By Grace McAlister, Riverbend News
On Saturday, Oct. 16, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hearthstone Gardens will be hosting “Scarecrows in the Gardens.” At the event, there will be a scarecrow pageant, hayrides, a cakewalk, face painting, food, and many more fun activities for people of all ages. At 8 a.m., there will be a bird walk with Audubon Birder, John Middleton. Those who participate are encouraged to bring binoculars and cameras. Additionally, throughout the day, Elmer Elkins will have a bee exhibit with honey.
For the pageant, there are three categories: children and youth groups, adults and families and businesses/organizations. The pageants guidelines are as follows:
- Scarecrows must be constructed to withstand weather and be appropriate for family viewing.
- Scarecrow drop off will take place Friday, Oct. 8 and Saturday, Oct. 9, between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m.
- You must have your name and phone number firmly placed on the back of the scarecrow.
- After the scarecrow's drop-off, it will remain on display until the day of the festival, Saturday, Oct. 16.
- Voting will be done by the public and prizes will be presented at noon on Saturday, Oct. 16.
If you would like to sponsor a scarecrow prize or raffle item, call (386) 438-3102. Hearthstone Gardens has provided scarecrow building tips at www.hearthstonegardens.org/scarecrow-pageant. Hearthstone Gardens is located at 3300 134th Pl., in Wellborn.