Find Waldo Local 2026

Where’s Waldo? In Downtown Frederick, of course! Celebrating its 14th year in July 2026, 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 over 300 independent bookstores nationwide, including us, 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 begins July 1-31.
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 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 Wednesday, July 1. With each miniature Waldo they spot, searchers get their card stamped or signed by the participating shops found on the passport. Dress up as Waldo for Super Waldo Saturday on July 25 and get special discounts and promos at a select list of participating businesses when you show you passport at checkout. Stay tuned for more details.
Collecting store stamps or signatures at thirty 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, August 2, from 2 pm-3 pm. Prizes are reserved for children 12 and under. To be eligible to win prizes at the celebration, passports must be turned in to Curious Iguana by Saturday, August 1, before closing and participants must be present at the celebration on Sunday, August 2 to win prizes.