UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As part of the University’s ninth annual Military Appreciation Week from Nov. 7-14, the Penn State and local communities, including servicemembers, are invited to participate in a scavenger hunt at downtown State College businesses near the University Park campus. 

In collaboration with the Downtown State College Improvement District, the Penn State Military Appreciation Week committee invites the community to take part in a scavenger hunt that spans appreciation week for an opportunity to win a $25 Downtown State College gift card. In accordance with local health and safety requirements, all participants should adhere with masking and social distancing mandates.

To participate, individuals should visit 10 downtown businesses each displaying a profile of a Penn State student, faculty, staff or alumni veteran. Those who visit and scan the QR code at all 10 businesses will complete a Google form and be entered to win one of 10 available gift cards.

Participating businesses include: 

• McLanahan’s (both locations) 
• The Tavern 
• The Corner Room 
• Lion’s Pride/Collegiate Pride 
• Balfurd Dry Cleaners (downtown location) 
• Happy Valley Optical 
• Harpers 
• Saint’s Café 
• Webster’s Bookstore Café
• Your Cigar Den 

The scavenger hunt is part of series of free, virtual military appreciation events honoring the service and sacrifice of military service members, veterans and their families. This year’s events have been adapted to a virtual format to support the health and well-being of campus and local community members due to the pandemic, including a full day of virtual programming on Veterans Day.

For the latest information about military appreciation events, visit militaryappreciation.psu.edu.