, cake bakeoff, children’s zone, and more! http://www.miamisprings.com/2015-river-cities-festival.asp
USAREC – Tampa Battalion
Underwater Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt, April 4-5: Held at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa, this event includes a scuba diving Easter bunny, an underwater Easter egg scavenger hunt, photos with the Easter bunny, and brunch with the Easter bunny (on April 4 only). http://www.flaquarium.org/event-calendar/easter.aspx
Philfest 2015, April 10-12: Held at the Philippine Cultural Enrichment Complex in Tampa, this event includes singing and talent competitions, cultural exhibits, arts and crafts, and much more! Admission is $5 in advance, $7 at the gate. http://www.pcfitampa.org/philfest-2015/
Georgia
Fort Benning
Spring Eggstravaganza, March 28: This free event is held on the lawn of Riverside, the home of Fort Benning’s commanding general. Activities include egg hunts, games, refreshments, and prizes. http://www.benningmwr.com/special-events-2/
Frogtown Hollow Jam, April 17-18: This event will be held at Woodruff Park in Columbus. Activities include live music, arts and crafts vendors, face painting, games, stiltwalkers, bounce houses, and more! Admission is $10 per adult, kids 12 and under free. Military receive a 50% discount on admission prices with proof of military ID. http://www.frogtownhollowjam.com/
Fort Gordon
Fort Gordon Spring Fest, April 16-19: This free event, held on Barton Field on Fort Gordon, includes a carnival, flea market, live music and entertainment, and more! http://events.augusta.com/events/community-events-family-friendly-festivals-food-drink-music/fort-gordon-spring-fest-2015
Fort Stewart/ Hunter Army Airfield
Fort Stewart Spring Carnival, April 2-5: This event, held at Walker Field on Fort Stewart, includes rides, games, and carnival food. https://www.google.com/calendar/render?eid=cDVlZXN2YThmNDFjcGdxaGIwY203aHF1bjggbmViY3FmdmU1YnI1aDlsNmhvNDcxaWlpc29AZw&sf=true&output=xml#eventpage_6
USAREC – Atlanta Battalion
Spring Egg-stravaganza at the Museum, March 28: This event will be held at the Fernback Museum of Natural History from 10 AM-2 PM. Visitors are encouraged to search the museum for different egg stations, complete activities and participate in games as they collect their eggs. Event is included in price of admission to the museum for the day. http://www.fernbankmuseum.org/calendar-of-events/spring-egg-stravaganza/
Atlanta Dogwood Festival, April 10-12: This event, held at Piedmont Park, has something for everybody including live music, a fine artist market, a kids’ zone with face painting, inflatables, and rock climbing wall, and a 5k. http://www.dogwood.org/index.html
Hawaii
Schofield Barracks / Fort Shafter
Earth Day Fun Fest, April 4: This free event will be held on Weyand Field on Schofield Barracks from 8:45 AM- 2 PM. Events include a kids’ fun run, Easter egg hunt, inflatables, pony rides, Earth Day activities and more! http://www.himwr.com/special-events/latest-news-and-special-events/242-special-events/1358-fun-fest-earth-day-and-lts-travel-fair
Waikiki Spam Jam, May 2: This free event takes place on Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki from 4-10 PM. This festival celebrates all things Spam with cooking demonstrations and food tasting featuring Spam to vendors selling Spam-themed merchandise. There will also be two entertainment stages at the festival for live music and performances. http://www.spamjamhawaii.com/
Illinois
Rock Island Arsenal
Easter Eggstravaganza, April 4: This event will be held at Memorial Park Pavilion from 9 AM-12 PM. http://www.riamwr.com/event/easter-eggstravaganza/
Village in Bloom Festival, May 2: This festival, held in East Davenport, is a celebration of the arts. Activities include art exhibits, live entertainment, and make-and-take children’s art activities. http://www.villageinbloom.org/
USAREC – Chicago Battalion
Big Find Easter Egg Hunt, March 28: This event is held at Mary Bartleme Park in Chicago from 10 AM-12 PM. Activities include two separate Easter egg hunts, carnival games, inflatables, and more! Tickets for this event are required and can be found at: http://www.soulcitychurch.com/bigfind/.
Chicago Kids and Kites Festival, May 2: This free event is held on Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park, Chicago from 10 AM-4 PM. Activities include free paper kites, face painting, balloon animals, professional kite flying demonstrations, the Big Kite Candy Drop, and more! http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/kids_and_kites_festival.html
Indiana
USAREC – Indianapolis Battalion
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Easter Egg Hunt, April 7: This free event will take place from 10-11:30 AM next to the IMS Hall of Fame Museum. Children 12 and younger can participate in the egg hunt, meet the Easter bunny, and have fun in the infatables. http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500/news-multimedia/news/2012/03/22/easter-bunny-to-appear-at-free-easter-egg-hunt-april-7-at-ims
Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day, May 9: This free event will take place from 10 AM-2 PM at Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis. Kids can race remote control cars, try their hand at race car driving in a simulator, enjoy arts and crafts, face painting, clowns, and more. http://www.500festival.com/KidsDay
Kansas
Fort Riley
World Extravaganza Spring Break Pool Party, March 16-20: This event will be held at Eyster Pool from 1-4 PM each day. Each day features a different theme with food, drinks, games, and prizes. Admission is $25 for the week for the whole family or $15 per day. http://rileymwr.com/main/?p=2517773
Easter Egg Hunt, April 4: This free event will be held at the conference center on Fort Riley. The fun begins at 11 AM with Easter egg hunts for all ages, inflatables, children’s activities, and more. http://rileymwr.com/main/?p=2519073
Fort Leavenworth
Children’s Fest, April 11: This event will be held from 10 AM-2 PM at Harney Sports Complex to celebrate Month of the Military Child. http://fortleavenworthfmwr.com/
Gatsby Days, April 24-26: This event is held at the Hall of Waters & Cultural Museum in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. Gatsby Days celebrates F Scott Fitzgerald’s famous book “The Great Gatsby” by holding events centered around the culture of the 1920s. The event kicks off with a vaudeville review. https://www.visitkc.com/event-detail/gatsby-days?cid=18622
Kentucky
Fort Campbell
Spring Eggstravaganza, April 4: This free event will be held at Heritage Park Sports Complex in Clarksville starting at 1 PM. Activities include an Easter egg hunt, inflatables, face painting, games and more. http://www.clarksvilleonline.com/2015/03/03/clarksville-parks-and-recreation-department-annual-spring-eggstravaganza-set-for-april-4th/#more-302116
Spring Fling at Rotary Park, April 4: This free event will be held at Rotary Park in Clarksville from 10 AM-3 PM. Activities include games, vendors, inflatables, a smash car, and more. http://clarksvillenow.com/events/#/details/Spring-Fling-at-Rotary-Park/1304993/2015-04-04T10
Fort Knox
Underwater Egg Hunt, April 4: This event is held at the Andersen indoor pool from 9:30 AM-12:30 PM. Kids can experience a unique egg hunt by searching for eggs underwater in the pool. Other activities include games and pictures with the Easter bunny. Cost is $5 per child. http://www.knoxmwr.com/Portals/0/eventGallery/15-04-04_pool-egg-hunt.jpg
Hooray for Heroes, May 16: This free event is held in the parking lot of Stithton Baptist Church in Radcliff from 11 AM-4 PM. Hooray for Heroes is designed specifically to honor all members of the military, active and reserve, their families and first responders. Activities include vendors with free giveaways, bounce houses, free lunch, games, balloons, clowns, and more. http://hoorayforheroes.org/
Louisiana
Fort Polk
Mayfest, May 1-2: Mayfest is held in downtown Leesville and includes activities like a 5k race, a pancake breakfast, chalk painting, and more. http://www.venturevernon.com/MayfestPage.html
Maine
USAREC – New England Battalion
Children’s Day, May 3: This event takes place in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire from 12-4 PM. Children and their parents follow a scavenger hunt map of Portsmouth filled with different activities, a Block Party, live entertainment, ice cream sundaes, and more. http://www.proportsmouth.org/whatisChildrensDay.cfm
Maryland
Aberdeen Proving Ground
Rockfield Manor’s Easter Egg Hunt, March 28: This event will be held at Rockfield Manor in Bel Air from 11 AM-1 PM. Admission is $5 per family. http://www.belairmd.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=995&day=11&month=3&year=2015&calType=0
Kite Festival, April 11: This free event will be held at Rockfield Park from 10 AM- 4 PM. Enjoy kite flying for kids of all ages. http://www.belairmd.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=1644&day=11&month=4&year=2015&calType=0
Fort Detrick
Easter Egg Roll, April 4: This event will be held at the Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums in Fredrick from 11 AM- 4 PM. Activities include egg hunts, games and crafts, inflatables, petting zoo, hay rides, mazes and much more. Admission is $5 per person. http://recreater.com/544/Easter-Egg-Roll
Mountainside Spring Fest, April 18: This event will be held at Mountainside summer camp in Urbana beginning at 10 AM. Activities include live music, hands-on projects, ropes courses, a giant slide, and more. http://www.childguidemagazine.com/content/mountainside-spring-fest-0
Fort Meade
Family Fun Fair, April 25: This free event will be held at Burba Lake Recreational Area from 9 AM- 3 PM. Activities include a concert by the US Army Field Band, a youth fishing expo, scavenger hunt, pony rides, and much more. http://www.ftmeademwr.com/newsletter/2015/MKT%20INSERT%20MAR%202015%20BINDER%20COMBO.pdf
USAREC – Baltimore Battalion
Bunny Bonanzoo, April 3-5: This event, held at the Baltimore Zoo, takes place from 10 AM- 2 PM each day. Activities include games, crafts, live entertainment, egg hunts, zoo enrichment talks, and more. Entry to the event is included in the price of admission to the zoo. http://www.marylandzoo.org/event/mary-sue-candies-bunny-bonanzoo/
Privateer Festival, April 18-19: This event takes place in the Fell’s Point neighborhood in Baltimore. Activities include living history, live music and dance performances, kids’ activities including an inflatable pirate ship, dockside boat tours, and more. http://www.fellspointmainstreet.org/privateerfestivalold.htm
Massachusetts
Fort Devens
Winterfest, March 28: This event, held at the Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, takes place from 12-5 PM. Lots of hills and forest trails are available for sledding, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. The event is free with the purchase of admission to the museum. http://fruitlands.org/winterfest2015
Cambridge Science Festival, April 17-26: This event will be held in many different venues in the city of Cambridge. The festival is designed around engaging people with science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through over 100 different activities and events held over ten days. http://www.cambridgesciencefestival.org/Home.aspx
Michigan
USAREC – Great Lakes Battalion
Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival, April 24-26: This event, held in the town of Vermontville, features activities such as rides, arts and crafts, two parades, a flea market, a pancake derby, an arm wrestling contest, and more. http://www.vermontvillemaplesyrupfestival.org/
Victorian Days, May 2-3: This free event, held in Grand Ledge, takes place from 10 AM-5 PM each day. Events include Civil War reenactments, a Maypole dance, guided walking tours, tea parties, arts and crafts, carriage rides, and more. http://www.victoriandays.org/home.html
Detroit Arsenal
Bunnyville, April 3-4: This event is held at the Detroit Zoo from 9 AM-4 PM each day. Activities include egg hunts, a jelly bean jamboree, crafts, face painting, pictures with the Easter bunny and more. Each person who brings a canned good for donation will receive a reduced admission fee of $8. http://www.detroitzoo.org/Events/bunnyville
Minnesota
USAREC – Minneapolis Battalion
Easter Egg Hunt, April 4: This event takes place at the James J Hill House in St Paul from 10-11 AM. Activities at this event are for children ages 2-7 and include an outdoor egg hunt on the house’s lawn, snacks, story time, and a chance to explore the house. Admission is $6 per person and pre-registration is strongly encouraged. http://events.mnhs.org/calendar/Results.cfm?EventID=4182&CFID=39905248&CFTOKEN=6632dbc982a21d37-1F579CF4-5056-9350-3AB955A4ACA39DBE
May Day Parade and Festival, May 3: The May Day Parade takes place on Bloomington Avenue in South Minneapolis at 12 PM with the Festival following in Powderhorn Park at approximately 2 PM. The festival features music, dancing, poetry, food, canoe rides, and more. All events connected with May Day are free. http://hobt.org/mayday/
Missouri
Fort Leonard Wood
Flashlight Egg Hunt, April 3: This free event takes place at Colyer Park starting at 8:30 PM. Bring a flashlight and basket and challenge your friends or parents to see who can find the most eggs in the dark. Participants must be 13 or older. http://www.fortleonardwoodmwr.com/images/april/3APR15-Night-EggHunt.gif
Cherry Blossom Kite Festival, April 11: This free event will be held from 11 AM- 3 PM at the Botanical Center at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park in Springfield. Activities include kite making and flying, free admission to the Japanese Garden, and activities celebrating Japanese culture and Springfield’s sister city, Isesaki, Japan. http://www.springfieldmo.org/events/36194/cherry-blossom-kite-festival
USAREC – Kansas City Battalion
Egg-stravaganza, April 3-4: This event is held at the Kansas City Zoo from 10 AM-3 PM each day. Children participate in a scavenger hunt throughout the zoo to find all the zoo animals that lay eggs. http://www.kansascityzoo.org//node/1375
Gatsby Days, April 24-26: This event is held at the Hall of Waters & Cultural Museum in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. Gatsby Days celebrates F Scott Fitzgerald’s famous book “The Great Gatsby” by holding events centered around the culture of the 1920s. The event kicks off with a vaudeville review. https://www.visitkc.com/event-detail/gatsby-days?cid=18622
Nevada
USAREC – 6th Medical Recruiting Battalion
Flip Through Summer Family Fun Summer Kickoff, May 16: This event will be held at Springs Preserve in Las Vegas from 10 AM-1 PM. Activities include book nooks themed after favorite storybook characters, a book swap, free ice cream, face painting, and more. http://uwsn.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015-Flip-Through-Summer-Attendee-Flyer-new.pdf
New Jersey
JB McGuire-Dix-Lakenhurst
Joint Base Easter Egg Hunt, March 28: This free event will be held at John Mann Park from 12-3:30 PM. Activities include Easter egg hunts for kids 12 and younger, goodie bags, face painting, an Easter Bonnet/Handsome Hat contest, a magician and more. http://gomdl.com/2015/03/annualiointbaseeasteregghunt/
Lakehurst Kiddie Fishing Derby, May 9: This free event will be held at Pickerel Lake from 8 AM-12:30 PM. Awards will be presented for largest fish caught in each age group. Lunch will be provided. http://gomdl.com/2015/03/annual-kiddie-fishing-derby-at-jb-mdl-lakehurst/
Picatinny Arsenal
Easter Egg Hunt, March 28: This free event will be held at JFK Commons Park in Dover starting at 10 AM. Children ages 2-10 can hunt for eggs, visit the Easter bunny, and win candy and prizes. http://www.dover.nj.us/Documents/Easter%20Egg%20Hunt%202015.pdf
USAREC – Mid-Atlantic Battalion
Easter Egg Hunt, March 28: This event will be held at Lake Horicon in Lakehurst. The event starts at 11 AM and is for children 7 and younger. http://www.lakehurstnj.org/COMMUNITY_EVENTS.pdf
Lakehurst Kiddie Fishing Derby, May 9: This free event will be held at Pickerel Lake from 8 AM-12:30 PM. Awards will be presented for largest fish caught in each age group. Lunch will be provided. http://gomdl.com/2015/03/annual-kiddie-fishing-derby-at-jb-mdl-lakehurst/
New Mexico
White Sands Missile Range
Easter in the Park, April 4: This free event will be held at Alameda Park in Alamogordo from 10 AM-1 PM. Activities include egg hunts for ages 8 and younger, costume contest, games, a parade, and more. http://ci.alamogordo.nm.us/coa/communityservices/specialevents/EIP.htm
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, May 5: This event will be held in the plaza in Old Mesilla. This festival celebrates Mexican culture through live music, arts and crafts, food, and more. http://www.meetlascruces.com/Las-Cruces-Events-and-Festivals.html
New York
Fort Drum
Easter Eggstravaganza, March 21: This event has two parts! From 11 AM-1 PM, you can enjoy storytime and a craft at the Jefferson County Historical Society. From 1:30-3 PM, an Easter egg hunt will be held at Watertown Ice Arena. A donation of $5 to the Historical Society is suggested. http://www.jeffersoncountyhistory.org/
Maple Weekend, March 21-22 & 28-29: This event takes place at various maple sugar farms throughout the Fort Drum/Watertown area. Participants can learn about tapping trees and making maple syrup, sample freshly made maple syrup, candies, and other treats, and participate in other events such as wagon rides or snowshoeing at some of the participating farms. http://www.nysmaple.com/nys-maple-weekend
Fort Hamilton
Barnyard Egg Hunt, April 4: This event will take place at the Queens County Farm Museum from 12-4 PM. Events include egg hunts, egg tossing and rolling games, visits with the farm animals, hayrides, and more. Admission is $5 per person. http://www.queensfarm.org/events.html
Sakura Matsuri, April 25-26: This event will be held at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden from 10 AM-6 PM. Activities include Taiko drumming, Japanese tea ceremonies, Samurai sword fighting, Bonsai kids’ workshops, and more. http://www.bbg.org/visit/event/sakura_matsuri_2015
USAREC – Albany Battalion
Albany Tulip Festival, May 9-10: This free event will be held in Washington Park in Albany. Activities include live music, food, the Royal Tulip Ball, kids’ activities, and over 150 kinds of tulips. http://www.albany.com/news/tulip-festival.cfm
Waterford Canal Festival, May 16: This free event will be held at the Waterford Harbor Promenade and Lock 2 Park from 9:30 AM-6 PM. Activities include live music, children’s activities, face painting, and more. http://www.waterfordcanalfest.com/
USAREC – New York City Battalion
Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival, April 5: The Easter Parade takes place on 5th Avenue in New York City with the best viewing in front of St Patrick’s Cathedral. The festival following the parade takes place from 10 AM-4 PM. http://gonyc.about.com/cs/holidays/a/easter.htm
Bloomfest, April 19: This free event takes place at Branch Brook Park in Newark from 11 AM- 5 PM. Activities include Japanese cultural demonstrations, children’s activities, live music, food, and more. http://www.essexcountyparks.org/parks/branch-brook-park/calendar/bloomfest
USAREC – Syracuse Battalion
CNY Maple Festival, March 21-22: This free event will take place at the CNY Maple Festival Grounds in Marathon. Activities include food, live music, crafts, family fun, rides, and more. http://events.visitsyracuse.org/view/8601/cny-maple-festival-2015
Party for the Planet, April 18: This event will take place at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse. Activities include endangered animal demonstrations, keeper talks, and more. http://events.visitsyracuse.org/view/7920/party-for-the-planet
North Carolina
Fort Bragg
Easter Carnival, March 28: This free event will be held at the Tolson Youth Activities Center from 1-3 PM. Activities include food, carnival games and prizes, pictures with the Easter bunny, a candy hunt, and more. http://www.fortbraggmwr.com/flyersMWR/eastercarnival2015.jpg?3de778
Teen Flashlight Candy Hunt, March 28: This free event will be held at the Tolson Youth Activities Center starting at 7 PM. This event is for teens in 9th-12th grades. http://www.fortbraggmwr.com/flyersMWR/tolsonteencandyhunt.jpg?3de778
Springfest, April 18: This free event will be held on Dickson Street in Fayetteville. Activities include a 5k run, live music, arts and crafts, and more. http://fayettevillespringfest.com/2014/12/springfest-2015-set-for-april-18/
USAREC – Raleigh Battalion
Easter Egg Hunt, April 4: This free event will be held at the Crossroads Plaza in Cary. Activities include egg hunts, face painting, balloon art, crafts, and more. http://www.visitraleigh.com/includes/calendar-of-events/Annual-Easter-Egg-Hunt/31780/
Wake Forest Dirt Day, April 4: This event will be held on historic South White Street in downtown Wake Forest from 10 AM-3 PM. Activities include demonstrations on a variety of outdoor interests, a children’s area with free hands-on activities, live music and entertainment. http://www.visitraleigh.com/includes/calendar-of-events/Wake-Forest-Dirt-Day/32013/
Ohio
USAREC – Cleveland Battalion
Bowl with the Bunny, March 22: This event is held at Rosewood Lanes bowling alley in Oakwood Village from 2-4 PM. Activities include unlimited bowling and shoe rental for all ages, music, games, and prizes. Admission is $8 per person. http://roselandlanes.com/upcoming-events/
Dyngus Day, April 6: This event is centered around Detroit Avenue in Cleveland and kicks off at 6 PM with the accordion parade. Other activities include Polish food, live polka bands, the Dyngus dog pageant and more. http://www.clevelanddyngus.com/index.htm
USAREC – Columbus Battalion
Starry Night Festival, April 12: This free event takes place at Westerville North High School from 2-6 PM. Activities center around science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM). http://westervillepartnersforeducation.org/starry-night/
Earth Day Celebration, April 25: This event will run from 1-10 PM at Columbus Commons. Activities include local bands, food trucks, kids’ activities, environmental groups and businesses, and more. http://www.greencbus.org/BookingRetrieve.aspx?ID=26368
Oklahoma
Fort Sill
Easter Egg Hunt, April 4: This event will be held at Cowan Field on Fort Sill from 11 AM-2 PM.