The University of the Virgin Islands golf course was filled with laughter, excitement, and bright Easter spirit on Saturday as Impacting Your World Christian Ministries (IYWCM) hosted its sixth annual Easter helicopter egg drop hunt, drawing over 1,000 participants, including 850 registered attendees.
At the heart of the event was a thrilling helicopter egg drop, during which 10,000 colorful eggs rained down onto the field from above. Once the helicopter departed, children aged 0 to 12 joyfully dashed across the grass to collect eggs, each filled with candy and Bible verses meant to uplift and inspire.
Families enjoyed a variety of community-friendly activities, including face painting, hula hoops, tug-of-war, bubbles, music, food, and a visit from the V.I. Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Adding an educational element, the Department of Education handed out more than 500 books to children in attendance.
Family and friends gather for a photo at the UVI golf course during the sixth annual Easter helicopter egg drop hosted by IYWCM. (Credit: IYWCM)
Rev. Dr. Gerald McDonald, Senior Pastor of IYWCM, described the event’s return as especially meaningful. “This year’s event was especially significant, as we had over 850 registered attendees, and the turnout exceeded 1,000 people,” he said. “The energy of the children was contagious, and parents radiated joy, laughter, and gratitude. It was a blessing to finally bring this event back to our community.”
Event coordinator Christopher McDonald expressed gratitude to all who helped make the day a success. He gave thanks for the clear skies and joyful atmosphere, noting the smiles on children’s faces and their opportunity to receive the word of God. He shared his hope that the Easter event would remain a lasting tradition in the years ahead.
Pastor Sharon McDonald emphasized how the wide range of activities helped unite the community. She described the event as a joyful gathering filled with face painting, music, games, and a grand finale featuring 10,000 eggs dropped from a helicopter. She said it was heartwarming to see the happiness on every child’s face and called it a day filled with harmony and joy for all who attended.
Pawan Dodlani, who attended the event, shared his appreciation for the day’s activities and community spirit. “As Superintendent of Schools, I am extremely pleased to have been invited to partner with Impacting Your World Christian Ministries for the return of the highly anticipated and well-attended Helicopter Easter Egg Drop & Hunt, under the leadership of Pastor McDonald, his family, and church family,” he said.
He described watching families visit activity stations for games, tug-of-war, fire truck tours, book selections, face painting, and treats before children dashed onto the field to collect colorful eggs. “It was just a wholesome activity for families,” he added. Dodlani praised the strong presence of engaged fathers and commended organizers for creating a child-centered, joyful space. “On behalf of the VIDE, especially the St. Thomas/St. John District, we extend kudos to the organizers… Thanks again, and we look forward to participating next year.”
Dr. Stefan Jürgen, Superintendent of the St. Thomas-St. John Department of Education, also expressed his support and involvement. “It was a joy to support this year’s Easter Egg Hunt by donating the use of the helicopter for the egg drop,” he said. “Seeing over 10,000 eggs rain down from the sky and witnessing the excitement and smiles from the children and families was truly heartwarming. We’re honored to have played a small part in such a meaningful and fun community event.”
Nicolas of Caribbean Buzz, which provided the helicopter for the egg drop, expressed appreciation to the many partners and sponsors who supported the event, including UVI, IYWCM, local government agencies, community businesses, and fellow contributors.
Pastor McDonald spoke about the spiritual message behind the event, explaining that the act of breaking an egg represents new life and rebirth, mirroring the meaning of Easter. He noted that many attendees responded by raising their hands to accept Christ as their Savior.
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