
In 1987, a successful media franchise was created by British illustrator, Martin Hanford. That year, readers were introduced to Waldo. His height was described as “tallish” and his weight as “lightish.” With a happy-go-lucky attitude, a smile on his face, and dressed in red-and-white stripes, Waldo set off on a worldwide trek that led to worldwide recognition. And to this day, everyone is, to their delight, still asking “Where’s Waldo?”
Every summer for twelve years, Bethel’s Byrd’s Books has invited the community to continue the hunt for Waldo. This year, he’ll be hiding in 25 businesses throughout Bethel for young and old to find him — though he’s notorious for getting lost in the crowd! The hunt will begin on Saturday, July 1st and close with an outdoor party on Saturday, July 29th, at 4:00pm, when prizes will be awarded to the most diligent sleuths playing in this annual town wide fun fest.
To become a Waldo Hunter, pick up a passport at Byrd’s Book’s or at any of the participating businesses (see list below). You can also print out a passport by going to ByrdsBooks.com Then, find Waldo in each business and get your passport stamped. When you collect 10 stamps, you’ll receive a sticker from Byrd’s Books and a coupon for $1.00 off any “Where’s Waldo?” book. But don’t stop there: Get 20 out of 25 stamps on your passport and you’ll receive a ticket to enter a Grand Prize Drawing at the July 29th party. There will be three Grand Prizes contributed by participating businesses, and the first 50 Waldo Hunters who attend the party will receive goodie bags with surprises also donated by Waldo’s sponsors.
Participating merchants:
Beyond Cabinets and Marble
Insight Rehab (formerly Carlson Procare)
Get your Passport HERE.
For more fun, you can post pictures from your hunt, holding your passport, on Byrd’s Books’ “Where’s Waldo?” Facebook page; you might even post pictures of your friends or family with passports in hand and big Waldo grins (red-and-white striped beanies are optional!). Happy hunting!
B