Hop into spring with fun run

Easter is just one week away, and with Easter comes Odessa’s annual Easter Spring Fling, complete with a 5K fun run, an Easter egg hunt, and an appearance by Peter Cottontail.

The event, hosted by Odessa Parks and Recreation, will kick off at 8 a.m. Saturday at UTPB Park near East Loop 338 and Highway 191 with check-ins and registrations for the annual Bunny Hop 5K Run, which begins at 9 a.m.

“The 5K is just to get people out and active and enjoy the spring and the air,” Recreation and Special Events Coordinator Cori Branscrum said.

The 5K Run is called a fun run, meaning there’s no time or prize for finishing first. Everyone who finishes the run will receive a t-shirt and candy at the end. Peter Cottontail will also be running, or hopping, alongside the participants.

Registration for the event is $10 for anyone 16 or older and children 15 and under can register for free.

After the 5K Run, children will be able to participate in the city’s annual Easter egg hunt at 11 a.m. Saturday. There will be thousands of items to give away and a few prizes. Anyone who finds golden eggs in the soccer fields containing golden tickets, which can be exchanged for special goodie baskets.

The hunt is free, and there will also be a photo opportunity for anyone who wants to have their picture taken with Peter Cottontail.

Following the hunt, there will be face painting and food until the event ends at 12:30 p.m.

If You Go
  • What: Bunny Hop 5K Run.
  • When: Check-in/registration at 8 a.m. Saturday.
  • Where: UTPB Park, E. Loop 338 and Highway 191.
  • Cost: $10 16-up, children 15-under free.
  • More information: Register at tinyurl.com/ydcaoybg
If You Go
  • What: Community Easter Egg Hunt.
  • When: 11 a.m. Saturday.
  • Where: UTPB Park Soccer Fields, E. Loop 338 and Highway 191.
  • Cost: Free.