Broadcasting from the Dixon Petunia Festival Sweetland Studios, the conversation highlighted the annual summer event that places miniature versions of the familiar striped character inside participating small businesses throughout the community.
Books on First is once again partnering with Candlewick Press and the American Booksellers Association to bring Find Waldo Local to Dixon. The program, which has been held nationally since 2012, includes more than 300 independent bookstores across the country.
This year, 25 locally owned businesses throughout Dixon are participating in the event. Participants can pick up a stamp card at Books on First or at any participating business and begin searching for Waldo beginning July 1. A printable version of the card is also available through Books on First.
In addition to Waldo, Books on First will feature another hidden character, Wizard Whitebeard, giving participants an extra opportunity to earn a stamp and complete their cards.
The scavenger hunt runs throughout the entire month of July, ending on July 31. Participants can search at their own pace and visit businesses during their regular operating hours.
The event concludes with a celebration at Books on First on Aug. 1 at 1 p.m. The party will include games, snacks, refreshments, and multiple prize drawings.
Participants who locate Waldo at 10 businesses qualify for the standard prize drawing, while those who find Waldo at 20 locations become eligible for a deluxe drawing. Those who locate Waldo at all participating businesses, along with Wizard Whitebeard, are entered into the grand prize drawing. An additional drawing will be held for attendees who participate in the celebration event.
Organizers emphasized that participants do not need to find every Waldo location to attend the party or be eligible for prizes. Finding Waldo at 10 businesses is enough to enter the first drawing, while anyone can attend the celebration regardless of how many locations they visit.
Although the program is designed with families in mind, organizers encourage participation from all ages. The event welcomes both children and adults, offering a free summer activity that combines exploration, shopping, and community engagement.
The primary goal of Find Waldo Local is to increase visibility and foot traffic for small businesses. By encouraging residents to visit stores they may not typically enter, the event helps showcase the variety of locally owned businesses throughout downtown Dixon.
The scavenger hunt also provides families with a low-cost summer activity while school is out, allowing participants to spend time together, explore downtown and discover new businesses.
Looking ahead, Books on First plans to remain open throughout the Dixon Petunia Festival and welcomes visitors looking for books, coffee or a place to relax during festival activities.
The 2026 Dixon Petunia Festival takes place July 2 through July 5 and includes live entertainment, food, fireworks, a parade, carnival rides and numerous family activities throughout downtown Dixon.
For more information about Find Waldo Local, participating businesses, and upcoming events, residents can visit Books on First or stop by one of the participating locations beginning July 1.
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