Scary politics at Barrington Scarecrow Festival

With fall in full swing, Barrington is getting ready for its 8th annual Scarecrow Festival.

The free festival, sponsored by the village and Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce, will feature scarecrow-making, hay rides, pumpkin- and cookie-decorating, games and activities for kids.

The event is scheduled for noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18 at Memorial Park in downtown Barrington.

Materials for scarecrow-building will be provided, and festival-goers can bring clothing and accessories to personalize their creations.

Local businesses are already creating and displaying their own scarecrows. Area residents are encouraged to check out the village's Web site at barrington-il.gov to vote for their favorite.