St. Charles Scarecrow Contest Extends Entry Deadline

ST. CHARLES, IL — There's still time to get creative for St. Charles' annual Scarecrow Contest.

The St. Charles Business Alliance has extended the deadline to enter the 2026 Scarecrow Contest, part of Scarecrow Weekend, which is scheduled for Oct. 9 to 11 in downtown St. Charles.

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Businesses, clubs, not-for-profits, schools, families and individuals can enter a scarecrow in one of four categories. Entries must be submitted by Tuesday, Sept. 22, and there is no cost to participate.

The contest categories are:

• Mega/Mechanical: Open to everyone.
• Clubs/Not-For-Profit/Schools: Open to clubs, nonprofits and schools.
• Individual: Open to individuals and families not affiliated with a business or organization.
• Business: Open to businesses.

The three traditional categories offer $200 for first place, $150 for second place and $100 for third place, according to a news release. The Mega/Mechanical category offers $500 for first place, $350 for second place and $250 for third place.

Those interested in participating can submit an entry form online or download a printable form through the St. Charles Scarecrow Festival website. Printed forms can be mailed or dropped off at the St. Charles Business Alliance, 2 E. Main St.

More information about the contest and Scarecrow Weekend is available at scarecrowfest.com.