Register For Scarecrows On Parade In Manhattan

MANHATTAN, IL — Scarecrows on Parade is back for all Manhattan residents, families, businesses and organizations. According to the Village of Manhattan, all are invited to take part in the scarecrow making contest, and all scarecrows will be displayed on U.S. Route 52 from Oct. 12 through Oct. 31 (Halloween). Use art supplies, old clothing, and whatever crafty items you can think of to transform straw, wood and burlap into your festive scarecrow.

Individuals or groups can now register to participate in the contest, and have until Oct. 9 to do so. Completed scarecrows must be dropped off at Manhattan Village Hall, 260 Market Place, no later than Oct. 9.

Free scarecrow frames are provided by the village and those who are registered can be picked them up at Village Hall.

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The village reminds those who register that this contest is family-friendly, adding that scarecrows should be "whimsical, humorous, mischievous or loveable - NOT frightening."

"Monsters, gruesome, bloody or especially scary entries will be disqualified," the village added. "The Village of Manhattan reserves the right to disqualify entries they feel to be distasteful or not family friendly."

>> Construction, size limit and more information

Contest: Prizes awarded for best overall scarecrows —

• 1st Place: $250 VISA Gift Card
• 2nd Place : $150 VISA Gift Card

Registration forms can be found online at villageofmanhattan.org.

Send details on fall and Halloween happenings in Manhattan, including health guidelines being put in place, to rebecca.bream@patch.com.