Meaford Scarecrow Invasion has got to be the cutest town festival in Ontario.  We came across it on our way back from our trip to the Bruce Peninsula; not really realizing at first what is going on.  First, we noticed the strange creatures dangling from street lamps around the harbour.  Interesting decorations, we thought.

These creatures seemed to be everywhere.  There has to be more to this.

We then we drove past a parkette and noticed that something strange was going on.  There were many people milling about and there were more of the creatures everywhere.

This required a closer look so turned onto a side street, parked the van, and went over to investigate.

Hmm… what’s going on?

A nice gentleman walked over enthusiastically, eager to tell us all about the Meaford annual Scarecrow Invasion where town folks create a new themed scarecrow invasion each year from early September to Thanksgiving Weekend in October.  They’ve been doing this since 1996.

It’s not just about the scarecrows; there is a parade, a family fun festival, an apple pie competition, and the annual Apple Festival.  All taking place on the week before Thanksgiving.

We missed the parade and other festivities, but the scarecrows were there in full force.

This year’s theme which was all about books

We walked around, admiring the creations and we leave you with a small selection of the 300 scarecrows.

Robert Munsch’s Love You Forever

Anne of Green Gables

Gulliver

Harlequin Romance

Winnie The Pooh

The adventures of Huckleberry Finn

To Kill a Mockingbird 

Look at the detail on the faces.  A local artist paints all of the scarecrow faces on pillow cases.

Alice’s Adventure in Wonderland

Curious George

If you happen to be wondering through Ontario in the fall, take a break from leaf peeping and go check it out.  I wonder what next year’s theme will be.

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