ARLINGTON – Parents set their basket-toting kids scrambling in a field of thousands of eggs during Saturday’s annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Arlington Airport Field.

“This was our first time” at the egg hunt, and they had a blast, said Nicole Davis of Arlington who brought her 4-year-old son, Jaxon. He was shy and low-key before the rush started, but he quickly staked out a nearby batch of eggs all his own, filled his basket within two minutes, then took off running for more.

With support from new sponsor, the Cascade Valley Hospital Foundation, 10,000 plastic eggs filled with treats were scattered throughout three search areas divided by age groups, with prize-redeemable gold coins and winner notifications granted to a few lucky egg hunters.

Prizes included $20 Wal-mart gift cards, art supplies courtesy of the Arlington Arts Council, and 200 Boston Pizza coupons for free kids meals.

Participants who arrived early to the egg hunt were treated to a visit and photos with the Easter Bunny, poke their head through Easter-themed photo displays, and meet Arlington firefighters and police officers up close.

This was the Cascade foundation’s first time hosting the egg hunt, board member Jennifer Egger said. She has coordinated community relations for the hospital.

“This is such a fun event,” said Egger, enjoying her tenth year volunteering, joined by her daughter and fellow board members who helped out.

“We plan to get out in the community a lot more,” Egger said. “You’ll see more of the foundation involved in community events, and health outreach.”

Members with Arlington United Church and Youth Dynamics provided refreshments at the event.