Downtown Cranford Scarecrow Stroll
The 17th annual Scarecrow Stroll Returns This Fall to Downtown Cranford!
Starting October 11, over 100 scarecrows will line the streets of Downtown Cranford. The scarecrows are created by local residents, businesses, organizations, schools, and families. Visitors are invited to vote for their favorite scarecrows in a number of categories, with a number of new categories being introduced this year.
Call for Entries
The Scarecrow Stroll is open to local residents, schools, organizations and Cranford business owners. The deadline to enter is Monday, September 30.
The Competition
Main Categories (voted on by the public)
- 12 and Under
- Adults/Families
- Schools/Organizations
- Cranford Businesses
- Best Overall
Prizes: 1st: $100 Downtown Cranford gift card; 2nd: $75 Downtown Cranford gift card; 3rd: $50 Downtown Cranford gift card (prizes are awarded in each category, with the exception of businesses)
Character Categories (voted on by a select group of judges)
- Best Reuse of Materials/Most Resourceful
- Show off your use of reusable materials including old clothing newspaper, plastic bottles, etc.
- Most Cranford Spirit
- The scarecrow that displays the most Cranford spirit will walk away the winner!
- Fright Night
- Can you create a scarecrow that actually scares and gives everyone a fright?
- Funny Bones
- Create a scarecrow that makes everyone laugh!
- Most Creative
- For those who think outside the box, this category is for you!
- Best Craftsmanship/Attention to Detail
- If you are known for your attention to detail, then this is the category to show it off in.
- Best Celebrity Impression
- Have an idea for a scarecrow that resembles your favorite celebrity? Bring it to life and you could win!
- Best Pop Culture Icon (Television Show/Movie/Book Reference)
- Some of the most popular scarecrows are those that pay homage to pop culture, whether it’s a character from a video game, TV show, movie, or book.
- Carecrow
- Is your scarecrow about giving back to the community? Then you might win this category, which is all about supporting the community and giving back.
- Kids’ Creation
- Kids, this one’s for you! The winner in this category must be created only by kids. We can’t wait to see what they come up with!
Prizes: $25 Downtown Cranford gift card
Voting
The public will vote on their favorite entries from October 11 – October 20. Voting will be done through a digital platform.
Check-In
- Check-in at Eastman Plaza Clock, Wednesday Oct. 9, 3-6pm or stop in the DMC Office starting Monday, October 7th from 8:30am-4:30pm.
- At check-in you will receive a nametag, pole assignment and zip-ties to secure your scarecrow.
- All items must be secured – no loose items can be a part of the display.
- No tape can be used on the light poles.
Restrictions
- Please keep in mind that this is a family event. Scarecrows reflecting controversial, social, religious or political opinions/statements will NOT be accepted. We reserve the right to deny scarecrows considered to be offensive.
- No references to alcohol, smoking, or illicit substances.
- The scarecrow should be constructed to withstand the elements. No breakable items (i.e. glass bottles) should be a part of your display.
- It is understood that the Downtown Office may use photographs of the scarecrows, as well as the info contained on the entry form for publicity & promotion.
Removal:
- Scarecrows must be taken down no later than November 3rd.
- All items must be removed at the conclusion of the Stroll, including bales of hay.
- Any scarecrows that aren’t taken down by November 3rd will be removed and disposed of.
Scarecrow News & Weather Updates:
After registering please check your email, our Facebook page, Instagram, and https://downtowncranford.org/ for updates.
