Easter in Paradise: Your 2026 Southwest Florida Family Guide

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Easter weekend in Southwest Florida is a magical time. With the 2026 red tide outlook looking clear and the spring weather at its peak, families have an incredible array of activities to choose from across the coast. From sunrise services on the sand to unique aquatic egg hunts, here is your guide to celebrating Easter in Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, Fort Myers, and Naples.

Bradenton & Anna Maria Island

The Bradenton area offers a mix of high-energy adventure and classic coastal traditions.

• Easter Egg Hunt at TreeUmph! Adventure Course: For families with active kids and teens, head to East State Road 70 on Sunday, April 5. While navigating the ropes courses and ziplines, participants can hunt for hidden eggs and special hanging prizes tucked throughout the canopy.
• Hunsader Farms Easter Egg Hunt: On Friday, April 3 and Saturday, April 4, Hunsader Farms in Bradenton hosts its annual celebration featuring a “Candy Cannon” that launches treats for the kids. The farm also offers hayrides and a petting zoo, making it a perfect all-day outing.
• Anna Maria Island Sunrise Service: For a spiritual start to the day, join the 54th annual sunrise service at Manatee County Public Beach in Holmes Beach. The service begins at 6:30 AM on April 5. Bring a beach chair and enjoy the morning light over the Gulf of Mexico.+1

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Sarasota

Sarasota blends community-focused festivals with world-class dining.

• The Children’s Garden Egg Hunt: Located at 1670 10th Way, this enchanted garden hosts its annual hunt on Saturday, April 4 at 10:00 AM. It’s a whimsical setting where kids “hop down the Bunny Trail” to find treats among the statues and flowers.
• Easter Bash at The Flock SRQ: On Friday afternoon, April 3, families can head to The Flock for an age-appropriate egg hunt and festive games.
• Easter Brunch at Michael’s On East: For a more formal celebration, Michael’s On East in Sarasota offers a legendary brunch buffet on Sunday, April 5 from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. It’s highly popular, so reservations are a must for their carving stations and spring-inspired desserts.

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Venice

Venice is known for its community charm, and its Easter events reflect that tight-knit spirit.

• Venice MainStreet Egg Hunt: On Saturday, April 4, Centennial Park in the heart of historic downtown Venice transforms into a hunting ground. Starting at 10:00 AM, children can hunt for eggs and take photos with the Easter Bunny.
• Power Wheels Race & Egg Hunt: For a unique twist, check out the celebration at 2247 Tamiami Trail South on March 28 or April 4 (check local listings for the final weekend race). It combines a traditional hunt with a high-energy “Power Wheels” race for the little ones.

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Fort Myers

Fort Myers is pulling out all the stops this year with city-wide scavenger hunts and historic parades.

• 6th Annual Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt: Running through Easter Sunday, April 5, this self-paced scavenger hunt takes families through Downtown Fort Myers. Locate 14 chalk-art eggs hidden in storefronts to solve a word puzzle and win prizes.
• 82nd Annual Dunbar Easter Parade: A true local tradition, this parade takes place on Sunday, April 5. It’s a vibrant celebration of community and culture that winds through the heart of the Dunbar neighborhood.
• Fort Myers Beach Sunrise Service: Head to Newton Park (4650 Estero Blvd) on Sunday at 6:45 AM for a motivational sunrise service right on the sand.

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Naples

Naples offers some of the most creative Easter activities, including events specifically designed for inclusivity.

• Aquatic Egg Hunt at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon: On Saturday, March 28, children ages 1–13 can dive for eggs in the pool or participate in a dryland hunt. It’s a great way to cool off while celebrating.
• EGG-stra Special Egg Hunt: Hosted at Golden Gate Community Park, this is a free, inclusive event designed for children of all abilities. It features accessible activities and multiple hunt times to ensure everyone can join the fun.
• Naples Pier Sunrise Service: A staple for many families, the service at the Naples Pier typically begins at 7:00 AM on Sunday. The views of the pier against the morning sun make for an unforgettable Easter memory.

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Quick Planning Table

City	Key Location	Main Activity	Date
Bradenton	Manatee Public Beach	Sunrise Service	April 5 (6:30 AM)
Sarasota	The Children’s Garden	Garden Egg Hunt	April 4 (10:00 AM)
Venice	Centennial Park	MainStreet Egg Hunt	April 4 (10:00 AM)
Fort Myers	Downtown	Scavenger Hunt	Ends April 5
Naples	Golden Gate Park	Inclusive Egg Hunt	March 28 / April 4

Whether you are looking for a quiet morning on the beach or a high-energy hunt in the park, Southwest Florida is the place to be this Easter. Happy hunting!

Easter Sunday Dining: Top Local Picks

After a morning of egg hunts and beach services, enjoy a relaxed family meal at one of these standout locations. Reservations are highly recommended for Easter Sunday.

Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch

• Pier 22 (Bradenton): Known for its stunning Manatee River views, Pier 22 is hosting a massive Easter Brunch Buffet from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Expect a spread of carved prime rib, southern shrimp and grits, and a build-your-own omelet station ($70 for adults; $25 for kids under 10).
• GROVE (Lakewood Ranch): If you want a festive atmosphere for the little ones, GROVE is the place to be. Their brunch buffet includes a special visit from the Easter Bunny for family photos. The menu features a mashed potato bar, sushi, and a dedicated kids’ station ($70 for adults; $25 for kids under 10).+1

Sarasota

• Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse: For a more refined experience, Fleming’s is offering a 2-Course Easter Weekend Brunch starting at $38 per guest. Signature items include a Sliced Tenderloin & French Onion Frittata and a Shellfish Louie Salad.
• Connors Steak & Seafood: A local favorite in South Sarasota, Connors offers its full menu of prime steaks and fresh local catches like Grouper and Sea Bass in a polished, family-friendly setting.

Venice

• Cafe Venice: This downtown staple is offering a curated Easter Menu featuring classic Baked Ham with pineapple salsa, Mustard and Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb, and Pan-Seared Grouper.
• Crow’s Nest Restaurant & Marina: Enjoy a view of the Venice Inlet while dining on holiday specials like Slow-Roasted Prime Rib (14 oz. cut) or a Traditional Easter Ham with fig jam.

Fort Myers

• Cristof’s on McGregor: This charming spot on McGregor Blvd is serving an Easter Buffet from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. It’s a great value for families ($49.95 for adults; $18.95 for kids) and offers a beautiful garden-style seating area.
• Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort: For a grand celebration, their ballroom brunch runs from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM. It’s an expansive buffet with breathtaking harbor views ($75 for adults; $40 for kids).

Naples

• The Turtle Club: For the ultimate “toes in the sand” experience, The Turtle Club offers a seafood-focused brunch right on the beach. It is one of the most sought-after reservations in Naples for the holiday.
• Campiello: Located in the heart of Third Street South, Campiello provides a sophisticated Italian-inspired Easter feast, perfect for families who want to enjoy the historic district’s atmosphere after dinner.

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Easter Weekend Quick Reference (April 5, 2026)

City	Brunch/Dinner Highlight	Price Range (Adult)	Feature
Bradenton	Pier 22	$70+	Waterfront Views
Sarasota	GROVE	$70+	Easter Bunny Photos
Venice	Cafe Venice	$25 – $48	Downtown Atmosphere
Fort Myers	Cristof’s on McGregor	$49.95	Garden Seating
Naples	The Turtle Club	Market Price	Beachfront Dining