Staff
Meaford scarecrows are once again this year a hit with visitors from points international, national and throughout Ontario – from Russia, the UK, the Netherlands, Yellowknife, British Columbia, Edmonton, Timmins, Sudbury, Russell, Bowanville, Toronto, and closer to home, from Orangeville, Shelburne, Dundalk, Barrie, and Wasaga Beach.
Scarecrows ambassadors who have been on Sykes Street and at Station Hill to greet visitors these past weekends are pleased to hear how delighted visitors are to wander among the book-loving scarecrows and to see children’s faces light up when they see their favourite story book characters, the likes of Winnie the Pooh, Fancy Nancy, Curious George, and Cat in the Hat.
Meanwhile, the Bognor scarecrows are drawing their share of praise for their scarecrow creations, like Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, and classic fairy tale characters.
“It’s so gratifying to hear the response to all of our hard work,” said Event Chair Donna Earl. “If our visitors are not ready to pack their bags and move to Meaford, they have at least vowed to return again this time next year.”
Behind the scenes, the parade and festival committees are finalizing plans for the annual apple pie contest, parade on Sykes Street, and family festival on Friday, October 4.
Freshly baked apple pies need to be dropped off for judging at the Church of Nazarene between 1 and 3 p.m. Two categories: young bakers (ages 8-11) and traditional. Contest is open to all residents of the Municipality of Meaford.
The parade starts at 6 p.m. sharp.
The family festival follows at Rotary Harbour Pavilion with Bayshore Broadcasting emcee Jon Zagrodnik and popular local performer Allan Johnson. Look for the sensational Owen Sound fire-throwing majorettes, Klash the Clown, children’s bouncers, bean bag toss, hockey shot, and Meaford Fire Department fire truck. Winners of the apple pie contest, scarecrow colouring contest, and the photo competition will be announced during the festival.
For more information, visit scarecrowinvasion.ca or contact Helen Solmes, Promotions Chair, at solmeshelen@gmail.com or 519-372-7514.
Photo: Children delight in mingling with larger-than-life storybook characters during the Municipality of Meaford’s Scarecrows’ Book Invasion.
