Scarecrow Stroll 2026

Explore creative, handcrafted scarecrow displays along the garden paths in this festive autumn celebration.

From the moment you arrive, the Garden becomes a playful celebration of fall. Here’s what you’ll experience during the Scarecrow Stroll: Scarecrows Around Every Corner: Explore imaginative scarecrow displays placed along meandering garden paths. Each one has its own personality, story, and charm. Some are humorous, others artistic, and some feel straight out of a fairy tale. Local Creativity on Display: Every scarecrow is handcrafted by someone in our community—artists, schools, families, and local businesses. This makes each visit unique and full of heart. Autumn in Full Color: October is one of the most beautiful months in the Garden. Colorful leaves, crisp air, and seasonal blooms create a perfect setting for photos and peaceful nature walks. Family Photo Moments: Strike a pose with your favorite scarecrow. Whether you’re capturing a family outing or snapping selfies with friends, there are plenty of photo-worthy moments throughout the stroll. Vote for Your Favorites! After exploring the Scarecrow Stroll, you can vote for your favorite scarecrow! Look for flyers and signs around the Garden with QR codes—just scan and cast your vote directly from your phone. The scarecrow with the most votes will win a Garden Friend–level membership, and the winner will be announced once the Scarecrow Stroll concludes! Important Dates August 26: Application deadline August 31: Selected participants notified August 31 – September 28: Build your creation September 28 – October 1: Deliver creation to IBG October 1 – November 2: Exhibit on Display November 3-7: Scarecrow pick-up Scarecrow Guidelines Family-friendly, weatherproof designs only Maximum footprint is 3 feet by 3 feet, with a height limit of 6 feet Do not use hay (straw is okay to use), glitter, cardboard, or live plants No advertising or giveaways. Limited branding such as logos on shirts or hats is allowed Participants are responsible for installing, maintaining, and removing their scarecrows Be Part of the Stroll Community members, businesses, classrooms, and artists of all ages are invited to design and build a scarecrow for display at the Garden. Show off your creativity and help bring Scarecrow Stroll to life as we transform the Garden into a joyful fall wonderland for all to enjoy. Create Something to Celebrate Let your creativity shine by designing a one-of-a-kind scarecrow for display at the Garden. Open to individuals, families, classrooms, businesses, and artists of all ages. From playful to imaginative, each creation helps bring Scarecrow Stroll to life. Choose a theme, gather your materials, and create a scarecrow that reflects your unique style. Share your creation with the community and inspire visitors as they explore the Garden this fall. Join the Fall Fun Be part of a community tradition that brings people together through creativity and seasonal discovery. Your scarecrow will help transform the Garden into a festive fall experience for visitors of all ages. Wander, explore, and enjoy the creativity of our community throughout Scarecrow Stroll. Celebrate the season by adding your own touch to this beloved Garden tradition. Help create a magical fall experience where imagination, community, and nature come together.