Community Egg-citement at Hattiesburg Zoo’s Annual Egg Hunt
HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - This Easter Sunday, the Hattiesburg Zoo transformed into a whimsical wonderland as families gathered for the highly anticipated Eggz-otic Egg Hunt. This exciting annual event drew in the community, igniting a sense of competition and joy among participants.
The egg hunt involved hundreds of golden eggs hidden throughout the zoo, creating an atmosphere of excitement and friendly rivalry. Demetric Kelly, the zoo's Guest Services/Retail director, expressed the growing challenge of the event. "The eggs are very hard to find, so it’s almost like a competition now," Kelly said, setting the tone for the eager hunters.
Indeed, the hunt proved to be a thrilling adventure as participants shared their remarkable finds. Noah Lee, one of the younger hunters, recounted a delightful discovery, saying, "I found one in a car." His fellow participant, Brianna Lee, added to the excitement by describing her double-find: "First, I found one of my eggs in the rock area where you can find different, cool rocks, and then I found another one in the bushes." Such joyous stories reflect the spirits of both the young and the young at heart during this festive occasion.
Each golden egg contained a number linked to a specific prize, ensuring that every participant left with a smile. Children expressed their glee about winning various treats and experiences. Noah shared, "I got an ice cream and popsicle card and a train ride," while Brianna beamed about her prizes, stating, "I got a card to go on the High Ropes, and then I got a card to eat dessert and lunch." The variety of awards not only made the hunt thrilling but also catered to a range of interests, from games to sugary treats.
Avery Babb, another enthusiastic participant, enthusiastically conveyed her delight in winning a unique prize: "I won a popsicle thing where we can get a popsicle, or a Dole Whip, and I got a beach ball and a llama sticker." Such rewards add an extra layer of joy to the event, confirming that the hunt is about more than just finding eggs—it's about creating cherished memories with family and friends.
Kelly noted the skill of the zoo staff in concealing the eggs, mentioning that it’s not uncommon for some to be left unfound by the end of the day. For the eggs that remained hidden, Kelly promised a second chance for eager hunters the following day, ensuring that no one left without the thrill of discovery.
The annual Eggz-otic Egg Hunt at Hattiesburg Zoo was not just an event; it was a celebration of community spirit, joy, and the magic of spring. As families shared laughter and excitement, the zoo became a hub of happiness, reminding everyone why such events are cherished traditions.
