Colleyville, Texas

     Colleyville, Texas…While consumed with relentless abandon in other places, chocolate bunnies, marshmallow Peeps, and countless jelly bellies once again will find a haven in Colleyville this season. For the second year, the city’s Parks and Recreation Department will host a candy-free egg hunt in response to rising childhood obesity rates and to promote healthy lifestyles. The free event is scheduled Saturday, March 15, at Colleyville’s City Park. Geared toward children ages infant to 9, the event’s hours are from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

      Chocolate and marshmallow candies may be banned, but the famed “egg” will still be a central part of the holiday hunting festivities. These eggs will be filled with a variety of toys, including special prize- eggs for all age groups. Other activities include inflatables, games, a petting zoo, and a visit from the Easter bunny…though not of the chocolate variety. The first 50 participants to complete the candy-free, Health Zone Challenge will receive prizes.

      “When we introduced the candy-free egg hunt last year, we weren’t certain how it would be received. It turned out to be one of our most popular events. And the kids didn’t even miss the candy, which goes to show the power of setting a good example,” remarked Luke DeFilippis, Colleyville recreation supervisor.

      According to the National Confectioners Association, Americans buy more than 700 million Peeps and consume 90 million chocolate bunnies, along with more than 16 billion jelly beans during the Easter season. The American Obesity Association reports that more than 30 percent of American children are overweight and more than 15 percent are obese. Poor dietary habits and inactivity are cited as the major contributors to the increase of childhood obesity.

      City Park is located at 5109 Bransford Road in Colleyville. For more information, contact Luke DeFilippis at 817.503.1183.