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Spring time flowers bloom bright in the western sun, boats travel freely in the blue Bay waters, and as expected, families gather in anxious anticipation of the upcoming Easter activities. It’s time to celebrate, Easter is here!
Easter traditions are as ubiquitous as the hills that grace the streets and avenues of San Francisco. What stemmed from pagan roots has now turned into a traditional Christian-based holiday, one with unique symbolism and festive overtones. The egg and the bunny, two modern day symbols of Easter, are connected to the Earth and represent fertility. The pastel colors and baskets laced with grass and sweet candy represent the coming of spring.
San Francisco has never been short on family events, and Easter is certainly no exception. Union Street, the premier shopping district of San Francisco, will be host to the annual Easter Parade and Spring Celebration with the parade itself at 2pm. This wacky and wonderful event has been called the “Biggest Little Parade in San Francisco” and will be host to a variety of teen friendly activities including inflatable bounces, carnival rides and games, a petting zoo with live bunnies and a large variety of costumed characters. The parade itself will please your family; an entertaining display of mini-floats, roller blading animals, sophisticated fashion and a fine display of classic cars. The Union Street merchants will put on a fantastic show. Come join them in this diverse celebration!
Easter in San Francisco also reflects the cultural heritage of the Old World. The Italians have celebrated food for centuries and what goes better with Easter than a merry feast. Experience North Beach during the Easter holiday with its wide selection of deli and bakery goods including Perugina chocolate Easter eggs and traditional panettone imported from the lavish Italian hillsides. The latter is a traditional Italian sweet in the shape of a dove or lamb - a mix of light sponge with eggs, saffron and raisons all covered with veiling sugar. The teens will love this sweet delight and adults with enjoy the accompanying glass of wine. The expression “Natale con i suoi, Pasqua con chi vuoi” will be heard throughout this region of the Bay area during the Easter holiday. Literally it means, “Christmas with your family, Easter with your own choice of friends.”
The historical Dunsmuir Estate in Oakland will be host to an egg hunt, decorating, a visit from the Easter bunny, egg citing traditional games and tours of the mansion proper. This thirty-seven room Neoclassical Revival mansion was built in 1899 and set upon fifty acres of lush gardens and grassy areas. Perfect for an Easter egg hunt! Self-guided tours are also available on Tuesdays-Fridays from 10am-4pm.
Easter services will also be plentiful in the San Francisco area. The Unity San Francisco church will host an Easter Celebration at the Herbst Theatre. The theme, “Miracle of Life,” will be a unique ceremony allowing spiritual growth for all denominations. A sunrise service will be available at the foot of the nation’s largest cross at the top of Mt. Davidson. At 938 feet, Mt. Davidson is the highest “hill” in San Francisco and named after George Davidson, the geologist who first surveyed this site. Activities planned include a sunrise service, music and guest speakers. Be sure to dress your children appropriate and prepare them for a short walk to the summit.
Finally, what would Easter in San Francisco be without the Sunday brunch? The Easter bunny will check into the Ritz-Carlton to prepare the festive activities. His first priority…tea with the children. The “Easter Bunny Tea” will include hot chocolate with sweet marshmallows, cookies shaped in traditional Easter symbols, sandwiches and candy. The bunny will also read to the children and present them with a small gift.
Hippity hop on down to San Francisco for true Easter delights. Union Street will be teaming with festive spirit; Easter ideals will be parading past you and springtime celebrations will be evident. North Beach will give you that Old World feel and tasty treats that are truly Italian. Don’t forget the numerous brunches on offer and check out the Easter bunny at the Ritz. Most of all, enjoy yourself and give your teens the Easter they deserve – San Francisco style!
Location: Various
When: Easter
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