A holiday classic is coming to Perry this weekend, though probably not in the form you would expect.

The Perry Public Library is hosting an escape room on Saturday, and the theme of it will be “A Christmas Story.” Deputy Library Director Misty VonBehren, who has organized escape rooms throughout the year for teenage programs, says when she came across this particular escape room she knew immediately it was something she wanted to do. Attendees of all ages are welcome to attempt to solve the puzzles, though VonBehren suggests participants watch the movie before doing the escape room. This is partly because it’s her favorite holiday movie and she loves sharing it with others, but also because it will help with the challenges.

“I do recommend that if you are not familiar with the movie, that you will want to watch the movie prior to this. Simply because a lot of the things with an escape room, you have to kind of have some knowledge of stuff. For example, one of the things is you have to do a crossword puzzle, where you know some of the main components are like, ‘What does Ralphie want for Christmas?’ And if you don’t know the answer to that, then you’re not going to be able to figure out that particular code.”

The movie is available to be checked out at the library if anyone needs a refresher. As incentive for the participants to finish the escape room, VonBehren says there will be prizes, or as “A Christmas Story” enthusiasts would say, “A major award!” “There is a major award to be had, however it’s not THE major award. However, I do have ‘A Christmas Story prizes’ for people.”

There is no cost to participate, and groups are more than welcome. The escape room will start at 2 p.m. Saturday, and if someone’s already attempting it when you arrive, VonBehren encourages you to wait and try it when that group is finished. For more information, contact the library at 515-465-3569.