Participants in this year’s Scarecrow Contest are showing lots of creativity in designing their masterpieces, such as this depiction of the consequences of drinking and driving. Winners will be decided Saturday, October 11, during Fun on the Square beginning at 3 p.m.

Scarecrows; Fun on the Square October 11 features local talents

While the official opening ceremonies for the Hatchie Fall Fest, in Brownsville, Tenn., does not occur for another week, the Haywood County Master Gardeners will get a jump on things with its Annual Scarecrow Contest and Fun on the Square. The event will begin at 3 p.m., October 11, on the lawn of the Haywood County Courthouse.

New this year, the event will feature a free concert by students of the Kincaid/Gooch Studio and other local talents. Hot dog concessions will be available along with homemade ice cream. This will also be an opportunity for attendees to purchase their 2008 Hatchie Fall Fest t-shirts at a pre-festival discount.

Participants in the Scarecrow Contest will have until 5 p.m., to erect and make final preparations to their entries. Judging will be in three categories – adult, children, and “Most Creative.” After the judging, the scarecrows will remain on the courthouse lawn and cash and gift prizes will be awarded to the winners during the Hatchie Fall Fest, October 18.

An award will also be given for “People’s Choice” and will go to the scarecrow with the most popular vote. Attendees at both Fun on the Square and the Hatchie Fall Fest will have an opportunity to cast their vote for this award.

For more information about Fun on the Square or the Hatchie Fall Fest, visit www.allaboutbrownsville.net or call 731-780-5144.