Discover The Fall Festival Scarecrow Contest

Fall Festival is back again on October 6, 7 and 8, so step into the enchanting world of autumnal charm as you wander down the picturesque Main Streets of Salisbury and Lakeville and take in the much-anticipated return of the scarecrow contest. These country streets adorned with whimsical, weird scarecrows can be just the thing to prepare you for the Halloween spirit.

But it’s not just the festival organizers who are the masterminds behind these colorful and often comical scarecrows; everyone from local businesses and organizations to schools, families, and even children are invited to partake in this vibrant tradition. It’s a celebration of community spirit where imaginations run wild and crafting talents are on full display.

These scarecrows aren’t mere flimsy straw-filled figures; they are sturdy creations mounted on a foundation of 2x2 pine. This commitment to durability ensures that these rabbits, pigs, and all sorts of crafted creatures will stand tall, guarding the streets against the (al beit, imaginary) mischief of crows and ravens.

A standard-size scarecrow stands at an impressive 5 feet in height. However, while creativity knows no bounds, there are a few Fall Festival rules to ensure that this display remains accessible and safe for all. In the spirit of inclusivity and environmental responsibility, the festival organizers kindly request that participants refrain from using perishable materials. After all, we wouldn’t want our furry friends, such as black bears or the stray raccoon, to be lured into town by the scent of decaying pumpkins and produce. That’s more trick than treat.

The SVNA’s rescue scarecrows from a previous Fall Fest. Photo by Patrick L. Sullivan