Since 1994, the Scarecrow Festival has brought the community together to celebrate creativity, fall fun, and local pride. From quirky scarecrow displays to delicious food, live music, and family games, there’s something for everyone.

From live music and magic shows to family-friendly fun-there’s something for everyone happening all weekend long. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

The Entertainment Tent is your go-to spot for great tunes, exciting performances, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the Scarecrow Festival weekend. Grab a seat, enjoy the show, and soak in the small-town charm that makes Wanatah shine!

Schedule of Events:

12:00 pm - 4:30 pm: Hot Wheels Race of Champions
Join us Saturday morning for the fan-favorite Hot Wheels Race! Kids bring their favorite car and race down the track for fun, prizes, and bragging rights. It’s fast-paced action the whole family will love!

5:00 pm - 6:30 pm: Cutest Baby Contest
Don’t miss one of our most adorable events of the weekend! Join us Sunday afternoon as our tiniest festivalgoers take the stage in the Cutest Baby Contest. With multiple age categories and big smiles all around, it’s sure to melt your heart!

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm: Mountain Laurel
Join us at the Entertainment Tent on Saturday evening starting at 7:00 pm for a soul‑stirring performance by Mountain Laurel, a talented bluegrass and gospel group known for their warm vocals and skilled string harmonies. Based in Indiana, they bring a down‑home feel perfect for the Scarecrow Festival crowd

8:30 pm: Merchant Raffle
Stick around each night for our Merchant Raffle, where you can win free gifts from local businesses! No tickets, no sign-ups - just be present at the Entertainment Tent for your chance to win. Prizes change nightly, so don’t miss out!

Cutest Baby Contest
Join us for one of the most adorable events of the weekend-the Cutest Baby Contest at the Scarecrow Festival!

4:15 pm - 4:45 pm: Sign-In (Must be pre-registered)
5:00 pm: Contest Begins

Scarecrow Festival Parade
Kick off the weekend with a hometown favorite!
The Scarecrow Festival Parade is a cherished tradition that brings our community together in celebration. From marching bands and classic cars to local businesses, school groups, and - of course - plenty of scarecrows, the parade is packed with fun for all ages!

Parade Lineup: 10:30 am Start
Parade Start: 11:00 am

Route:
The parade begins at the american Legion Post 403 and travels down Cross St to Main St, ending back at the legion. Come early to grab a good spot!

Scarecrow Stampede 5K Run/3K Walk
Lace up your shoes and join us for a festive morning of fun, fitness, and fall spirit!

Whether you’re a competitive runner or just in it for the fresh air and community vibes, the Scarecrow Stampede is the perfect way to start your Saturday at the Scarecrow Festival. Good times are encouraged - and prizes are up for grabs!

Race begins at 8:00 am 
Packet pickup begins at 6:30 am

Start and Finish Location
Tri-Township Schools - 309 School Drive, Wanatah, IN 46390