Orlando at Easter

Question

Heading to Orlando over Easter with my two young kids - are big chocolate eggs a thing in the US? or do they have different sweet traditions? Thanks!

Answer

In the U.S., Easter traditions are a bit different from those in other countries, especially when it comes to sweets and treats. While big chocolate eggs aren't as common as they are in some European countries, there are plenty of other festive treats that kids will enjoy during Easter in Orlando.

Popular Easter Treats in the U.S.:

Chocolate Easter Eggs: While not as large as in some other countries, chocolate Easter eggs are still available, particularly in smaller sizes, filled with candy or other sweets. You can find these in most grocery stores or specialty shops.
Chocolate Bunnies: The most iconic Easter treat in the U.S. is the chocolate bunny. These are often sold in various sizes, from small ones in Easter baskets to large, decorative ones. They're usually made from milk or dark chocolate, and some have fillings like peanut butter or caramel.
Jelly Beans: Jelly beans are another Easter favorite, and they come in all sorts of flavors. They're commonly found in Easter baskets or as part of Easter egg hunts.
Marshmallow Peeps: These brightly colored, marshmallow treats in the shape of chicks or bunnies are a hallmark of U.S. Easter celebrations. They're often enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
Easter Egg Hunts: While not a sweet treat itself, the Easter egg hunt is a big part of the Easter tradition, especially for children. Plastic eggs filled with candies, coins, or small toys are hidden around parks, yards, or even inside homes for kids to find.

In Orlando, many of the theme parks, hotels, and shops will have special Easter events, including Easter egg hunts and chocolate-themed treats. You’ll likely find big Easter displays at places like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and local shops, all featuring a variety of sweets and Easter-themed snacks for the family.

Special Easter Activities in Orlando:

Easter Egg Hunts: Many local parks, malls, and resorts in Orlando host Easter egg hunts for kids, where they can search for eggs filled with candy or small prizes. Walt Disney World often has themed egg hunts, like the "Egg-stravaganza" hunt, where kids can find Easter eggs featuring Disney characters.
Special Easter Menus: Restaurants in Orlando will often offer special Easter brunch or dinner menus, featuring traditional Easter foods like lamb, ham, and special pastries.
Theme Park Events: If you’re visiting theme parks, there may also be special Easter parades or activities themed around the holiday. Disney especially goes all out with their Easter events.

In summary, while the large chocolate eggs may not be as much of a tradition in the U.S., there are still plenty of delicious sweets like chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, and marshmallow Peeps that make Easter a fun time for kids. You’ll also find plenty of Easter activities in Orlando to make the holiday even more special for your family!