Hillsborough Scarecrow Festival To Spotlight America’s 250th Anniversary

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough Township is preparing for its annual Scarecrow Festival, with this year’s event set to highlight America’s Semiquincentennial as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

Registration is now open for township residents, businesses, organizations, schools, classrooms and sports teams, according to the township.

The festival display area will open Sept. 28 for visitors to view entries and vote throughout October.

Online voting is scheduled to run from Sept. 29 through Oct. 26.

Visitors will be able to cast votes using QR codes placed throughout the display area or through a form on the Hillsborough Township website.

"Hillsborough Township is excited to celebrate America's 250th anniversary with this special edition of the Scarecrow Festival," announced Mayor Catherine Payne.

The township said registration to enter the community event is free.

Interested participants can sign up using the form on the Hillsborough Township website starting now.

The registration information will also be posted on the Township Facebook page, Mayor’s eNews and Experience Hillsborough newsletters, according to the announcement.

A registration link will also be sent to local businesses through the HBA newsletter.

The annual fall event began in 2021 and has grown in popularity, according to the township.

This year’s festival will include a range of scarecrow designs, from traditional figures to pop culture-inspired entries, along with a patriotic category marking the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The township said the event is intended to showcase the creativity of local artists, families, organizations and businesses.

The Scarecrow Festival is also designed as a community-wide event for visitors of all ages.

Attendees can walk through the festival grounds to see the displays during the monthlong run.

The township said local businesses and organizations are strongly encouraged to take part as a way to build community awareness at no cost.

The festival is set to conclude Oct. 26 with an awards ceremony and family fun event.

That closing celebration will include a trophy presentation, children’s activities and seasonal refreshments, according to the township.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.