MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) - Main Street Murfreesboro is inviting artists, families, businesses, churches, and civic groups from across Rutherford County to enter the annual "Scarecrows Downtown" contest.

Participants must build a handmade, weather-proof scarecrow standing between four and six feet tall. Regulations require builders to use whole, uncarved produce if applicable, secure all materials, and avoid commercial costumes or rubber masks. Entries must remain family-friendly and avoid frightening, political, or controversial themes.

Registration is completely free, but entries must be submitted by Friday, September 18th. Main Street Murfreesboro will assign specific display locations around the historic square. Setup occurs between Thursday, October 1st and Sunday, October 4th. All entries must be taken down between Sunday, November 1st and Wednesday, November 4th.

Voters can scan QR codes on-site for a chance to win a $25 downtown gift card. Judges will award $100 for 1st Place, $50 for 2nd Place, and a $25 gift card for 3rd Place, while the People’s Choice Award winner will receive $100. Winners will be announced on Friday, October 30th via email and social media.

Community members can sign up online through the Main Street Murfreesboro "Scarecrows Downtown" Application Form 2026 or through the official Scarecrows Downtown Participant Link. For more details, contact Main Street Murfreesboro Executive Director Sarah Callender at 615-895-1887, email sarah@downtownmurfreesboro.com, or visit www.mainstreetmurfreesboro.org.