See over 120 scarecrows at St. Charles Scarecrow Weekend

St. Charles Scarecrow Weekend returns to downtown St. Charles Friday through Sunday, Oct. 9-11. The 41st annual festival will feature an array of free family-friendly events including live entertainment, activities, the Scarecrow Contest and more.

The highlight of the weekend, the Scarecrow Contest invites visitors to explore over 120 scarecrows along Riverside Avenue, Lincoln Park and 1st Street and vote for their favorites across four categories: Individual, Clubs/Not-for-Profits/Schools, Business and Mega/Mechanical.

“Every year, we see Scarecrow Weekend continue to grow with new elements and even more participation in the Scarecrow Contest,” said Jenna Sawicki, St. Charles Business Alliance executive director. “It’s amazing to see the community get together every year to celebrate the season in St. Charles, support local, and to admire all of the wonderful scarecrows that are on display for the event.”

The Family Zone in Lincoln Park will offer live music, dance teams, family fun booths and roaming entertainment, including Ghostbusters, The Leslie Hunt Band and The Big Al Wetzel Band.

Visitors to the Activity Zone on Riverside Avenue between Main Street and Illinois Avenue will find the John Measner Magic Truck, rock climbing wall, an inflatable corn maze, a special appearance from the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile on Saturday and more.

On the 1st Street Plaza, performances will include The Frizz, Daddy Wasn’t There and Phase V. And there will be a “Fall in Love” photo opportunity and a variety of mascot appearances.

In the Municipal Building parking lot, visitors will find Scarecrow-to-Go and Jurassic Park Replica Jeeps with free photo opportunities. Plus, Colonial Café’s Kitchen Sink truck will be handing out free scoops during select times throughout the weekend.

Of course there will be food. In the Lincoln Park Family Zone, there’s Just Kabobs and Taco Urbano and Kimmer’s Ice Cream on Saturday morning and all day Sunday. In the Activity Zone on Riverside Avenue, The Arcada Theatre and Franklin’s Hot Dogs will be selling food, while Windy Acres Farm will be selling fall treats.

For details, visit scarecrowfest.com or call the St. Charles Business Alliance at 630-443-3967.