Helicopters, Candy, and Marshmallows: The Easter Weekend Events Across the Country That Drop the Fun

This Easter weekend, across the United States, families are gathering to witness one of the most exciting and fun-filled spectacles of the season—helicopters dropping everything from marshmallows to candy and even money from the sky. Whether it was the familiar Great Marshmallow Drop in Royal Oak, Michigan, or one of the many similar events taking place around the country, there is no shortage of fun, sugar, and airborne surprises.

In Oakland County, Michigan, the Great Marshmallow Drop at Worden Park is a beloved tradition, drawing families for a spectacle that’s equal parts heartwarming and hilarious. Thanks to a helicopter, over 15,000 marshmallows rained down on eager children yesterday as they scrambled to collect them for a prize. There was no competition—just good old-fashioned fun, with participants under 12 years old and individuals with disabilities all receiving prizes. And just like last year, there was a Quiet Zone tent to make sure everyone could enjoy the event, regardless of sensory needs. Talk about making a sweet memory!

While Michigan’s marshmallow drop was a hit, it’s just one of many similar events happening across the country. For example, in California, towns like Santa Barbara and Riverside host helicopter Easter egg drops where thousands of brightly colored eggs filled with candy or small prizes fall from the sky, creating a scramble for the best loot. The kids—clad in their Easter best—rush to collect the plastic eggs as they fall, and often there’s a golden egg that offers a special prize. These events have become a classic Easter weekend tradition, creating lasting memories for families of all ages.

In the South, helicopter candy drops have become a staple for Easter festivities. Cities in Texas and Georgia regularly host these events, where a helicopter drops thousands of pieces of candy onto fields full of excited kids. The sound of the helicopter whirling overhead signals the start of the hunt, and kids race around the drop zones to collect as many candies as they can. These events are not just about the candy—they bring communities together, offering a fun way for families to enjoy the Easter weekend outdoors.

Although pumpkin drops aren’t limited to Easter, many events occur around fall harvest time, including those in Ohio and Georgia. Helicopters drop pumpkins onto open fields, and participants rush to catch them or grab tokens hidden inside. It’s a playful and unique twist on the idea of dropping things from the sky—perfect for those who want a little harvest fun outside the Easter season.

For something a little more unusual, Florida is home to some of the most interesting helicopter drops, including the rare money drop events. These charity-driven affairs see helicopters drop bills or tokens from the sky for participants to grab, adding a bit of competition and excitement for those scrambling to catch the floating cash. While not specifically tied to Easter, these events still bring the thrill of the helicopter drop and the joy of free prizes.

In addition to the flying loot, communities like Oakland County, MI, have more enchanting events like Whimsical Woodlands, which takes place later this month at the Johnson Nature Center in Bloomfield Hills. This family-friendly festival features everything from fairy houses and gnome homes to crafts, animals, and face painting. It’s a perfect counterbalance to the candy drops, offering a quieter, magical experience for families to explore. Plus, the success of all these events relies heavily on volunteers who help bring the fun to life—whether assisting with activities, providing safety, or guiding families through the festivities.

No matter where you are this Easter weekend, from Michigan to Texas, these helicopter drop events have become a staple of family fun across the nation. Whether you’re catching candy in California, hunting for eggs in Texas, or making memories with marshmallows in Michigan, these sky-high surprises have something for everyone.

So, if you missed out on the helicopter fun this year, be sure to keep an eye on your local event calendar next spring. Who knows? You might just find your own marshmallow or candy rain waiting for you.