City of Detroit continues its nearly 40-year spring tradition of Easter Fun Fest

• The General Services Department-Parks and Recreation Division hosts free family fun Easter Saturday event
• Heilmann Recreation Center transforms into Candy Land, the ultimate interactive carnival experience

The 80's tradition known as the Marshmallow Drop has evolved into the City of Detroit's annual Easter Fun Fest. On Saturday, April 8, 2023, Easter Fun Fest is making its 38th annual return to the Heilmann Recreation Center, led by the General Services Department-Parks and Recreation Division.  

"As a former member of the Parks and Recreation team for over 27 years, it is a pleasure to come full circle as one of the originators of the first Easter Fun Fest over 25 years ago, in continuing to provide safe, fun, and exciting activities for the citizens of the City of Detroit," said Phil Talbert, President of Total Access Events 

The 2023 spring festival is set to provide a fun and interactive free experience for the entire family within the City of Detroit.  

"We are thrilled to be continuing our annual tradition with our best-ever Easter Fun Fest," said Jasmine Barnes, the Chief of Policy and Engagement for the General Services Department. “You do not have to leave the city of Detroit to find your fun; we have it right here for you. And not just with large events. Detroiters can access quality and affordable recreation opportunities weekly throughout our city recreation centers “ 

Along with a 40-foot ferris wheel, there will be carnival rides and games, stilts characters, a candy castle, an Easter egg maze, a bike raffle, a kiddie disco, hustle lessons, recreation demos, Easter Bunny photo opportunities and much more fun for the entire family. Food Trucks will be on site with food and sweets for purchase. There will also be Detroit based small businesses and community organizations selling items and providing community resources.  

Although there is a significant emphasis on fun, safety is the top priority for festival-goers. Therefore, hand-sanitizing stations will be set up throughout the event, and those not feeling well are encouraged to stay home.  

"This is the second Easter Fun Fest since the pandemic and we've worked diligently with various city departments to ensure that all Easter Fun Fest participants have a safe and extraordinarily memorable time," said Taylor Harrell, Recreation Events and Permits Manager.   

You can join the Easter Candy Land carnival experience on Saturday, April 8, 2023, from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Heilmann Recreation Center located at 19601 Crusade Detroit, MI 48205.