Scarecrows, Pumpkins, Scary Music Abound at Festival

While Barrington’s Scarecrow Festival is really just three hours long, in a sense it lasts for six weeks, said Anne Garrette, marketing and events coordinator for the village.

That’s because an ambiance of celebration is created by the imaginative scarecrows gracing merchant’s businesses, from mid-September through Halloween.

Although walking streets is the best way to enjoy scarecrow watching, residents can get a peak of the scarecrows on the village’s website.

Garrette created online voting for the scarecrow contest three years ago. Awards include first, second and third place based on votes. There is also a People’s Choice that goes to two more scarecrows.

“With the peoples choice, maybe they did not get most votes, but we want to say ‘boy that was clever,’ “ Garrette said. “In the first four days of voting, we already had 600 votes.”

The Scarecrow Festival has been a Barrington tradition for 11 years. This year, it will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at in downtown Barrington.

Garrette stressed that the festival is free, although there is a charge for food items.

“There will be pony rides with four ponies and handlers; we’ll have 500 pumpkins from , 900 sugar cookies from so kids can decorate their own cookies. The will have games for children and prizes; will bring songs and activities,” Garrette said.

Children will also get to try their hand at making their own scarecrows. Kids can also enjoy a moonwalk and slide.

The whole family will be entertained by Bob the DJ in his special costume, playing spooky songs.

The Barrington Breakfast Rotary will grilling a variety of foods and will be there with a variety of ice creams and sweet treats.

“It’s very fast, kids go from station to station. If we didn’t unplug Bob the DJ, we would still be there into the evening. It’s really a lot of fun and we’ve been blessed the last few years with beautiful weather,” Garrette said.