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ST. CHARLES – Scarecrow Fest, downsized because of the COVID-19 pandemic, has a different name this year. The Scarecrow Stroll will take the place of the annual event and unfolds Oct. 9 to 11, the St. Charles Business Alliance announced.
The Scarecrow Stroll will take place from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10 and 11.
Highlights include:
The Scarecrow Stroll will focus on a Scarecrow Contest, where local individuals, groups and businesses will place over 50 decorated and themed scarecrows outside businesses. A map will be provided on the Alliance’s website and at the information booth in front of the Municipal Building at 2 E. Main St.
A Fall Photo Opportunity Area will be located behind the old BMO Harris Bank building along Riverside Avenue.
A Scavenger Hunt throughout the downtown will feature specials from the downtown businesses. The final list is on the website.
A Craft Beer Box features seasonal beers from St. Charles breweries; pre-order is available on the Alliance's website at www.scarecrowfest.com/craftbeerbox. In person pickup will be from 3 to 7 p.m. at D&G Brewing Co.; and 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday at Pollyanna Brewing Co.
“Scarecrow in a Box” will be located behind the old BMO Harris Bank building along Riverside Avenue. Visitors can purchase a Scarecrow in a Box kit to take home for $5 from local Boy Scout Troop 60. Kits include clothing, hay, twine and stockings.
A live Pumpkin Carver will be at the St. Charles History Museum from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.
Festivities were kicking off with a Drive-In Concert in partnership with the St. Charles Park District on Thursday, Oct. 8, with $5 tickets at https://www.stcparks.org/drivein-concerts/.
The Scarecrow Stroll focus will be on safety and social distancing. There will be signage about following the guidelines throughout the city, as well as reminders to wear face masks.
More information about the Scarecrow Stroll can be found at www.scarecrowfest.com.