Burlington Review

Seventeen scarecrows are currently on display at Historic Smithville Park, and Burlington County residents and visitors have the opportunity to vote for their favorite. The voting period for the annual Burlington County Scarecrow Contest has commenced and will continue until November 2, with winners being announced at 6 PM during the Autumn Lands festival at Smithville Park.

The scarecrows, displayed along Park and Maple avenues, include creative interpretations of characters such as Dorothy from "The Wizard of Oz," Cruella de Vil, Gru and his Minions, as well as depictions of scarecrow softball players, scouts, a firefighter, and an Eagles football fan. Votes can be cast by visiting https://burlingtoncountynj.formstack.com/forms/scarecrow_contest_voting_2024. Prizes will be awarded to the top three vote recipients.

Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson commented on the event: “The Scarecrow Contest is one of our Burlington County’s longstanding fall traditions and this year’s entries once again reflect the incredible artistic talent and creativity of Burlington County’s residents, groups and businesses.”

Visitors to Smithville Park can vote using their smartphones through the County’s free Wi-Fi service by selecting "Burlco" in their network list. QR codes placed on signs next to each scarecrow also provide direct access to the voting portal. Commissioner Director Hopson highlighted this feature: “Our County expanded free public Wi-Fi to Smithville and other County parks last year so that visitors can stay connected and access important online applications and services.”

Additionally, visitors are encouraged to download the Burlington County Parks System's free mobile app available on Apple and Google Play stores. This app offers trail maps, park information, facility rentals, and registration for various activities.

Smithville Park is located at 803 Smithville Road in Eastampton. It includes remnants of a Victorian-era industrial town known for manufacturing woodworking machines and the American Star Bicycle. The county purchased it in 1975, transforming it into its first county park.

Commissioner Allison Eckel praised the park system: “Burlington County has one of the best parks systems in the region and Smithville is one of its biggest and most popular assets.” She noted that autumn is an ideal time to visit due to its historical significance combined with natural beauty.