The Leacock Museum is inviting kids for a day of fun, but first it’s sending them on a mission.
As the museum prepares for its annual Children’s Day, this year with a focus on author Roald Dahl, it is giving kids a chance to find golden tickets — like the ones in Dahl’s classic book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
There are 30 tickets in various spots around downtown Orillia. Everyone who finds a ticket can turn it in at the event — which is called Off the Shelf — to receive a treat.
Clues are being posted to the event’s Facebook page in the lead-up to the event. The first one was posted Wednesday. It read: “Find a Golden Ticket! Here's a clue to help: In this place there's so many stories, and oh so many categories! From Leacock to Fleming, or even Roald Dahl, I don't think this one's much of a curve ball!”
Those who don’t find the tickets are still in for an exciting day on July 27.
From 1 to 4 p.m., the museum will offer a variety of activities related to Dahl’s works, which include Matilda, The BFG and Fantastic Mr. Fox. Children will get to meet with Willy Wonka and an Oompa Loompa and have their photos taken with various props.
“It’s great seeing the kids light up and run toward their favourite character,” said museum co-ordinator Jen Martynyshyn. “I love the fact that it’s all generations of a family who seem to enjoy it.”
Dahl was a perfect fit for this year’s Children’s Day, she added.
“This one, especially, has a lot of silliness, which we’ve found works well. It’s children’s humour,” she said. “It keeps the interest of the children — and ourselves.”
The event will also offer face painting, a bubble station and a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-themed obstacle course. The Orillia Public Library and Manticore Books will also be on hand.
Admission is by donation, with the suggestion being $5.
The event will happen rain or shine.
The on-site bistro will be open for business and will feature a child-friendly menu.
The museum encourages kids to show up in costume, though it is not mandatory.
For more information, call the museum at 705-329-1908.
