DC Emancipation Day FAQ

“Free in DC: Celebrating 150 Years of Emancipation” Scavenger Hunt FAQs

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What is “Free in DC: Celebrating 150 Years of Emancipation” Scavenger Hunt?
Free in DC is a smartphone-based scavenger hunt commemorating April 16th, DC Emancipation Day. This year will mark the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s act freeing all enslaved people in the District of Columbia nine months before the Emancipation Proclamation freed those in the rebellious states. To commemorate this Civil War event, Cultural Tourism DC, Ford’s Theatre, President Lincoln’s Cottage, and the Willard InterContinental Washington present “Free in DC,” an interactive, citywide scavenger hunt.

When can I go on Free in DC?
Free in DC will be available starting April 16, 2012.

How can I go on Free in DC?
First you’ll need to download SCVNGR from your smartphone’s app store. Then create a profile. (We suggest creating the profile prior to starting the scavenger hunt.) On April 16 open SCVNGR and click on “treks.” Finally select “Free in DC” from the available SCVNGR treks. Follow instructions to complete short challenges at 11 historic locations all around the city.

What is SCVNGR?
SCVNGR is a location-based smartphone game platform. It is available for free download from your smartphone’s app store. Visit http://www.scvngr.com for more details.

How do I qualify for a prize?
You earn points every time you complete a challenge. The 30 competitors with the highest scores by the end of April 16 will receive prizes. The grand prize winner will be chosen at random from those eligible.

• What can I win?
  
• The 30 competitors with the highest scores by the end of April 16 will receive prizes:
• One lucky winner will receive the Willard Wow Grand Prize. Two-night weekend stay for a lucky couple in a Deluxe Room at the Willard InterContinental.
• Twenty-nine of our clever competitors will receive the Emancipation Day gift bags courtesy of President Lincoln’s Cottage.

How much time should I budget to play?
Our experts recommend a minimum of two hours for the Type As among you. More laid-back players might take up to four hours. Factor in transportation because you’re going to see a lot of DC!

How do I claim my prize?
All prize winners will be contacted by Cultural Tourism DC via email with details of how to claim your prize. Winners of the Willard Wow Grand Prize must be at least 18 years old.