Carlton Inc.’s Easter Egg Hunt returns to Lygon St

Carlton Inc. is bringing back its popular Easter Egg Hunt to Lygon Ston Thursday, April 2, following last year’s major success which drew strong participation from local families.

The free community event will run from 3pm to 6pm, giving children the chance to explore the precinct and collect Easter treats from participating traders in the lead-up to the long weekend.

Last year’s inaugural hunt proved a hit, with hundreds of families turning out to take part. The event not only delivered a festive afternoon for children but also provided a welcome boost for local businesses, many of whom reported increased foot traffic and new customers discovering their stores.

The format will remain largely the same as 2025. Families will begin at a designated starting point on Lygon St before following a map to participating retailers, where children can collect Easter eggs and stamps along the way. Participating businesses will once again display event signage so visitors can easily identify stops on the trail.

In addition to the hunt itself, organisers are planning a lively atmosphere throughout the precinct, with the possibility of special guest appearances and family-friendly activities designed to create a welcoming, community feel.

Carlton Inc. says the event is part of its broader strategy to activate the Lygon St precinct and strengthen connections between traders and the local community. The association has increasingly focused on seasonal activations, building on the success of its Christmas initiatives and other community-focused events.

For traders, the Easter Egg Hunt offers an opportunity to showcase their businesses to local families and visitors who may not otherwise frequent the strip. Participating retailers will be provided with Easter eggs and promotional materials to ensure a coordinated presentation across the precinct.

With Lygon Street continuing to navigate the challenges facing retail and hospitality, events like the Easter Egg Hunt are seen as an important way to maintain momentum and encourage people to shop and dine locally.

Families are encouraged to arrive early to ensure they have enough time to complete the trail. Carlton Inc. will release further details closer to the date, including the official starting location and a list of participating businesses.

Businesses interested in being part of the Easter Egg Hunt can contact Carlton Inc. directly via [email protected] for more information.

After a strong debut last year, organisers are hopeful the 2026 event will be even bigger, cementing the Easter Egg Hunt as a regular fixture on Carlton’s community calendar. •