08/25/2026
2026 Pumpkin Patch
Scarecrow Contest
Rules and Guidelines
Registration: As space is limited, entries will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis. Registration forms are available at www.FSRotary.org or by calling or e-mailing
Chelle Palmaffy (707-315-7719/ [email protected]), Marcia Adair (707-205-9597/[email protected]) or
Gerry Raycraft (707-631-5597/[email protected]).
Registration forms are due October 2, 2026.
Entry fee: FREE! There is NO cost to enter the contest.
Eligibility: This contest is open to all non-profit groups including schools, service and community groups, and youth organizations. Businesses may enter but any cash prize awarded must be donated to a non-profit group, identified at the time of entry.
Themes: Scarecrows may be traditional, whimsical, humorous, mischievous, fantasy, celebrity, or loveable. Entrants are reminded that this is a family event and that Rotary reserves the right to deny any entry. Not allowed: Bloody or violent themes, advertising, political or religious statements.
Construction: Scarecrows must be durable and able to stand up to sun, wind and rain showers as they will be displayed from October 10h through October 25th. The use of store-bought characters or figures is prohibited. All decorations must be firmly attached to your scarecrow. Feel free to bring extra props like straw bales, corn stalks, etc. The height of your scarecrow should be between 4-7 feet tall. If you choose to bring fresh vegetables or fruits (like pumpkins) they must be whole and not punctured or carved to ensure they last the duration of the contest. We reserve the right to remove any entries that do not maintain their condition to be displayed. Power -Only solar or wind power for moving parts may be used. (no electricity is provided). Five-foot metal stakes will be available on site, if needed.
Identifying Signs: Please include, as part of your display, a sign with the name of your entry and your school, group, business, or service club name. Signage dimensions must be less than 11 x 17 inches. We will assign a number to your display for voting purposes (see below).
Judging: All entries will be voted on by Pumpkin Patch/Tractor Ride visitors during three weekends in October (10-11, 17-18, 24-25). A ballot will be given to each person who rides the Tractor Ride at the Pumpkin Patch. October 25nd will be the last day to vote and the winners will be announced by October 31st. You do not need to be present to win.
Set-up: Scarecrows must be delivered and placed on display at the Pumpkin Patch on October 9, 2026, between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm. A lottery system will determine the placement of each scarecrow on the property.
Awards: All awards will be by check to the winning organizations and schools as follows: Grand Prize--$1000, Second Place--$500; Third Place--$250.
Ownership: All entries become the property of the Rotary Pumpkin Patch unless you specifically request to remove your scarecrow after the end of the context. Pick-up of scarecrows must be done between 4:00 and 6:00PM on Sunday, October 25!