LEXINGTON, Ky. — An Easter celebration was held at the Kentucky state capitol this weekend, where Kentucky families gathered to find eggs and celebrate the holiday. 

What You Need To Know

  • Families around the bluegrass gathered on the south lawn for this year’s egg-themed-fun

  • Hundreds of eggs were up for grabs

  • Several vendors offered local favorites

  • Governor Andy Beshear and family welcomed the crowd and pictures with the Easter bunny

The hunt was on at the Kentucky state capitol lawn. It’s a tradition to find as many colorful eggs as possible, and it’s what pulls families here for another year. 

But for 11-year-old Kylie Smallwood, it’s a bittersweet feeling. 

“It’s very odd. Because I’ve never been anywhere like for Easter since after my dad passed away, so yeah, it’s kind of different.” said Smallwood, who attended with her little brother and family members. 

Like many families and kids at the event, Smallwood said it’s all about quality time with the people you love.

Togetherness and hunting for eggs were just a few of the highlights of the capitol celebration. Families also had the chance to check out free food, music and long lines for face painting by artist Katie Schoenlaub. 

Schoenlaub says it was a wonderful day to really come out and enjoy a true spring occasion in Kentucky. It’s her first Easter event where she gets to take a different approach to the art she loves and for the kids.

“This is my first year, actually. I actually paint hyper real photos and portraits of people and animals so this is a nice little fun getaway to get away from my studio and to get out.” Schoenlaub said. “Just to be there for the kids. That’s what I’m really here for today.”

Lexington’s elder Mario Webb and the new covenant gospel choir serenaded the crowd while some lucky kids went home with a basket full of candy filled eggs.

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