The Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation invites the Southwest Florida community to participate in its 12th annual “Scarecrows in the Park” competition.

Entries will be exhibited Oct. 15-31 throughout the Children’s Garden at Lakes Regional Park, and will be part of the Lakes Park Fall Festival.

This year’s competition has been re-imagined, making it easier on the participants and incorporating CDC guidelines for social distancing.

All entries will consist of a single scarecrow figure attached securely to a pole or post, dressed as a favorite book character. Expect to see Dr. Seuss characters, Harry Potter, Frankenstein, fairy tale characters ‒ the possibilities are endless ‒ along the paths in the Children’s Garden.

Businesses, organizations, school and youth groups, and individuals are encouraged to participate.

The deadline for registration and naming your scarecrow is Sept. 30. Entries must be brought to the park fully assembled.

A team of celebrity judges will select the winners opening night from 5-6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15, and People’s Choice voting will continue throughout the festival. Proceeds will benefit park-enhancing projects and programs funded and managed by the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation. 

“Scarecrows in the Park has been a highlight of the fall season for the past 11 years,” said Marsha Asp, a Foundation Director and event chairperson. “We are all eager to celebrate the season outdoors in a safe, open environment and the 2021 Fall Festival will include a pumpkin patch, bounce houses, hayrides, the very popular Halloween Express train and concessions.”

Attendance in past years has exceeded 50,000 and this year is expected to be just as popular.

Registration is open now and full details and registration forms are at www.LakesPark.org. Call 239-533-7578 or email Info@LakesPark.org with questions.