Chinese New Years Treasure Hunt March 3, 2007

The Chinese New Year Treasure Hunt is a unique night time urban sleuthing adventure played on the streets of Chinatown, North Beach, and Telegraph Hill on the night of the annual Chinese New Year Parade. When the hunt begins, treasure hunting teams have four hours to solve sixteen clues leading them to obscure landmarks, forgotten architectural delights and vestiges of San Francisco's colorful past. Players can come with a team already organized, or can join like-minded hunters at the event; it's a great way to make new friends.

Familiarity with San Francisco geography or history is useful, but is not required to win. The clues, or puzzles, are designed to test various skills: map reading; knowledge of popular culture, current events, science or literature; crossword puzzle solving; cracking simples codes, etc. Everyone on a team gets to contribute, and must collaboratively agree on what they think is the correct solution to each clue.

The challenge (and the fun) does not end there. The team must go to each of the mystery locations they have identified and search for landmarks referred to in the clue. Sharp eyes, flashlights and close collaboration are required to spot the markers indicating they're in the correct place, and on the right trail.

Each clue leads to a specific site in the one square mile playing area, where teams search for a secret item which proves they correctly solved that clue. Teams solving the most clues in the shortest time each receive prizes and earn the right to gloat. Play competitively, or relax and make it a richly rewarding and entertaining walking tour. It's up to your team style.

Proceeds from the treasure hunt benefit two great local non-profit organizations: the Circus Center and San Francisco Food Bank

Official Website: http://www.sftreasurehunt.com/