To support local business in Hoke County, just follow the M&Ms.

The Rockfish Community Chamber of Commerce is planning a drive-by scavenger hunt to bring attention to local businesses, and encourage some family fun.

“The goal is to get people out and about in a manner that will allow for social distancing,” Earlene Harper of the Chamber said.

The driving route, where seekers can follow the scavenger hunt clues, will run between Rockfish and Raeford. Crafters and vendors will be set up along the way, and different local businesses will offer items for sale.

Harper got the idea from her granddaughter, who enjoys hunting for a hidden treat of peanut M&Ms as an incentive for cleaning her room.

“I thought you know what, we could put that on a bigger scavenger hunt and have it here in Hoke County,” Harper said.

The plan is to have people dressed as the M&M characters Red, Yellow, Blue, Green, Orange and Brown, for hunters to find and photograph as they follow the clues and visit local businesses. The Rockfish Community Chamber is posting tidbits about each of the M&M characters – like Red, who’s a leader and likes to cook.

The scavenger hunt is set for April 17, but the first clue is up on the Rockfish Community Chamber’s Facebook page now, along with fun M&M facts and more. The group plans to set up a website for the event, and will have more information on the way closer to the date. People interested in participating are asked to RSVP to give planners an idea of how many people will be coming.

For more information or to get involved, email the Rockfish Community Chamber at rockfishchamber@gmail.com, call (910) 638-2661, or visit the nonprofit online at Rockfishchamber.org or at the group’s Facebook page.