News Summary
This fall, New Baltimore will celebrate the 20th anniversary of its annual scarecrow contest, inviting community members and visitors to showcase their creativity. Entries will be accepted on September 24 and 25, followed by voting from September 29 to November 2. With prizes for various categories, this event has become a significant tradition that enhances the local spirit and community engagement, drawing attention to downtown New Baltimore.
New Baltimore Annual Scarecrow Contest Celebrates 20th Anniversary This Fall
New Baltimore is gearing up for its much-anticipated annual scarecrow contest, now in its 20th year. The event aims to engage the local community and attract visitors to downtown New Baltimore while celebrating the creative spirit of its participants. Organizer Sandy McClure is optimistic about a significant turnout this season, which promises to make this year’s contest more vibrant and exciting than ever.
Entries for the contest will be accepted on September 24 and 25, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at New Baltimore City Hall. Each scarecrow submitted will be assigned a unique number, as participants prepare for display along lamp posts on Washington and Green Streets.
Voting for the scarecrows will take place from September 29 to November 2. Residents and visitors can cast their votes at several participating businesses throughout downtown New Baltimore. Winners will be announced on November 3, with prizes awarded in three categories: adult, children’s, and local organization/business categories. The first-place winner in each category will receive a $100 cash prize, while second-place winners will take home $50.
Participants interested in joining the contest may do so by submitting an entry form and paying a modest $10 entry fee. It is noteworthy that individuals, groups, or businesses from outside New Baltimore are welcome to enter, encouraging a broader range of creativity and participation.
Contest Guidelines
To ensure uniformity and safety, all scarecrows must be displayed on a 2-by-4 post and must not exceed a height of 5 feet 7 inches. Additionally, they should not touch the ground, and there should be no materials placed on the ground around the scarecrows. Strict guidelines prohibit the submission of any political scarecrows, maintaining a friendly and festive atmosphere for all participants.
Once the contest concludes, scarecrows must be picked up between November 3 and November 10. This allows participants to take their creations home, preserving the memories of their involvement in this community tradition.
Event Background
The scarecrow contest has been an integral part of New Baltimore’s fall festivities since its inception 20 years ago, originating alongside the “Ride The Wave” initiative aimed at fostering community spirit and promoting local events. The contest continues to flourish with ongoing support from the city’s recreational department and the Downtown Development Authority, underscoring its significance in enhancing the fall season atmosphere.
Through this contest, New Baltimore not only showcases its local talent but also enhances its appeal as a destination for both residents and visitors looking for charming seasonal activities. With the combination of creativity and community involvement, the upcoming 20th anniversary is expected to be a celebration of both tradition and innovation.
Entry forms are readily available at City Hall or can be accessed online at cityofnewbaltimore.org. As the 20th anniversary of the scarecrow contest approaches, residents are encouraged to participate, cast their votes, and enjoy the festive spirit that the event has brought to New Baltimore over the years.
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Additional Resources
- Voice News: Scarecrow Contest Celebrates 20th Year
- Google Search: New Baltimore Scarecrow Contest
- Voice News: Get in the Game
- Wikipedia: Fall Festivals
- Voice News: New Baltimore Scarecrow Contest Seeks Entries
- Google News: New Baltimore
- Voice News: Scarecrow Contest Winners Named
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Scarecrow
- Voice News: MDOT Sidewalks and Roadway Work
- Bandsintown: Boondox – The Scarecrow Event
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
