The Rules
1) Have fun, but be safe and act responsibly.
2) Participation is limited to teams of 2-6 people. Teams must stay together at all times during the Puzzle Hunt and will be checked at various times throughout the day. Puzzle Hunt teams that separate during the day will be disqualified. Teams must complete and sign a registration form prior to participating. The form is available at www.santarosapuzzlehunt.com. Forms will be available the morning of the event, but we strongly encourage advance registration.
3) Prizes are as follows:
- 1st Prize - $300
- 2nd Prize - $200
- 3rd Prize - $100
- Best Costume
- Best Team Name
- Worst Score
4) The Downtown Santa Rosa Puzzle Hunt consists of approximately 15-20 questions or puzzles plus a metapuzzle which draws on clues provided by the correct answers to several of the initial questions. The winner will be the first team to return to the finish booth at Courthouse Square with all questions completed correctly. Should no team complete all questions correctly within the time limit, First Prize will go to the team with the most points, followed by Second Prize and Third Prize. Points will be given on the following scale: 5 points for each correct initial question, 20 points will be given for a correct answer to the metapuzzle. In the event of a tie, the winner will be determined by a race to solve a small jigsaw puzzle.
5) Creative naming of teams is encouraged. Creative team attire is encouraged. An award will be given for best team attire and best team name. Please note that this is a family-friendly event.
6) In order to answer initial questions, participants will need to explore Downtown Santa Rosa (see attached map) and search for clues. Clues may require noting a visual answer (such as wording on a sign) or they may involve word play or retrieval of items. Many clues are on public property, some are located in businesses but will be accessible during regular business hours.
If any clues have time restrictions they will be noted on the clue sheet.
7) Teams will start from Depot Park at Railroad Square at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 5. Answers must be turned in by 4:30 p.m., April 5, at Courthouse Square. Late submissions will lose 2 point for every minute after 4:30. All participants and friends are invited to join us for an awards ceremony at 5:00 p.m. at The Cantina restaurant on Fourth St. next to Courthouse Square.
8) Event materials and advertising may include references to specific businesses. This does not necessarily mean that these businesses are/have the answer to clues.
9) Downtown Santa Rosa Puzzle Hunt participants agree to obey all traffic and public safety laws during their participation in the event. Teams failing to do so will be disqualified.
10) Good Luck!