By Southend BID manager Alison Dewey

THE Easter holidays are looming and the good news for those of you not jetting off abroad, is that there’s a whole host of things going on right here at home.

Prepare to set phasers to fun at Adventure Island with a fabulous sci-fi weekend on April 6 and 7 including a best dressed competition, themed party time, a magical treasure hunt and face painting.

Southend Pier is holding its annual Great Pier Easter Egg Hunt.

Throughout the entire Easter weekend your little chickens can venture down the world-famous pier to see if they can find ten, themed posters that the Easter Bunny has hidden.

There’s a delicious chocolate egg and certificate for every child who completes the challenge.

The Victoria Shopping Centre will create an Easter Wonderland on April 13 from 11am to 4pm.

Meet your favourite Alice in Wonderland characters and dare you take on the Queen of Hearts at a game of croquet. This free event includes printed photos, balloon modelling, face painting and more.

The Royals Shopping Centre and its resident Little Royalty team invite you and the family to attend its free Easter Eggstravaganza on Wednesday April 17.

Between 11am and 3pm, the kids can take part in an eggciting Easter Bonnet Parade and craft sessions.