Where's Waldo? In New Westminster, of Course!
NEW WESTMINSTER, BC — July 1, 2026 — The iconic children's book character Waldo is returning to New Westminster this July for a month-long community scavenger hunt designed to celebrate and support local businesses.
Kinder Books, located in River Market, is thrilled to host the 2026 Find Waldo Local event in partnership with Candlewick Press. Throughout July, families and visitors are invited to search for Waldo hidden inside 11 participating businesses within River Market.
The free event encourages residents to explore local shops, discover new businesses, and support independent retailers while enjoying a fun family activity.
"Find Waldo Local is one of our favourite community events of the year," says Anne Uebbing, owner of Kinder Books. "It brings families together, introduces visitors to the wonderful businesses that make River Market unique, and reminds us how important it is to support local. Every stamp collected is a small way of investing in our community."
Participants can pick up a Find Waldo Local in New Westminster! stamp card at Kinder Books. Each time Waldo is found, participants receive a stamp or signature on their card. Sharp-eyed searchers can also look for Wizard Whitebeard, hidden exclusively at Kinder Books.
Those who collect stamps from 11 participating businesses, and find Wizard Whitebeard, will be entered into a grand prize draw featuring Waldo books, River Market gift certificates, and prizes donated by participating merchants.
Participating Businesses:
- Kinder Books
- Raincity Games
- Cosy Yarns
- Vancouver Circus School
- Great Wall Tea
- Tre Galli Gelato
- Pottery Works
- Pamola Bakery
- Churi
- Babynook
- Bubble Tea
How it works:
- Starting July1st, pick up your passport at Kinder Books
- Search and find Waldo at the participating 11 River Market businesses and get them signed or stamped.
- Search and find Wizard Whitebeard, exclusively at Kinder Books.
- Return your complete passport to Kinder Books to be entered into weekly prize draws
The hunt concludes with a celebration party at Kinder Books on August 1, where prize winners will be announced and participants can gather to celebrate a successful search. Details of the party will be shared during the event.
Created by British illustrator Martin Handford, the beloved Waldo books have entertained readers around the world for decades. More than 80 million copies have been sold worldwide and translated into over 30 languages.
For more information about Find Waldo Local in New Westminster, visit Kinder Books, call Kinder Books at 604-553-3666, or stop by the store at River Market.
Media Contact
Anne Uebbing
Owner, Kinder Books
604-553-3666
info@kinderbooks.ca
Kinder Books
