By Sarah Morgan
The Young Women’s League (YWL) of New Canaan will host its much anticipated annual Easter festivities, including the Easter Bonnet Contest and 50th Annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 23 from 9:00-11:00 AM in the Saxe Middle School Gymnasium.
The Young Women’s League (YWL) of New Canaan is a nonprofit organization that stands as a community service and philanthropy pillar in the town. With a board of dedicated members led by President Domenica Monaghan, the league supports local initiatives, fosters social connections, and empowers women of all ages.
This year holds special significance as the YWL marks the 50th anniversary of its Easter Egg Hunt. Generations of families have memories of this cherished event, and it has become a hallmark of springtime in New Canaan. YWL member Christina Saburro is the group’s photographer and has taken photos of families with the Easter Bunny for the past twelve years. She remarked, “It’s just the most fun time. These families come back year after year, and you get to see the kids grow and see that they find something to enjoy every year. It’s a great tradition!”
In addition to the Egg Hunt, the YWL’s event will feature a range of other exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. Attendees can expect fun-filled attractions like inflatable slides, an obstacle course, a DJ, face painting, and complimentary donuts and coffee courtesy of the New Canaan Dunkin’. Multiple versions of all activities will be available based on age and sensory comfortability. Younger children will be able to complete a separate egg hunt from older kids and will have access to a different slide and obstacle course to ensure safety and enjoyment for children of all ages.
Returning to this year’s festivities is the Easter Bonnet contest, which has blossomed throughout the past couple of years. Anyone is welcome to register for the competition and create a bonnet according to the requirements and instructions on the Young Women’s League website. The New Canaan Library will display the top three winning bonnets this year- allowing participants to see their art on exhibit in town. “The contest is another way to involve kids of all ages. There’s a lot of really creative kids in this town, and I think there’s a lot of potential for some great things to come out of this,” said Lauren Tarzia, YWL member and the chair of the Easter events.
YWL members like Lauren and Christina have worked tirelessly to ensure the event is meticulously planned and executed. On Wednesday night, YWL volunteers and volunteers from the Au’Pairs of America organization met to stuff over 8,000 Easter eggs in one night. Lauren reflected on the night’s energy and fellowship, “It was amazing how everyone just came together and hustled. It was really a team effort, and it was amazing to see all these women come together.”
The Easter Bonnet Contest and Easter Egg Hunt embody the camaraderie and joy that define the YWL and its commitment to serving the community. All proceeds from the event will support the league’s charitable initiatives, including scholarships for local students and contributions to community organizations.
The Young Women’s League encourages everyone to celebrate the Easter season and participate in the 50th annual Egg Hunt. For tickets, further information, and updates regarding the Egg Hunt and Bonnet Contest, individuals are encouraged to visit the YWL website at www.ywlnewcanan.org.
