Finding free family fun throughout Niwot this summer

Since Martin Handford's popular "Where's Waldo?" seek and find books came to bookshelves in the late 1980s, they have sold more than 80 million copies and been translated into more than 30 languages. The publishers have brought this iconic character to life by partnering with a few hundred independent bookstores nationwide.

This year, Niwot's own The Wandering Jellyfish Bookshop (TWJ) was selected to be one of those special bookstores, and the TWJ team recruited more than 15 other local businesses to participate in the scavenger hunt.

"It's a fantastic idea that the publisher came up with just for indie bookstores and they only select a certain number each year, so it's selective," explained TWJ manager Alison Cave.

The event runs throughout the month of July, with a party hosted by TWJ on Saturday, July 29, which will include a band from The Niwot Gig, a face painter, treats from Cimmini's and more.

Participants are invited to pick up a Waldo Passport at any participating business around town-if you successfully find Waldo at 10 businesses, you are eligible for a coupon and sticker, while supplies last. Those who find him at every location around town, including his glasses, which are hidden at TWJ, will be entered to win a grand prize, including Waldo Books.

"It's been so successful and fun to see how many kids are out and about with their entire families," Cave said. "A lot of the families seem to spend all day in town getting it done and going to every single store that's open."

So far, three lucky Waldo-hunters have completed their passports, and it seems that local businesses are getting in on the fun too.

"It just seems like a fun, free thing for families to do around town and get to know Niwot a little better," Cave said. "This helps people see and visit every store and know what they have access to."