Scarecrows in the Gardens 2026

Get creative and be part of one of Maclay Gardens’ favorite fall traditions!

Each October, Scarecrows in the Gardens transforms Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park into a festive display of handmade scarecrows created by local businesses, nonprofits, schools, students, families, clubs, and community groups. Visitors stroll through the Gardens, enjoy the displays, and vote for their favorite scarecrow.

This year’s scarecrows will be on display throughout October, with People’s Choice voting October 3–31.

Entry Categories & Fees

Adult/Business: $25
Nonprofit: $15
Student: $10

Prizes

A winner in each entry category will be selected by a panel of judges and will receive:

• $50 cash prize + a $50 Friends of Maclay Gardens membership. 

Park visitors will also select a People’s Choice Award winner, who will receive:

• $50 cash prize + a $50 Friends of Maclay Gardens membership

Winners will be announced through the Friends of Maclay Gardens website and Facebook page, and at the park’s Ranger Station and Visitor Center kiosks.

Important Dates

Entry deadline: September 25, 2026
Scarecrow setup: September 27–28, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
People’s Choice voting: October 3–31, 2026

Participants will be assigned a setup date and time after their completed entry form and fee are received. Each entrant is responsible for installing their scarecrow.

Scarecrow Guidelines

1. Scarecrows must be in good taste and not reflect controversial, social, or political situations.
2. Scarecrows must be constructed to withstand a variety of weather conditions.
3. The Gardens reserves the right to refuse any scarecrow entry or remove any that may deteriorate or become unsightly.
4. No handouts, promotional materials, or free giveaways can be associated with any entry.
5. Potted live plants are not permitted. Mulch and hay are not permitted at the base of any display.
6. Scarecrows must be brought to the Gardens on the assigned days and times in September. A time and date will be assigned for the installation upon receipt of entry form and fee. Each entrant is responsible for the installation of their scarecrow(s).
7. The Gardens will provide a metal mounting post (re-bar) and designate a location for each scarecrow, which should be assembled prior to delivery to the park.
8. Exhibits may not exceed 10′ X 10′ square space. The Gardens will display a standard-sized sign to identify the entry. On the sign will be the name of the scarecrow entry, name of the individual or group who created it, and the story.
9. Scarecrows must be picked up and removed from the Gardens November 1st and 2nd.

Gather your team, dream up a great design, and join us for Scarecrows in the Gardens 2026!

Questions? Contact Helen Purvis at (850)251-7171 or jpurvis77@comcast.net; Jana Walling at (850)264-9627 or jipwfl@hotmail.com