Easter Service at Easter Field

Maybe you have heard of Easter Field, but do you know the story of its name?  The wide open space known as Easter Field is just over the foot bridge that crosses a narrow vein of the LA River, adjacent to the LA Equestrian Center.

On any given day you might find riders moving through their paces, hand walking, or lunging their steeds at Easter Field. At other times, it might be chockablock with horse trailers used  to haul equine competitors to events held at the LA Equestrian Center.  It is a common use space known simply as Easter Field.

Corral 38, the Griffith Park chapter of Equestrian Trails, Inc., has been organizing and sponsoring an Easter service at Easter Field since 1988, but it was Carmen Dirigo of Corral 17 that founded the event back in the 1960s.  At that time, there was a traditional Easter sunrise service, a bonnet contest for the horses, and an Easter egg hunt for the children. And so, "Easter Field" was born.

Corral 38 is keeping the tradition alive by offering a non-denominational service at Easter Field this Sunday, April 4, 2010, at 9:00 a.m. There will be an Easter egg hunt for children under 12, and an Easter bonnet contest for the horses.  That's right - you can put a bonnet on your horse.  He will hate you for it, but hey, it's only one day a year - make him earn those carrots and apples!  

There will also be plenty of fun and games on horseback for all ages.  All riders, carriages and even those on foot are welcomed and encouraged to join in the fun.  This is not your average Easter celebration, so forget the Easter frock and wear something comfortable.  

The bonnet contest will include funniest bonnet, most original bonnet, prettiest bonnet, among other categories.  The horseback games will include favorites like egg and spoon, the ring toss, musical cones, water glass, and more.

Prizes will be awarded.  Coffee and doughnuts will be served.  Come join the fun!

By car, Easter Field is located at the end of Western Avenue, one block south of Riverside Drive.  Click here for a map.