Parks Tacoma’ guide to Monkeyshine hide and seek
It’s Tacoma’s favorite time of year again: Monkeyshine season! Wednesday, January 29, 2025 marks the Lunar New Year and while there’s a lot of secrecy shrouding the exact timing of Monkeyshine distribution, their thematic association with the Chinese zodiac means you can expect them to start popping up around town soon.
(If you find yourself wondering, ‘What the heck is a Monkeyshine?’ then check out these fantastic explanations from ParentMap and The Weekly Volcano.)
It would be an understatement to say that Parks Tacoma loves Monkeyshine season, and we’re excited to welcome those visitors who are dropping off their beautiful pieces of work and those on the hunt to find them.
“I have so much admiration for what Ms. Monkey and the rogue artists have built,” said Visitor Engagement Supervisor Daniel Mero, who also looks forward to joining the hunt with his family each year.
Mero admits that getting people into the parks on their own time can be a struggle during the winter months. “The fact that this group has built such a sustainable, fun, and exciting culture in the city is incredible. It’s the kind of thing that we’re trying to do all the time.”
Park Guide Alex Holmes agrees.
“Monkeyshine season is my favorite time of the year in the parks,” Holmes said. “People are out and about, enjoying their parks and neighborhoods, creating art and sharing it with strangers. Traditions like this really illustrate what an amazing place Tacoma is.”
Holmes also admitted that he’s been known to create rogue Monkeyshines of his own. A keen seeker may discover one of his linocut prints hidden around town this year.
Whether you’re hiding or seeking in the parks this Monkeyshine season, our Park Guides ask that you follow these important guidelines to make sure everyone has a fun and safe experience.
- Be safe and responsible
Whether you’re poking around Point Defiance or walking the trails at Swan Creek, please follow all posted safety guidelines and use common sense when determining where to hide or look for Monkeyshines. Stay on the correct side of fences and don’t attempt to climb objects and structures that weren’t clearly designed for that purpose.
2. Avoid planted areas
There are a lot of flower beds and areas of natural growth throughout our parks. Monkeyshines should not require a seeker to step into or through them in order to be found or reached! By staying on the pathways you will help preserve sensitive habitats and keep beds in good shape for planting this spring. Heavy brush and uncleared beds can also disguise uneven ground, holes and roots that may result in a dangerous fall.
3. Respect other visitors
Parks Tacoma values the safe and welcoming spaces that many find in our parks. Please respect visitors’ personal space and do not approach, follow or act towards them in a threatening or harassing manner. We have received reports in the past of behaviors that have deterred Monkeyshine artists from distributing on Parks Tacoma’ properties and want to avoid similar incidents.
Remember, as you share the parks with other hunters, that the goal of Monkeyshines is to spread joy! In that spirit, please don’t take more than one. Feel free to snap a photo, or trade up if you find one you like better and re-hide the original but leave the extras for others to find.
Other things to try while hunting for Monkeyshines
While you’re out hunting for Monkeyshines, consider adding some of these other activities to your day:
Litter Clean-Up
As long as you’re already walking the trails and peering under bushes, why not leave the park a little prettier than you found it? Bring along some gloves and a trash bag and pick up any loose garbage that you find along the way. You can view upcoming litter cleaup events on our website here.
Agents of Discovery
Did you know there are secret agents in our parks with a special mission just for you? Download the free app and play your way through a series of activities at Cummings Park, Swan Creek Park, Tacoma Nature Center, Wright Park and Wapato Park. You can find more information on our website here.
Join a Guided Hike or Walk
Our Park Guides lead a variety of events in our parks. They’re free! Learn more on the Park Guide’s web page.
Visit a Community Center
Did you know that all youth up to age 18 are eligible for free membership to our four community centers? Adults are only $25/month. Drop on by and see what we have to offer for you and your family.
Happy Monkeyshine hunting
Good luck to everyone hiding and seeking Monkeyshines in the parks, and don’t forget to tag Parks Tacoma in all your photos so we can share your adventures!