Downtown Ashland has turned a local raccoon’s viral fame into a holiday scavenger hunt.

The Downtown Ashland Association announced that “The Great Raccoon Hunt,” which began Tuesday, will continue through Dec. 31, inviting visitors to search for small raccoon stickers hidden in participating local businesses. Participants can snap a photo, tag AshlandVirginia on Instagram, and scan a QR code at the register to enter a holiday prize drawing. 

The event was inspired by the “Ashland ABC Bandit,” a raccoon that drew international attention late last month. The animal broke into the Virginia ABC liquor store in Ashland, tore through the shelves drinking spirits, and was later discovered passed out drunk in the store’s bathroom — a tale that quickly went viral. 

Collette Maranda, owner of Ashland Dance Academy and 110 Thompson, came up with the idea as a way to celebrate the furry mammal while supporting local businesses. 

“People around the world are enchanted by our Bandit,” Maranda said. “Why not use that excitement to support our small businesses, especially during the holiday season? It’s silly, it’s family-friendly, and it brings people right through the door.” 

The scavenger hunt ends on Dec. 31, coinciding with the release of new “Gonna Be Golden” milk chocolate bars — a collaboration with Ashland Dance Academy, Minuteman Press of Ashland and the association. 

For more information, visit LightUpTheTracks.com.