3rd Annual Scarecrow Contest

Kennebunkport Historical Society Scarecrow Contest FAQs

What is the Scarecrow Contest?

Anyone – families, businesses, students, teachers, community residents- can enter a scarecrow into the contest. This year scarecrows will be inspired by Historic Kennebunkport. Our community will cast their votes for their favorite scarecrow.

How do you enter the scarecrow contest?

You can register online for the contest for FREE. You must register by October 13th, 2024. You can register more than one scarecrow if you choose. The Scarecrow contest helps to support the Kennebunkport Historical Society, a non-profit, member-supported organization.

Where and when do the scarecrows get displayed?

The scarecrows must be delivered to the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s “White Columns” at 8 Maine Street, by October 14th, 2024. The Kennebunkport Historical Society will provide you with your numbered scarecrow display space. Voting begins on October 15th. Ensure that your scarecrow can endure the outdoor weather. All entrants must remove their scarecrow by November 1st, 2024.

What should my scarecrow look like?

Your scarecrow should be inspired by historic Kennebunkport. Imagine sea captains, sailors, boat builders, fishermen, lobstermen, farmers, carpenters, store clerks, shoemakers, teachers, blacksmiths, innkeepers, tavern owners, bakers, quilters, ministers and more.

Entries may choose to include multiple scarecrows (or whimsical characters), as well as props and decor to reflect the theme of your display.

It must NOT display any derogatory words, symbols, or nudity. No politics! It can display business, family, team, or group names. The Board Members of the Historical Society will review all scarecrows before they are displayed to ensure compliance.

Electricity will not be provided for displays and flammable objects are not allowed.

Photos from last year's contest displayed below for inspiration.

Where will the scarecrows be displayed?

All scarecrows will be displayed on the front lawn at White Columns (8 Maine Street) for everyone to see. They will also be posted on all of the Historical Society’s social media platforms for the opportunity to have online voters.

What are the contest dates?

• Register online by October 13th, 2024

• Scarecrows will be set up for display from October 14 – October 31.

• Voting will take place on site October 14-31 as well as on our website during these dates.

• The grand prize winner will be announced on Wednesday, November 1st on our Website and social media.

How do you vote?

Voting cards are available for $1 each, and there's no limit to the number of times you can cast your vote. For example, a $10 donation = 10 votes for the scarecrow(s) of your choice. The proceeds generated from the voting cards will be shared between the creator of the winning scarecrow and the Kennebunkport Historical Society. You are allowed to cast a vote/votes on your own scarecrow.

Voting cards will be available to purchase at the White Columns gift shop and online at Kporths.com.

Voters will be asked to judge the Scarecrow displays by the following criteria:

• Creativity/Originality

• Technical Aspects

Read more about last year's contest on News Center Maine: https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/entertainment/contest-for-best-scarecrow-in-kennebunkport-raises-funds-for-historical-society/97-c20e697a-9edb-493c-9ea9-563b16293a82

Example photos (from last year’s contest shown below):

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

White Columns, 8 Maine Street, Kennebunkport, United States