Enter Scarecrow contest at annual St. Charles fest

Scarecrow Contest entries are being accepted now through Friday, Sept. 28, for the 33rd annual St. Charles Scarecrow Fest. The annual festival returns Oct. 5-7 to downtown St. Charles. There is no entry fee to participate.

The contest has multiple categories, including Mechanical; Mega; Clubs, Nonprofits and Schools; Individuals; Family; Greater St. Charles Business; and Area Business.

"This is great opportunity to bond with your family and friends, promote your organization, or advertise your business to over 100,000 visitors who flock to St. Charles every year," said DeAnn Wagner, interim executive director of the Greater St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau, the organization that produces the event.

The theme for the contest this year is the Illinois Bicentennial.

Participants are encouraged to incorporate this theme into their entry as a way to celebrate the state's anniversary, but it is not required.

Winners are announced at the conclusion of the event on Sunday and, with the exception of the Business categories, all entries are eligible to win one of three cash prizes.

Scarecrow Fest is a community event, but attracts people from across the country and has received national exposure and recognition, including being named one of the Best Fall Festivals to Celebrate the Season by Country Living.

In addition to the Scarecrow displays, attendees can enjoy live music, a carnival, pony rides and even try their hand at making their own scarecrow.

Complete contest rules, contest application and more information about the fest can be found at scarecrowfest.com.

For details, call (630) 377-6161 or visit info@scarecrowfest.com.