The 16th Annual Wamac Easter Egg Hunt is set to take place on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2024, at Wamac City Park. Local officials are calling for community support in the form of donations, including bicycles, Easter baskets, and toys, to ensure the event’s success. Mayor Butch Mathus expressed gratitude for the volunteers but emphasized the need for additional items to enhance the experience for children.
The Wamac City Council recently purchased 15,000 plastic eggs from Sunny Bunny Easter Eggs for $2,235. The festivities will kick off at 1 p.m., and families are encouraged to arrive at least an hour early to secure tickets for their children’s age groups. Currently, organizers are preparing 700 gift bags for participants.
Mathus noted the event’s growth, stating, “Each year gets bigger and bigger. I remember when all we had were 3,000 eggs.” This year, the hunt will feature 5,000 eggs divided among three age groups: 0-4, 5-8, and 9-12. The initiative began after the disbandment of the Centralia Jacees, which had previously organized similar events.
“The community decided we needed an Easter egg hunt, and they agreed,” Mathus explained. What started as a small gathering has now transformed into a large-scale event, attracting families from surrounding areas, including Salem, Mount Vernon, and Irvington. Mathus even recalled a family from Ohio that participated for several years.
The Easter Egg Hunt is designed to be accessible to all children. “We will turn away no child. Remember, it is all for the kids,” Mathus affirmed. The mayor expressed appreciation for the community’s support, stating, “The support from the community has been great. Tip of the hat for everybody.”
As the event approaches, organizers continue to seek a variety of donations, including different-sized boxes and wagons. The emphasis remains on creating a joyous experience for children and families alike, highlighting the role of community involvement in making the hunt a cherished tradition.
