Find Waldo Local 2025
This July, join Queen Takes Book for a city-wide scavenger hunt as we bring Find Waldo Local to Columbia!
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It’s a free, family-friendly adventure that turns shopping local into a game. Track down Waldo in participating small businesses, collect stamps in your passport, and celebrate your discoveries with fun prizes and a festive wrap-up party. Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong Columbian, it’s a joyful way to explore the community and support the shops that make our town special.​
How to Play - Starting July 1
The hunt runs from July 1 to July 31, 2025.
Start your journey at Queen Takes Book by picking up your official Waldo passport. From there, you’ll search for Waldo (plus a hidden magnifying glass) in businesses throughout downtown Columbia and nearby neighborhoods.
Participation is completely free, and everyone’s welcome to join the fun.
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Pick up your Find Waldo Local passport at Queen Takes Book
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Visit participating local shops and search for Waldo (and the special magnifying glass!).
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Collect a stamp or signature in your passport at each spot where you find him.
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Return to Queen Takes Book to redeem rewards and enter our grand prize drawing.
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Celebrate at our end-of-month party - a community event full of treats, prizes, and Waldo-themed fun!
Just for participating, you can earn stickers, coupons, and all participants that complete their passport are entered into our grand prize drawing!
Why It Matters
Find Waldo Local isn’t just about spotting stripes - it’s about celebrating everything that makes Columbia unique.
As you explore, you’ll stumble across hidden gems you might never have noticed before ... cozy cafés, creative boutiques, and friendly neighborhood shops that give our town its charm.
With every passport stamp, you’re not just getting closer to a prize, you’re supporting the small businesses that make Columbia feel like home.
Stay Tuned
We’ll be announcing this year’s participating businesses over the coming days and weeks—keep an eye out for your favorites and maybe even a few new places to love.
📱 Follow along on Instagram: instagram.com/QueenTakesBook
We’ll be sharing sneak peeks, clues, and behind-the-scenes moments all month long!
FAQ
Do I need to bring anything?
Just your passport and your curiosity!
Can adults participate?
Absolutely - kids, adults, families … everyone’s welcome.
Is it really free?
Yes! There’s no charge for passports, stamps, or prizes.
How do I win prizes?
Fill your passport by visiting as many participating shops as you can, and you’ll be entered in our prize drawings.