Where’s Waldo? In Downtown Frederick, of course! Celebrating its twelfth anniversary in July 2024, Find Waldo Local has become a beloved summertime event in communities nationwide. This year, Candlewick Press and the American Booksellers Association are again teaming up with 310 independent bookstores nationwide, including local bookstore Curious Iguana, for some hide-and-seek fun designed to encourage residents to patronize their local businesses. There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts from July 1-27.

Families love joining the scavenger hunt to find the iconic children’s book character, with his red-and-white-striped shirt and black glasses, hidden in forty local businesses. Find Waldo Local is a wonderful way to support the Shop Local movement by increasing foot traffic to a variety of stores.

To join in the fun, people can simply pick up a Find Waldo passport at Curious Iguana, Dancing Bear Toys and Games, Frederick Visitor Center, or C. Burr Artz Library starting on July 1. With each miniature Waldo they spot, searchers get their card stamped or signed by the participating shops found on the passport. Eagle-eyed hunters can also look for Waldo’s special 2024 gold medal hidden in Curious Iguana! Collecting store stamps or signatures at twenty or more businesses will entitle diligent seekers entry into a grand-prize drawing for Waldo books and other prizes. All participants are welcome to attend the celebration party at C. Burr Artz Library on Sunday, July 28, at 2 pm. Prizes are reserved for children 12 and under.

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