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Bonnets, Bunnies And Babies Galore At One Of Philly's Oldest Easter Traditions

By Kristen Johanson

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Easter traditions usually include church and brunch, but in South Philadelphia, there is another that has been around for 84 years - the Easter Promenade at Headhouse Square.

For kids, the goodie basket is the most important part of Easter:

"I got a big stuffy to cuddle with, and I got candy," this child tells KYW Newsradio.

Eight-year-old Tirana's favorite part...

"I like the dresses part."

On a sunny spring day, the Easter Promenade was something some families just couldn't pass up. It's been a part of the Winklers tradition for five years, and they hopped right in the fun.

"We walked in front of the bunnies and behind the band, so we were part of the parade and we had a really good time."

The festivities included a bunny parade, music by the Philadelphia Freedom Band, as well as a costume and hat contest.

easter promenade 2015 2
(Credit: Kristen Johanson)

Gretchen and her family came from East Falls to find eggs, but found more along the way:

"We were in a neighborhood part close to here for an Easter Egg Hunt, and came down here to have some lunch. But my son heard the band, and said he definitely wanted to come over and hear the band. So that's what brought us over here -- its a beautiful day today.

Dressed in their Easter best, Adia and Naomi came out for two reasons:

"So I can watch the parade, I got a lot of candy... and we got candy to eat!"

The tradition dates back to 1931.

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