KENNEBUNKPORT —
Have you ever wondered where scarecrows go at the end of the growing season? Legend says that they hold a gathering of seven days in October to discuss the next growing season before being blown away by November’s chilly winds. Each fall, Scarecrows from cornfields and gardens all over Maine begin to arrive in Kennebunkport. They stay for seven days and can be found in every nook and cranny of this picturesque little town.
On the first day of the festival, Monday, October 11, from 1-5pm, the Nonantum Resort will host The Scarecrow Craft Fair which will feature over 30 crafter and artisans. There is no charge for artisans to use a table, but all must display a scarecrow. There will also be a Scarecrow wedding with 50 different scarecrow guests in attendance.
“We are delighted to welcome back The Scarecrow Craft Fair and Wedding to the Nonantum,” said Tina Hewett-Gordon, General Manager of The Nonantum. “This wonderful fall tradition is enjoyable by every member of the family.”
This event will take place on the river’s edge at The Nonantum Resort, 95 Ocean Avenue in Kennebunkport. It will be held rain or shine. Hot apple cider, pumpkin bread and apple crisp will be served. There will be a $5 suggested donation, with all proceeds benefiting the Shiloh Pepin Playground Fund.
From Tuesday, October 12 to Friday, October 15, families can vote for their favorite scarecrow. The scarecrows will be displayed all around Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. Entries can be placed in the orange pumpkin located in front of Colonial Pharmacy. Prizes will be awarded to winning scarecrows.
On Saturday, October 16, from 1-3pm, The Gathering of the Scarecrows Parade will take place. Everyone is encouraged to dress as a scarecrow or to carry one and march in the parade. The parade will begin at the Monument in Dock Square and will travel to the Green where activities for all ages will take place.
Finally, on Sunday, October 17, the Wicked 5K Road Race will occur. Participants can walk, jog or run through the streets of Kennebunkport. The race will start at The Nonantum and end at Federal Jack’s Brew Pub, where lite fare will be served and fun prizes will be awarded in various categories. In addition to the 5K race, there will also be a 1-mile fun run.
To register, log on to www.RaceIt.com (keyword: Wicked 5K). The registration fee is $20 for the 5K and $5 per person for the 1-mile fun run. Goody bags will be given to the first 200 registered participants. Costumes are encouraged, especially on kids.
The Wicked 5K is sponsored by The Nonantum Resort, with support from Atlantic Pest Solutions, Federal Jack’s Brew Pub, HB Provisions and Quest Fitness. The race benefits Operation Shower, the nonprofit organization that throws baby showers for expecting military families during deployment or high stress situations. Race participants may bring a new unwrapped baby item, which will be donated to the expecting families serving aboard the USS George Bush. For more information about the Wicked 5K, call (207) 229-3866 or email run@lilybrooke.com.
For more information about the Gathering of the Scarecrows, contact the Nonantum Resort at 967-4050.
Photo caption: The annual Scarecrow wedding will be attended by 50 different scarecrow guests! (Courtesy photo)
