Families across south central Ohio are preparing for a season of spring fun as Easter Sunday arrives on April 5, 2026. Public Easter egg hunts continue as a cherished local tradition, giving children and families free or low cost chances to enjoy community gatherings, prizes and outdoor activities. From parks in Chillicothe to downtown shops in Washington Court House and scenic spots in the Hocking Hills, events in Ross County and the seven adjacent counties of Fayette, Highland, Hocking, Jackson, Pickaway, Pike and Vinton welcome all ages with age grouped hunts, raffles and more.
Ross County:
The Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library Richmond Dale Branch annual Easter egg hunt takes place Friday, April 3, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the library lawn, 770 Main Street, Richmond Dale. It is open to children ages 2 to 12.
Pickaway County:
The 65th annual Ashville Easter egg hunt is scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Ashville Community Park, 165 Walnut Street, Ashville. Age groups include 0 to 3, 4 to 5, 6 to 7 and 8 and older with prizes such as a bike raffle and OSU tickets.
Pike County:
The Piketon Nursing Center egg hunt is Thursday, April 3, 2026, at noon at the Piketon Nursing Center.
The 2nd annual Advancing Abilities egg hunt runs Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Pike County YMCA, 400 Pride Drive, Waverly.
The 23 Southbound Flea Market egg hunt starts Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 12 p.m. in Piketon with age grouped hunts.
Vinton County:
The annual Easter egg hunt at Lake Hope State Park is Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Nature Center, 27331 OH 278 near McArthur. Open to ages 0 to 18, children collect candy filled eggs and tokens for prizes at the prize table. Arrive early because eggs disappear quickly and parking fills fast.
The Vinton Community Park egg hunt hosted by Pinnacle Church is Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Vinton Community Park in the McArthur area.
Jackson County:
The Kiwanis Club of the Jackson Area community Easter egg hunt is Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Manpower Park in Jackson.
The SAL Wellston Post 371 Easter egg hunt is Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 12 p.m. with check in from 10:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Wellston High School baseball park in Wellston.
Highland County:
The Hillsboro House of Deliverance Easter Eggstravaganza is Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 230 West South Street in Hillsboro.
Fayette County:
The Main Street Fayette downtown Easter shop hop and egg hunt runs Saturday, April 4, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. in downtown Washington Court House. The egg hunt begins around 12:30 p.m. with eggs hidden in businesses for prizes. Horse and wagon rides and Easter Bunny photos are available from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Hocking County:
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Easter Bunny train and egg hunt departs Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. from the Nelsonville depot. The ticketed event includes a train ride, a stop for an egg hunt with prizes and candy, and a meet and greet with the Easter Bunny.
South central Ohio communities have planned these public Easter egg hunts to bring families together for safe, enjoyable spring activities. Most events are free, but organizers recommend checking directly with hosts for any weather related changes, exact start times or registration needs. Bring your own basket and get ready for some egg cellent memories.
