What Is Crafted Trivia?

Wren Holquist

Join that Jeopardy! guy Adam Holquist (40 Under 40 Class of 2014) as he leads a fun, competitive, art-themed group trivia series at the Erie Art Museum for their newly created Crafted Trivia nights.

CONTINUING WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18

You probably know Adam Holquist. The environmental engineer and multi-hyphenate creative is a fixture in Erie's music and art scene. You may also know that Holquist was a three-time Jeopardy! champion in 2013 when it was still hosted by the late Alex Trebek. Holquist has hosted a series of successful trivia events, most recently at Altered State Distillery. Now he's brought his Crafted Trivia nights to Erie Art Museum for a limited run.

"I've been a fan of trivia for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I loved Jeopardy! and was the kind of kid who looked through reference books for fun," recalls Holquist. He adds, "I think most corporate trivia isn't very good. So, I wanted to write the kind of game that I would want to play." The self-proclaimed "trivia snob" created his Crafted Trivia about two years ago with the main game on the third Thursday of each month at Altered State Distillery. Along the way he's done corporate events, fundraisers, and private parties too. Holquist says, "The Art Museum approached me a few months ago, and I thought it would be fun to do a more art-focused twist on my usual format."

Holquist writes all of the questions. "My wife Wren helps a lot, particularly with category ideas and concepts," he says. Teams of one to six people compete in a custom-curated trivia game tailored to the venue and audience that venue attracts. "The game at the museum is definitely more art-forward than my usual game … for example the first game had a round on movies about art and artists. And my games always have a music round, because I'm me," he quips.

While the first of the Crafted Trivia Nights at Erie Art Museum was last month, you still have two more opportunities to join in on the fun this season. When asked about the potential for a spring or summer series at the museum Holquist replied, "We're not sure yet — if it becomes a big hit I think we're all open to extending it."

It should be noted that this trivia game isn't only for fun — there are prizes! First place receives an exclusive private tour of the museum with a guided art-making session, plus a local wine and cheese spread. The winning team will also return for the next trivia night free of charge to defend their title. Second place earns six free admission passes to the museum, while third place receives two. Bonus: every team takes home a commemorative medal!

Crafted Trivia nights include a cash/card refreshments bar. Those who aren't ready to throw their hats into the trivia ring but want to check out the vibe or explore the museum may do so subject to regular museum admission fees.

Wednesdays, Dec. 18 and Jan. 15 // 7 to 9 p.m. // $30 per team // To register, visit: erieartmuseum.org