VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — If you see dinosaurs cropping up in Virginia Beach Town Center, don't panic - this isn't the latest natural disaster of 2020.
Between July 3 and July 19, the city of Virginia Beach and the Central Business District Association are promoting the Jurassic Journey art exhibit event in Town Center.
The statues are still getting set up, but by Friday, there should be 50 life-size dinosaur sculptures, complete with a talking T-Rex guide. You can find him at Fountain Plaza, near the information stand.
The event also features a digital scavenger hunt and discounts at a few Town Center businesses.
"You go from exhibit to exhibit and you follow the directions on the app and when you get to a certain level it will tell you and when you get to the very end, it will tell you all the different prizes and deals you can get at Town Center businesses and restaurants," said Jeanie Evans, the Executive Director of the Central Business District Association.
"We have a wall exhibit of a T-Rex. We call him Fred and he is wearing a mask so we encourage you to take pictures of him wearing his mask and you wearing yours," said art designer, Dr. Cheri Garr.
If you're gearing up to attend this free, outdoor event, make sure to download the "Turf Hunt" app on iPhone or Android devices first. It's the only way to participate in the photo challenges, dinosaur quizzes and mini-games that come with the exhibit.
"A new Discovery Adventure is released every 4 days so you can come back for a new experience and learn more about these prehistoric predators," wrote an organizer.
Some businesses are offering special deals to patrons who mention the Jurassic Journey. Here's a list:
- Jimmy John's: $5 Little John Combo
- Yard House: Free Kids Meal with purchase of Adult Entree
- California Pizza Kitchen: Free Kids Sundae with purchase of Kids Meal
- YMCA at Town Center: Join online between July 3-19 to receive 15% off all membership types
- Macaron Tart:10% off macarons
- The Royal Chocolate: 10% off regular-priced products and free Birnn Truffle with purchase of $10 or more
The outdoor display is open rain or shine, and guests can park for free in any public Town Center parking garage.