The bunny is back.

Peter Cottontail is once again hopping his way to the city’s core following a year-long absence, as the Downtown Orillia Management Board announces the return of its annual Easter egg hunt.

“It is on,” said Lisa Thomson-Roop, a representative of the merchants’ organization.

Running from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., the March 22 event is open to children 12 and younger.

Participants are invited to scour the downtown for colourful plastic eggs, which can be redeemed for chocolate bunnies in front of the Orillia Opera House, courtesy of Apple Annie’s.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” added Thomson-Roop, a recent hire to the local organization.

The egg hunt was cancelled last year due to a lack of staff resources and time to coordinate the wildly popular event, which traditionally draws scores of youngsters to the downtown.

Should it rain, eggs will be redeemed in the lobby of the Downtown Heritage Building, located at 33 Misssisaga St. E.

In addition to an appearance by the Easter Bunny himself, participants will have an opportunity to
meet Miss Teen Georgian Bay.

Face painting is also planned, while some lucky egg hunters will find gift certificates from select merchants, organizers said.