Marshmallows falling from sky, what's this surreal tradition

It’s not every day that the skies open up and shower sweet, fluffy marshmallows onto a field of eager children. But in Metro Detroit, this surreal scene has become a much-loved Easter tradition , known as the Great Marshmallow Drop .
On Friday, the green lawns of Worden Park in Royal Oak came alive with excitement as a helicopter soared overhead, releasing thousands of marshmallows into the air. Children cheered, some donning bunny ears and gripping colourful baskets, as the sky turned into a soft cascade of sugary puffs. This long-standing Easter tradition transforms public spaces into magical drop zones, blending festive joy with community bonding. But what might look like a sugary free-for-all is a well-organised event rooted in fun, fairness, and family celebration.

What is Marshmallow-Dropping Easter tradition
The Great Marshmallow Drop is an annual event where marshmallows are dropped from a helicopter over a park, and children race to collect them, not to eat, but to exchange for prize bags. These prizes often include toys, kites, and passes to water parks. Organised by local parks and recreation departments, the event serves as a fun, family-friendly kickoff to the Easter season.

History of the Marshmallow Drop
The tradition began over 30 years ago in Royal Oak, Michigan, and has since become a much-loved community celebration. Hosted by Oakland County Parks, the event was designed to bring families outdoors, encourage social connection, and offer a playful twist to the Easter holiday.

How it works
A helicopter drops around 15,000 marshmallows in waves, covering a large grassy area. Children are grouped by age — under 4, 5 to 7, and 8 to 12 — and take turns gathering marshmallows. A special drop is also arranged for children with disabilities. Safety is a top priority, with volunteers ensuring kids wait until the drop is complete before rushing in.

Beyond Royal Oak: A Metro Detroit tradition
The marshmallow drop isn’t just a Royal Oak event. Nearby towns like Westland and parks such as Warden Park also host similar drops. These events are growing in popularity as they promote outdoor play, family bonding, and seasonal celebration across the Metro Detroit area.

Not for eating, but definitely for joy
Though the marshmallows aren't meant to be eaten, they hold value as a symbol of fun and community. Kids get to turn them in for prizes, making the experience more about the thrill of participation than the treat itself.

Easter traditions across the world
From the streets of Guatemala adorned with intricate, colourful carpets made of sawdust and flowers, to the Good Friday kite-flying festivals in Bermuda, every culture brings its flavour to this springtime festival. In France, the town of Bessières whips up a massive omelette using over 15,000 eggs, while in Sweden and Finland, children dress as Easter witches and go door to door offering drawings in exchange for sweets. This playful tradition blends folklore with modern fun.

In Norway, Easter takes a mysterious turn as people curl up with crime novels and watch detective shows, a tradition inspired by a 1920s book advertisement. In Australia, the Easter Bunny is replaced by the endangered Easter Bilby, which helps raise awareness for native wildlife. In the United States, the historic White House Easter Egg Roll continues to delight children with games and colourful eggs.



The Great Marshmallow Drop is a joyful tradition that brings families together each Easter. With kids laughing and marshmallows falling, it’s a sweet reminder of the fun in community celebrations .