Over 350 people attended McCrory Gardens’ Eggstravaganza on April 14. The event was in partnership with the Ag Heritage Museum and the South Dakota Art Museum.

Kids and their families had the opportunity to participate in bingo, face painting, crafts, bunny sack races and an egg hunt. Golden tickets were placed in three eggs, which could be exchanged for a prize.

Five-year-old Oscar Harty, a resident of Brookings, was one of the lucky winners. According to Harty, getting the golden ticket was his favorite part of the event.

Participants got pictures with Jack the Jackrabbit, as he roamed around the event playing bingo and entertaining the kids.

Rylin Yerdon, Miss McCrory Gardens, and senior advertising student ran the bingo game with the help of Evian Johnson, Miss Hot Springs Teen, a senior at Brookings High School.

Other student volunteers included President of Interfraternity Council and member of Pi Kappa Alpha, Peyton Plagman. As well as Panhellenic President and member of Chi Omega, Kayla Capozzi.

Sydney Trio, an Education Coordinator and Extension Horticulture Assistant, created the event along with two other education coordinators from the SD Art Museum and the Ag Heritage Museum in 2023. This is the second year the event was held, with roughly 250 people attending in 2023.

McCrory Gardens is a university operated botanical garden that serves as a research center and community recreation area.

“It provides a safe place for kids to come and have fun,” Trio said.

Events are held year-round. One event, “Garden Glow,” is where the garden is decorated with seasonal lights in December and January. The plants are specifically selected to withstand harsh winter conditions so guests can enjoy them all year.

While many events charge an admission fee, organizers strive to provide free entry to as many community events as possible.

“We offer something almost every month where it’s a free opportunity for kids, families [and] everyone to come to the gardens at no cost,” said Lisa Marotz, McCrory Gardens director of operations.

McCrory Gardens is celebrating their 60th anniversary this year. Their annual garden party is scheduled for August 1. To celebrate their diamond anniversary, the display will feature plants with names that include “diamond” or “sparkle,” along with varieties known for their shimmering appearance.