April 8, 2008

Spring is in the air

Flocks attend downtown Bunnies and Bonnets Parade

A sunny California day welcomed the Bunnies and Bonnets Parade in downtown Campbell on March 22.

Country Women’s Club of Campbell members Ruthann Boesch and Lorraine Emery symbolize the Bunnies and Bonnets Parade.

The 11th annual event sponsored by the Downtown Campbell Business Association (DCBA) closes the historic district to make way for marching bands, baton and highland dancers, classic cars, city officials and lots more for a procession of good old fashioned fun.

“This is a great event,” said Campbell resident Patricia Appelquist. “Sally Howe of the DCBA has done a wonderful job on this year’s parade.”

Ruthann Boesch and Lorraine Emery, members of Campbell’s Country Women’s Club anticipate the event every year. The two women doll-up in spring outfits with ornate bonnets of bunnies and flowers as they pass out candy to children of all ages.

“This is such a nice event,” said Emery. “The kids can chalk draw on the street and have fun with their families.”

But it’s not just Campbell residents that enjoy taking photos of their kids with the Easter Bunny at the Courtyard Galleria and cheer the San Jose School of Highland Dancers or Westmont High School’s marching band. Four legged critters are welcome as well.

Below: Two Girl Scouts pass out goodies during the Bunnies and Bonnets Parade.

Recent Campbell transplants from the Midwest Jennifer Heigert and Christina Cuellar dressed their canines, Kiko and Sophie in Easter finery saying “we love the parade” and “this is so much fun.”

Out-of-towners Ray and Esther Singley were visiting their daughter who lives nearby and brought their Shiba Inu to the dog friendly event.

“We thought we’d come and enjoy the parade with a cup of coffee,” said the Singleys’ who live in Sacramento. “It’s a lot fun.”

But the fun didn’t end with the parade. Afterwards the Old Fashioned Kids Fair entertained all the children with free games and music. The Bunnies and Bonnets Parade: where families, whether two- or four-legged enjoy good old fashioned fun.

—Jeanne C. Carbone