There's a particular kind of magic that settles over Downtown Woodstock every October. Storefronts sprout straw-stuffed characters in top hats and flannel. Kids race down Main Street pointing out their favorites. And for one month, the whole district turns into an open-air gallery of local creativity all thanks to the Scarecrow Invasion.
Registration for the 2026 Scarecrow Invasion opens Tuesday, September 1st, at 10 a.m. at the Woodstock Visitors Center. If past years are any indication, locals won't be waiting until 10 to show up. It's become a tradition of its own: eager business owners and neighbors lining up along Main Street before the doors even open, all hoping to claim a spot for their display. Most years, every available space is gone by the close of business that same day.
That kind of enthusiasm is exactly what makes the Scarecrow Invasion feel less like a contest and more like a community celebration. Local businesses, nonprofits, and individuals are all invited to design and install their own scarecrow display, and registration stays open through September as long as spots remain, though the smart money says don't wait. Businesses can register for $100, while nonprofits and individuals can join in for $50.
Once October arrives, the displays go up and Downtown Woodstock transforms. Visitors are invited to stroll Main Street, take in the creativity, and cast a vote for their favorite. Votes are $1 each, and are cast at the Visitors Center or directly with participating businesses. At month's end, the top displays don't just earn bragging rights; winners take home a one-of-a-kind commemorative trophy.
But the fun serves a bigger purpose. Every dollar raised through registration and voting benefits INSeason, the design committee behind IN WDSTK, which works year-round to keep Downtown Woodstock beautiful by funding everything from seasonal landscaping to the holiday décor that makes this town feel like home come December.
Displays go up between September 28th and October 2nd and stay through the month, and come down by November 3rd giving all of October for enjoyment and photo opportunities!
To learn more, register, or find a map of this year's scarecrow locations: