Scarecrow fest and contest in Barrington

Barrington’s Scarecrow Festival is back this fall, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, at Memorial Park in downtown Barrington. The free festival will feature pony rides; scarecrow, pumpkin and cookie decorating; games; and a moonwalk and slide for the kids.

Materials for scarecrows will be provided, and festival goers can bring clothing and accessories to personalize their creations. Bob the DJ will be on hand to delight the crowd with his special costume and favorite spooky songs.

Staff from Barrington Community Child Care Center and Language Stars will provide games and activities for the children. The Barrington Breakfast Rotary will be grilling a variety of foods, which will be available for purchase. Kaleidoscoops will be there with a variety of ice creams and sweet treats, available for purchase.

Meanwhile, you can vote through Oct. 31 for your favorite scarecrow. More than 50 merchants have created original scarecrows to adorn their store fronts and businesses.

Vote for your favorite at www.barrington-il.gov, and click on the quick Link — Scarecrow Voting. Photos of all of the scarecrows will be posted. Click on the photo of your favorite scarecrow and an email will pop up. Hit “send” and your vote will automatically be cast. Vote for as many as you like!

The contest ends Monday, Oct. 31; winners will be announced on the Village website.