Egg hunt draws hundreds to fairgrounds

The Sanders County Fairgrounds was littered with 8,922 Easter eggs just waiting to be found by almost 300 very eager searchers on Sunday.

The hunt this year was moved from the pool park in Plains to the fairgrounds, providing the event more space to hide eggs and a safer location for the little egg hunters. 

Event organizer Jessica Peterson said she was thankful to Sanders County Fair Manager Kristy Sheehan for offering the site with hopes of continuing the event there in 2025. 

“It’s a bigger venue and is better for the kids," Peterson said.

Stuffed in each of the eggs was the usual candy treats and special prize tags were found within 10 eggs in each age group. Special prizes were donated by local businesses including two bicycles from First Security Bank of Plains found in the 5 to 6-year age group and the 7-to-8-year age group. 

Bank manager Brian Crain said, “The First Security Bank has donated bicycles for over 10 years to the Easter egg hunt.” 

Lions Club again donated over $300 in prizes. 

Lion’s Club President Steve Spurr said, “I am excited to have the Easter egg hunt at the fairgrounds this year.” 

The following businesses and organizations donated items for the hunt: The Church on the Move, Plains Bible Church, Plains Alliance Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Rocky Mountain Surveyors, First State Bank, Wild plains Nursery, Mountain West Clothing, Studds, Farmer Insurance (Tiffani Sheehan), HOPA Mountain Foundation, who donated age-appropriate books to the children and Mt West Dentist.

A lot of effort behind the scenes needed to take place before the Easter hunt could take place. Sixty people participated in stuffing the thousands of eggs, which took over three hours. An additional hour was required to hide the many eggs. 

This year’s Easter Bunny was Ruthie Noble.

Easter egg hunters were spilt into five groups. Ages up to 4, and 5 through 7, 8 through 12, and 13 through 17, and the adult group. The adult group had 49 participants willing to risk the stampede.

The winner of the first bicycle was 5-year-old Plains resident Brayden Adkins. The second bicycle went to a 6-year-old Plains child who asked not to be identified.

    Who said the rush for Easter eggs was only for kids? (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Bicycle winner Brayden Adkins, 5, from Plains. First Security Bank of Plains donated the bikes. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Easter egg hunt organizer Jessica Peterson. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Easter egg hunters fill their baskets. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)