The village of Sierakowo was a pioneer where a hobbits village was created. The choice of the theme was not accidental. The landscape of Sierakowo resembles the land of Shire from the novel by J.R.R. Tolkien. Some similarities to Hobbits were identified: Hobbits were a personification of traditional (rural) culture; they (generally) did not like to travel far or chase adventures.

This idea was tentatively accepted by the village representatives participating in the workshop and then presented and accepted on the general assembly of the village inhabitants. At this meeting, its participants also prepared an initial plan to create a thematic village within its area, for story line games and active education.

The Hobbiton village was created by citizens of Sierakowo, with active involvement of outsiders: students, Tolkien’s fans, scouts and inhabitants of neighboring villages. The capstone event is a story line game. Game participants are divided into teams and start with maps and other necessary equipment. The story is linked to the Tolkien’s Hobbits’ trilogy and includes elements of country life – Hobbits were farmers, weren’t they?

Participants’ path leads through the fields, forest, meadows and villages. They meet various characters from Tolkien’s book; every character has a task for them – a riddle, challenge of skills or another test. At the end of the game all teams meet in the village center, for some more games and fun.

The story line game involves usually some fifteen people: characters on the game path, at the final meeting place and at catering. In 2005 the game was conducted from June to September.

Some 5000 visitors participated in the game, predominantly children and youth. There were also a few families and retirees’ groups. Team building events were organized for corporate clients. In 2006 around 7000 guests are expected. Nine village festivals were organized since 2000.