Viral Bunny Brings Joy and Foot Traffic to Willowbrook Mall This Easter
Written by wmscweb on April 26, 2025
By Ben Capp | WMSC News
WAYNE, N.J. — What started as a fun idea has now turned into a full-blown viral sensation at the Willowbrook Mall. This Easter season, shoppers aren’t just lining up for traditional bunny photos—they’re visiting one of TikTok’s most beloved mascots: the Willowbrook Bunny.
Behind the floppy ears and signature dance moves is Daisy Xoletl, the manager of the Willowbrook Mall Easter Bunny set with the Cherry Hills Program. With four years of experience managing seasonal characters, Xoletl had no idea that a few lighthearted dance videos would gain such widespread popularity.
“Honestly, not really,” she said when asked if she expected the Bunny to go viral. “We just made it for fun. I just wanted to make some cute and funny ideas for the Bunny, and it just skyrocketed from there.”
And skyrocket it did—one of their TikTok videos has surpassed 2 million views, drawing attention from thousands of excited children and families, as well as fellow TikTok star and Montclair State University alumnus Jersey Joe, who stopped by for a collaboration.
The Bunny, known for his high-energy dance moves and playful antics, now greets fans young and old with cheers echoing throughout the mall.
“There was a whole group of kids that came running saying, ‘I saw your TikToks! I love you, Bunny!’” Xoletl recalled. “It was like a fan group. The Bunny was even in shock.”
The viral fame has also had a positive impact on the mall. Xoletl said foot traffic noticeably increased, with parents reporting that their kids begged to come see the Bunny in person after watching the videos online.
“Even kids from the second floor shout, ‘I see you on TikTok!’” she said. “Random kids come up asking for selfies. It helped bring in much more customers.”
The daily routine starts early, with the Bunny arriving before the mall opens. “The Bunny usually comes in at 10:30 to get ready, have some carrots, water, and Easter eggs ready. And then we’re up and ready to go,” said Xoletl.
What’s next for the viral Bunny team? More TikToks, of course—and possibly a return appearance in the winter. “We are keeping the page open for the company. The next season would be for Santa,” she teased. “Who knows, maybe Santa does some viral TikToks as well.”
For businesses looking to follow in her footsteps, Xoletl offers one simple piece of advice: “Just have fun with it. Don’t think about it too much. We were just having fun… and it just went viral.”
To see what all the hype is about, visit @willowbrook.bunny on TikTok.