The Monroe Township Community Affairs team is gearing up for its annual scarecrow contest on Main Street next month.
“Our Main Street Committee started it several years ago,” said Director of Community Affairs Brandee Derieux. “We have not had many participants but are hoping to change that this year.”
The free event will start on Oct. 1 and participants – including businesses – will be able to create their scarecrow masterpieces from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., after checking in at the Pfeiffer Center. Those who are unable to come that day will have through Oct. 8 to create their scarecrow. Creations will be judged to obtain a special gift card and winners will be announced on the Community Affairs Facebook page by Oct. 31.
Prizes will be awarded for adults (13 and up), kids (12 and under) and groups (family, friends or businesses).
“There is no specific theme, but I would love for it to be Disney, if there was one,” said Derieux.
Scarecrows can be in any style, but their structures must be durable and able to survive through wind and rain. All decorations must be firmly attached; a post with rope or wire and lumber is suggested for the body, while broomsticks are suggested for the arms. There should be no sharp edges or objects that could injure passers-by and real pumpkins are discouraged because they are unlikely to last throughout the event.
“It’s fun and lets the resident’s and local businesses participate in the decorating of the center and part of Main Street,” Derieux noted.
Scarecrows must be picked up on Nov. 5, or they will be thrown out two days later.
For more information and to sign up for the contest, visit tinyurl.com/scarecrow2022.
Other upcoming township events include the 2022 fall festival and Halloween parade, presented by the Monroe Parks and Recreation Commission on Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. through 2 p.m. The day will include pumpkin carving, hayrides, games and puzzles and pony rides. And a trunk-or-treat will be hosted by the Community Affairs team on Oct. 28 at Mary Mazza Duffy Field.
For more information about other happenings, visit the township Facebook page.
