Burlington Review

One of Burlington County’s favorite seasonal traditions is returning once more to Historic Smithville Park.

Registration for the annual Burlington County Scarecrow Contest is now open, and the Burlington County Commissioners and Burlington County Parks System are inviting individual artists, families, clubs, groups, and service organizations to sign up and enter the popular fall competition to create Burlington County’s best scarecrow.

The scarecrows will be on display beginning on Oct. 7, and park visitors will be able to vote online for their favorite. Winners will be announced during the Burlington County Parks System’s Autumn Lands festival in Smithville Park on Nov. 2 at 6 p.m.

“The scarecrow contest is one of our longstanding Burlington County Parks events. It brings together artists, families, and organizations from across the county and provides them a showcase for their creativity and artistic talents,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “It’s a fun autumn tradition that brings more people to beautiful Smithville Park. It’s also a great way to spotlight your organization, business or group.”

The registration deadline for the contest is Sept. 27 and can be done online at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/2107/Scarecrow-Contest.

Completed scarecrows must be installed along Park Avenue in Smithville Park between Sept. 28 and Oct. 5. Voting will begin on Oct. 7 and continue until 4 p.m. on Nov. 2.

The top vote recipient will receive the First Prize of $250. The Second Prize is $125, and the Third Prize is $75.

The contest is open to all ages. Participants can be individuals, families, clubs, groups of friends, youth groups, service organizations or businesses.

Scarecrows should be family-friendly and tasteful. Humorous, whimsical and spooky scarecrows are welcome; however political statements are not permitted. The Burlington County Parks System staff reserves the right to disqualify any entries deemed not appropriate or that violate contest rules.

Typical scarecrows begin with a 2 x 4 piece of lumber for the body and a dowel rod or broomstick for arms. They should not exceed seven feet in height with props extending no more than three feet on either side.

Completed scarecrows will be mounted on light standards in the park and should be made to withstand sun, wind, and rain conditions while displaying a sign identifying the name of the entry including name of group or business if applicable.

For additional rules visit the Burlington County Parks page.

Smithville Park is located at 803 Smithville Road in Eastampton which includes remains of Smithville village—a once thriving Victorian-era industrial town known for manufacturing woodworking machines as well as American Star Bicycles.

Burlington County purchased this village back in 1975 transforming it into its first county park.

“Burlington County’s Park System is second to none," said Burlington County Commissioner Allison Eckel who serves as liaison within Department Resource Conservation & Parks adding "Smithville remains one biggest most popular assets attracting residents regionally beyond raving unique blend history natural beauty."

Autumn provides an excellent opportunity visiting parks while experiencing historical artful aspects showcased through festive displays like these creative community-made scarecrows.