Where’s Waldo, the fellow in the striped shirt and black-rimmed specs, will return to Farmington for the month of July for the fifth year in a row. He’ll visit 22 different local businesses, according to a news release from Devaney Doak and Garrett Booksellers.

Those who spot him can win prizes, including buttons, books and more. From Mainestone Jewelers on Broadway to newly moved to Mixed-Up, the cooking supply recently re-located to downtown, from Divine Inspirations to The Calico Patch, Waldo figures will be showing up in public areas of local establishments.

Waldo is not the only one missing, Waldo’s dog Woof has gotten loose and is hiding in DDG Booksellers.

Those who wish to participate can pick up a “Find Waldo in Farmington!” search list and passport with the names of all the businesses. Spotting Waldos (and one Woof) in 19 or more businesses and turning them in at Devaney Doak and Garrett Booksellers will win a Waldo button and an entry for other, larger prizes to be drawn at a Waldo party on Sunday, July 31. The grand prize will be a complete six-volume set of Waldo books. People who prefer a shorter version of the hunt can collect the cards from 10 businesses and pick up a Waldo button at Devaney Doak and Garrett Booksellers.

According to the release, Waldo is the creation of Martin Handford, whose drawings of crowd scenes swept the world in 1987. Since then, the “Where’s Waldo” books have held a cherished spot on bookstore shelves the world over. There are now more than 55 million Waldo books in print worldwide and they’ve been translated into 18 languages. An entire generation has grown up searching for Waldo and his cast of wandering companions.

In celebration of Waldo’s longevity and popularity, his American publisher, Candlewick Press, is teaming up with the American Booksellers Association and more than 250 independent bookstores all across the country to have fun and encourage people to visit local businesses. There is no charge to participate, and the game lasts for the entire month of July.

For more information, call Devaney Doak and Garrett Booksellers at 778-3454.