School children love entering the scarecrow contest. This one, entered by a class at Haywood Elementary, depicts the schools mascot. The annual contest is open to everyone and offers cash prizes for winners in the adult and children categories.

Annual Scarecrow Contest set for October 9

Scarecrow builders get ready. The Haywood County Master Gardeners recently announced that Saturday, October 9, is the date for this year’s competition. Once again, the location of the annual event will be on the lawn of the Haywood County courthouse in Brownsville, Tenn.

“Each year our entries get bigger and more creative,” says Rita Hathcock, Haywood County Master Gardener Association president. This is the sixth year that the contest is being sponsored by the Master Gardeners. According to Hathcock, over 40 entries are expected.

The historic court square comes to life the week leading up to the contest as scarecrows of all shapes and sizes begin to pop up around the courthouse.

“It’s so much fun to drive around and see what new scarecrow has gone up during the days and week prior to the contest,” adds Hathcock.

This contest is open to everyone and you do not have to be a Haywood County resident to participate. Scarecrows can be any size and must be in family-friendly and in good taste. They cannot depict a real person. All construction materials must be non-hazardous and each entry must be securely erected and able to withstand inclement weather.

Participants have until 5 p.m., on the day of the event to erect and make final preparations to their entries. Judging will be in three categories – adult, children, and “Most Creative.” Cash prizes are awarded in the adult and children category.

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 16.

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

Entry forms are available at various locations in Brownsville, including the Haywood County Extension Office, West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, Chamber of Commerce and online at www.hatchiefallfest.com.