Tuesday, 3 November 2026, 21:56
The Winters Scarecrow Contest returns this fall, inviting residents and visitors to celebrate local craftsmanship and community spirit. The public voting period officially begins on Friday, October 30, providing an opportunity to view uniquely designed figures placed around the city.
Participants may pick up a paper ballot at any of the featured locations. Completed ballots must be returned to the designated drop box outside Steady Eddy’s Coffee Shop at 5 East Main Street. Voters are asked to select one favorite within each of four distinct categories: Traditional and Heritage, Most Innovative, Most Creative, and Community Favorite.
The thirteen scarecrow entries are strategically positioned across several downtown addresses. Participating sites include Lopez Diesel Performance and Repair, Buckhorn Steakhouse, ASB Winters Middle School, Steady Eddy’s Coffee Shop, the Winters Music Boosters, the Winters Parent Nursery School, SDC Level 1, the Three Sisters School House Teaching Garden near the library, and multiple private residential addresses along Anderson Avenue, Fenley Way, and Ramos Drive. Additional entries are displayed at Winters AYSO.
This contest reflects a longstanding tradition in Yolo County communities that utilize seasonal outdoor displays to drive foot traffic to local businesses and foster neighborhood engagement. Similar harvest festivals and autumn-themed events are common throughout California as towns transition into cooler weather.
The Winters Express organizes and publishes details regarding the annual competition. The event highlights the artistic contributions of local schools, civic groups, and business owners. Participants spend weeks constructing and decorating their displays before the public viewing period begins.
Community members are encouraged to tour the downtown area, appreciate the creative efforts on display, and submit their votes before the closing date. The winners will be recognized in the November 25 edition of the local newspaper, continuing a popular autumn tradition in Winters.
