The sixth Annual Santa Ynez Valley Scarecrow Fest officially began on Monday, showcasing more than 150 scarecrows across the towns of Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez and Solvang.
The month-long event will run through October 31, 2018. During this time, the public is welcome to judge and vote for their favorite scarecrows in each community. While the towns will be hosting their own individual contests, the winners will come together to compete for the “2018 Harvest Cup: Best in the Valley” title and trophy, the winner of which will be announced at a ceremony in Solvang on November 14, 2018. Last year’s winning scarecrow resembled the twin girls from the classic horror film, “The Shining.” It was made by a Buellton business, Hampton Inn & Suites Buellton/Santa Ynez Valley.
Even after seeing the countless unique scarecrows, Santa Ynez Valley community members will still have many ways to enjoy this month and celebrate the fall season. There are multiple wine and/or food events happening, including Santa Barbara Vintners Celebration of Harvest weekend October 12-14, the Solvang Grape Stomp on October 13, the Solvang 3rd Wednesday Wine & Beer Walk on October 17 and Real Men Cook in Buellton on October 20.
Halloween festivities such as Solvang’s 25th Annual Halloween Haunted House and Street Fest on October 30-31, the Santa Ynez Halloween Street Faire on October 31 and, Los Olivos’ 39th Annual “Day in the Country” on October 20 will take place for those looking forward to celebrating the upcoming holiday.
The first Scarecrow Fest was created by the Solvang 3rd Wednesday committee in 2010 to promote participating businesses and organizations, along with the local Santa Ynez Valley community as a whole. The event has since become increasingly popular and has even inspired similar events across California, like the Big Bear Village Scarecrow Festival.
More information on this year’s Scarecrow Fest can be found here. Voters and visitors are encouraged to use the hashtag #syvscarecrows in their posts from the event.
