Easter Sunday at Hill Crest Alpacas in North Dartmouth saw two different kinds of fluffy animals make an appearance: Along with the farm’s usual alpacas, the Easter Bunny came out as well.

Although coronavirus concerns cancelled Hill Crest Alpacas’ planned Easter Egg Hunt — the second annual Easter event at the farm — the owners still found a socially distant way to keep the holiday spirit alive. 

Instead, the farm hosted what it called an Easter “Roll By”, where families could drive past the farm to honk, wave and take photos of the Easter Bunny, and see the alpacas.

Dave Michalski, son-in-law to farm owners Shirley and Roger Lanouette, dressed up in a full bunny costume for the occasion. He stood at the farm’s entrance with Buck and Tio, two of the best-looking alpacas at Hill Crest, waving to families in passing cars.

Many cars drove by in the two hours Michalski spent standing in the sunshine at the side of Old Fall River Road. Most would honk as they passed, with children in the back shouting “Look, it’s the Easter bunny!” 

Other motorists did a double-take, slowing down and even turning their cars around to get another glimpse before traveling back to their intended destination.

“I’ve had a smile on my face since 10 o’clock this morning,” Michalski said, noting that the family felt they had to do something to celebrate. “It’s all about the joy on the kids’ faces.”

Along with colorful signs wishing passers-by a Happy Easter, there was a table filled with alpaca-related items for sale, including bags of alpaca poop for use as fertilizer. One person even bought a bag from Michalski in full Easter Bunny costume.

Michalski’s wife Kelly said that the farm plans to hold an egg hunt at a later date.

“When they say it’s safe, we'll do something,” she said. “Everybody looks forward to the Easter Egg Hunt.”