For almost 15 years, the Bunny Hop in downtown Carlisle has been more than just a festive afternoon of candy-fueled chaos and adorable photo ops—it’s been a family tradition, in every sense of the word.
Now, as the pastel baton is passed to new hands, we’re taking a moment to say thank you to the local legends who made it all hop.
🍭 It All Started with Candy and a Dream
Back in 2010, Georgie Lou’s Retro Candy opened its doors to downtown Carlisle... and barely anyone noticed.
That first year, owner Stephanie and her family launched Spooky Saturday—a daylight trick-or-treating event for families—because honestly, what better way to lure in the public than with sugar?
By 2013, they added a spring version called The Bunny Hop to the mix. What started as a small, sweet attempt to get noticed (with just 15 businesses and around 60 kids) blossomed into a beloved community tradition. At its peak, the Bunny Hop drew nearly 1,000 kids and 70+ local businesses into the fun.
Georgie Lou’s wasn’t just passing out candy—they were creating moments. Little feet in bunny ears skipping down High Street. Map-wielding parents herding sugar-hyped toddlers. Siblings arguing over who got the better sticker. Magic.
👣 From Family Business to Full-Blown Community Event
It’s been a family affair from the very beginning. Stephanie’s sons were all enlisted over the years: Tommy at the door, Georgie at the register, Stephanie juggling maps, candy, and chaos. Little Jack made guest appearances. It was a small crew with big hearts, and they made Carlisle sparkle.
But over time, as all parents know, life changes. The kids grew up (and got married!), the pandemic restructured everything, and Georgie Lou’s had to hustle to grow their online business just to keep the doors open.
And with a heavy—but hopeful—heart, the family made the call: it’s time to pass the Bunny Hop torch.
🏁 Enter: Love Carlisle, Hopping In With Heart
This year, Love Carlisle will take the reins and host the Bunny Hop on Saturday, April 12th from 12–3 PM. Participating downtown businesses will offer treats, crafts, and games for kids 12 and under. The Easter Bunny will be holding court in the Town Square, and maps will be available online and on social media the day before the event.
As for Georgie Lou’s? They’ll still be there—this time, as a stop on the map. Still handing out candy. Still cheering from the sidelines. Still part of what makes Carlisle, well, Carlisle.
“We want our events that have become downtown Carlisle traditions to carry on,” said Stephanie. “Thank you to every family, business, and press friend who has supported us all these years. Good luck to Phil and Stacey at Love Carlisle—we know you’ll do great.”
💖 Why This Matters
Sure, it’s just candy and crafts. But it’s also community, built one jelly bean at a time. It’s the reason we have kids who remember which store gave out full-sized treats, and parents who cherish the memories of “just one more picture with the Bunny.”
It’s about passing something down—not just maps and signs, but connection.
And this year, as you walk the Bunny Hop trail, remember: you’re stepping into something special. A tradition built by a local family who loved their town, and loved its families enough to make something magical—year after year after year.
🌸 A New Season for Carlisle’s Families
Just like Georgie Lou’s has passed the Bunny Hop torch to Love Carlisle, there’s been another recent passing of the baton in town. I’m thrilled to share that I’ve recently taken over Macaroni KID Carlisle–Boiling Springs–Shippensburg, and I couldn’t be more excited to partner with incredible community builders like Love Carlisle to continue celebrating everything family-friendly in our area.
Together, these two recent shifts mark the next chapter in small-town magic—a new generation of family businesses, community leaders, and joyful chaos in the form of sidewalk chalk, Easter eggs, and local love.
We may be turning the page—but the story of Carlisle’s family fun scene is far from over.
🐰 Bunny Hop 2025 Info
🗓 Saturday, April 12 | 12 PM–3 PM
📍 Downtown Carlisle (Town Square + participating merchants)
📰 lovecarlisle.com
📍 RSVP to the Facebook Event Page
🚶️ Bring donations for Safe Harbour to the Love Carlisle tent!
When visiting events and local businesses, be sure to tell them Macaroni KID sent you... and don't forget to tell all your friends!
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