Photo courtesy of JESHOOTS on Unsplash.

Oh April, how we’ve missed you! With the beginning of one of the state’s most glorious months, comes the beginning of Arizona’s must stunning season: spring. Think gorgeously-sunny temps, wildflowers morphing into otherworldly blooms and desert critters finally emerging from their deep burrows to greet the friendly weather and fresh life that graces Arizona’s endlessly-barren and mountainous landscape. And yes, spring in this state is truly that magical.

But one of the very best parts of April is Easter – a holiday that not only celebrates love, life and the undeniable power of human comradery, but one that also serves as the perfect excuse to get outside and enjoy this life with the people you value most. Though the holiday is celebrated internationally, there’s definitely an argument to why we think that Arizona is the very best place – though, we might be a little biased. With dozens of charming, family-friendly events sweeping the Valley in celebration of Easter, the blooming desert landscape serves as the perfect backdrop to the wide array of pastel-toned parties and heavenly church services that help to make this holiday a celebration to remember. Check out our roundup of some of the best ways – and a few of the best places – to celebrate Easter this year!

For our complete list of Easter brunches, click here.

 

Photo courtesy of Sophie Elvis on Unsplash.

Gelato with the Easter Bunny

at Luci’s at the Orchard

At some point in every person’s life, they’ve probably paid a visit to see the Easter Bunny himself. But few have probably had the chance to enjoy decadent ice cream scoops alongside Easter’s iconic animal character. On Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., guests are invited to celebrate the lovely holiday at Luci’s orchard lawn, where rumor has it the Easter Bunny will make an appearance to hand out eggs filled with candy and Splurge vouchers for a free kid’s scoop of ice cream. This event has us asking: can adults get in on this action too? For more information on this event, click here.

 

Photo courtesy of Micheile Henders on Unsplash.

“Egg-cellent” Easter Celebration

at Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa

On Easter Sunday, friends are invited to join a celebration that will feature a brunch buffet, live music, a glimpse of the resort’s larger-than-life Easter egg, live bunnies, a petting zoo and kiddos can join in on the Easter fun by participating in Mr. and Mrs. Cottontail’s 32nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Parents, no need to worry; there’s plenty of fun for you too. In fact, the famed Easter Brunch Buffet will serve up decadent entrees like Southwest eggs Florentine, brioche French toast, chilled Alaskan king crab legs, jumbo shrimp, mussels on the half-shell and smoked Scottish salmon – just to name a few. Also, did we mention that bottomless mimosas are included in adult admission fare? Ticket prices vary; the brunch will be served from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information on this event, click here.

 

 

Mad Hatter Tea

at the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

Some of the Valley’s hottest resorts are getting in on the Easter fun by offering a variety of unique dining options. At the Arizona Biltmore, guests can enjoy a unique and festive take on traditional afternoon tea with the Mad Hatter Tea. This festivity will be available at 12 p.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Enjoy tasty teas and flavorful pastry creations and sandwiches in a fun, themed environment. Prices are $75 for adults, with a glass of champagne included in the admission. Children 12 and under are $37.50, with admission including an Easter take-away. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Photo courtesy of JESHOOTS on Unsplash.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt & Breakfast

at Jake’s Unlimited

As if Jake’s Unlimited couldn’t get any more fun, now they’re playing host once again for their beloved Easter egg hunt and breakfast. Breakfast will include morning favorites like eggs, bacon, breakfast pizzas, pancakes, bagels, muffins and yes, mimosas and Bloody Marys for the parents. The egg hunt will give children the opportunity to fill up their baskets with prize-filled eggs to earn items like toys, candy and prizes – which might even include a free birthday party package. The fun doesn’t end after the egg hunt though, as rides and games will be open for all. Guests can even anticipate a visit from a very special guest. Hint: think bunnies. The egg hunt, breakfast and lunch buffet are available for $15 per person. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Easter Sunday Brunch at T. Cook’s

at Royal Palms

Think of a traditional Easter Sunday Brunch, but better and even more exquisite. That’s exactly what guests can enjoy at the Royal Palms Easter Brunch Buffet. With decadent décor and a fine twist on holiday buffet-favorites developed by Executive Chef Alex Robinson, this is the truly the brunch of our dreams. And for the kiddies, resort and brunch guests are invited to participate in the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Vernadero Lawn at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., where they can search for the golden egg prize that includes a one-night stay. A ticket to the buffet is $95 per person, $45 for children ages 6 to 12, and children 5 years and under are free. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Photo courtesy of Ankush Minda on Unsplash.

Easter Fest

at Desert Ridge Marketplace

Attendees can enjoy spring activities, face painting and more, all while basking in glorious 80 degree weather. Need we say any more to convince you to stop by this fest? Kiddos can also mingle with the Easter Bunny and snap a free downloadable photo with the bunny himself. Admire a festive 1,000+ balloon drop and embark on a challenging egg hunt – guests are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early to each event. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Brunch with the Easter Bunny

at Dave and Busters Tempe Marketplace

From 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, the Dave and Busters at Tempe Marketplace is hosting a super special Easter brunch that is fun for the entire family. Tickets are $23.50 per person and admission includes a breakfast buffet, mimosa station for adults, dessert, a $10 Power Card, a photo with the Easter Bunny, arts and crafts, and so much more. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Photo courtesy of Denisse Leon on Unsplash.

Breakfast with the Bunny at Hole-in-the-Wall

at Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort

Egg hunts with the Easter Bunny are so last year. And thanks to Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort, we have the chance to shake up mundane Easter traditions and enjoy cookie decorating and a proper breakfast with the famed hare himself. The breakfast will go from 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 20. Reservations are required. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Easter Bunny Express

at Verde Canyon Railroad

On April 20, visitors can await the appearance of everyone’s favorite hare, who will make his debut around noon at the station, doling out handfuls of treats and armloads of hugs before bidding farewell to guests on the train as it departs. And for all the adults, spring-fresh Bloody Marys will be served on board so that everyone can get in the Easter spirit. Admission ticket prices vary. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Easter Brunch Celebration

at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch

Pastries, dessert and omelet stations, a raw bar and a one-of-a-kind carving station – if there was ever a brunch of champions, this is it. On Easter Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch will transform into a festive, spring wonderland enjoyable for the whole family. Admission is $75 per person; $37.50 for children aged 5 to 12. Children under the age of 5 are free. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Easter Brunch

At Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort

Between four restaurants and seven chefs, it’s fair to assume that brunch at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is one for the ages. On Sunday, April 21, guests can indulge in a decadent brunch and then have access to complimentary Easter activities including photograph opportunities at the Mad Hadder Tea Party, a visit with the Easter Bunny, an adventurous egg hunt and a unique Bunnyland experience and Build a Bear Pop-up retail shop. The price for adult admission is $119 and $54 for children. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Photo courtesy of Sarah Takforya on Unsplash.

Easter Bunny Breakfast

at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Farm-fresh scrambled eggs, French toast, smoked bacon and crispy hash browns comprise this darling Easter breakfast. The kids can also take part in some festive crafts and decorate Easter cookies. The event will last from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and is $60 per adult, $35 per child ages 3 to 12. For more information on this event, click here.