The Easter Bunny made its way to town a little early this year to make an appearance at an inclusive egg hunt event hosted by the Swampscott Recreation Department and the Swampscott Commission on Disability.

Dozens of children scurried around the gymnasium, picking up colorful eggs and placing them in their respective baskets and bags.

Children just barely old enough to walk and children with disabilities participated in the hunt, which was designed to ensure that all children could participate comfortably.

As eggs were hidden, arts and crafts took the center of attention. After the hunt, families took turns meeting and taking pictures with the Easter Bunny as children opened up their eggs to see what they collected.

Commission on Disability Chair Lauren Shrestha said it felt good to offer the chance for any and all children to participate because in a lot of Massachusetts towns, the opportunities are not there.

“It gives options for kids of all severity levels to participate,” said Shrestha. “That is why we’re doing it. If you want something, you have to create it yourself.”

For some children in attendance, it was the first time they were ever able to participate in an Easter egg hunt, Shrestha said.

Student volunteers from Swampscott Middle School and Swampscott High School helped with the event. Teacher Matt Moran said it’s a special feeling to give back by helping children in the community, and the students take pride in doing so.

“We assembled and spread around the eggs, helped the kids and did arts and crafts with them, said Moran. “We’re super lucky for [Swampscott Recreation Director Charlotte Daher de Garcia] to include us in opportunities.”