For Easter in New York, the city is alive with culture: five boroughs
of ethnic diversity exists, each steeped in history from humble but productive
beginnings. Easter - colorful, as festive and exciting as the
greatest
Broadway production, it occupies a special place in the very core of
the Big Apple.
| Easter, like New York City itself, is laced with tradition, legend and historical significance. The ancient Anglo-Saxon word for Easter, “Eastre” refers directly to Ostara, the goddess of spring fertility and rising sun. Since the second century A.D., Easter has become a Christian-based holiday gradually incorporating the traditional symbols of spring: the egg and the rabbit. Both symbolized birth and fertility in ancient cultures including Egyptians, Persians, and Anglo-Saxons. The modern day egg hunts and Easter Parade also get their origin from these ancient customs. Medieval churchgoers, for example, would dress in fancy white robes and parade down village lanes after Easter mass with candles in hand. |
New York’s Easter Parade dates back as far as the Civil War era – a time of
national division and turmoil. In the beginning, the social elite of New York at
Easter
would dress in fancy wardrobes with extravagant Easter bonnets and attend one of
the more fashionable 5th Avenue churches such as
St. Patrick’s Cathedral. After
the services, the elite would parade the latest fashion trends and ride in
colorfully decorated horse-drawn carriages; on-lookers were in constant awe; the
elite waving their royal hands like queens and kings. The modern day version is
still about fashion and takes place from 10am – 4pm on March 27 along one of the
city’s most famous stretches, 5th Avenue from 49th to 57th Streets. A
kaleidoscope of sights will appear before your eyes: international outfits
ranging from the elegant to extreme eccentricity, civil war period dress,
bonnets of beautifully arranged flowers and pets dressed in the latest 5th
Avenue animal wear. There are a number of great viewing locations for the
family, but the platforms near the
St. Patrick’s Cathedral are rumored to be the
best. Take that last sip of coffee, get the kids out of the door and be there
for a prime New York Easter Parade viewing spectacle.
During the parade, why not venture into one of the historical churches for a
glimpse of history or participate in the variety of Easter services.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
is one of New York’s most attended and celebrated. Saint
Thomas Church and 5th Avenue Presbyterian Church will also hold Easter services.
Both are scheduled to host 3pm concerts within their grounds.
|
Don’t forget Central Park – New York’s best and the United States first urban landscaped park. Today, it is the major site of New Yorkers’ recreation and hosts millions of other visitors annually. It is also home to the Easter Eggstravaganza, the March 26 event located at the Bethesda Terrace and other select areas of the park. In total, forty acres of park will be used, hosting some of the best family events including Easter basket making, arts and crafts, athletic competitions, children’s entertainment a Greenmarket and seed planting activities. |
If it is an egg hunt you are searching for then look no further. The Queens County Farms’ Barnyard Easter Egg Hunt will be held on March 26 from 12pm-4pm. There will be numerous egg hunts throughout the day to meet families’ busy schedules. “Whiskers” the bunny will greet the children as they arrive and help them locate the hidden treasures. Children can also participate in egg rolling games, visit the farm animals and take a joyous hayride. Those families with busy March schedules can attend the April 18-19 Easter Bonnet Competition, a spring production organized by the companies of Broadway, Off-Broadway and national touring companies. This competition features a parade of colorful bonnets, personally hand-crafted by the casts and participating crews of the major productions. Come experience the glitter of Broadway with crisp and festive Easter overtones. Finally, satisfy your hunger at one of the many Easter brunches held throughout the city. Go up-scale at the Brasserie, the contemporary French restaurant on 53rd Street. Or how about American-style at the Rock Center Café? This entertaining restaurant features great children’s menus and affordable pricing.
|
Check New York Rates Now!! We've partnered with Hotels.com to bring you the lowest prices. |
New York is a center of world culture, and rightly so. Easter time is no
exception as numerous multicultural family activities are on offer. Check out
the latest fashion and Easter designs at the Annual Easter Day Parade, explore
Central Park with its multitude of family activities, and, most of all, relax
and enjoy the Big Apple and all of its springtime significance. You will be EGGSTATIC!
◄ The Waldorf Astoria is the Granddaddy of all hotels.
◄ Check Out the Statue of Liberty
Use New York City kids and make New York City fun for the kids...and you!
