Scarecrow Stroll slated for this weekend in St. Charles

These days, even scarecrows must socially distance.

The St. Charles Business Alliance is sponsoring a Scarecrow Stroll this Friday through Sunday, where people can walk throughout downtown St. Charles and view more than 50 socially-distanced scarecrows designed by individuals, businesses, schools and various city entities.

There are many other activities taking place, but the highlights are the scarecrows and accompanying contest, the idea of supporting local businesses and staying safe while having fun.

“We wanted to find a way to still do the event but scaled down,” said St. Charles Business Alliance Events Manager Amy Curione. “And we wanted to continue the scarecrow tradition.”

In past years, the St. Charles Business Alliance held its annual Scarecrow Fest with a carnival, craft show, tens of thousands of people in attendance and all the scarecrows displayed in Lincoln Park. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, put an end to those plans for this year.

People still can vote for their favorite scarecrows, which can be navigated through a scarecrow map found online or at the information booth in front of the St. Charles Municipal Building on Main Street. The scarecrow photo entrant in three categories with the most “likes” on Facebook will win $500.

A pumpkin carver will perform at the St. Charles History Museum from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and there's a scavenger hunt featuring specials from downtown businesses. People can walk through downtown and look at window displays or take pictures at a photo opportunity area on Riverside Avenue.

Near the photo opportunity area, local Boy Scout Troop 60 will sell boxed scarecrow kits for $5. People can use the kits, which include clothing, hay, twine and stockings, to build their own scarecrow for their home.

There are also craft beer boxes for sale on the Alliance's website at www.scarecrowfest.com/craftbeerbox. Pickup of the boxes can be made at D & G Brewing Company and Pollyanna Brewing Company.

In accordance with Phase 4 of the state's Restore Illinois guidelines, there will be hand-washing stations and signage to encourage visitors to wear masks and socially distance.

“We really feel it's important that the community still has something safe and fun to look forward to,” Curione said. “We wanted to keep that fun and festive atmosphere for the community.”