Scarecrow Fest winners reported

Approximately 5,000 individuals attended the 14th annual Scarecrow Fest held Sept. 16 in the downtown area of Phelps. All proceeds from the event will stay within the Phelps community.

“We had a hard working team along,” said Mary Ann Holcomb, chairperson for the event. “There was a fantastic crowd and picture-perfect weather.”

There were a total of 58 craft and food vendors, and children’s activities included a trout pond. Pumpkin chuckin’ sponsored by the snowmobile club was a hit for both adults and youngsters. The day was filled out with a quilt and fine arts show, scarecrow contest, music by DJ Marc Ralston and Sanity and Son.

There were also raffles, a wine tasting contest, and the snag-a-bag boutique during the festivities.    

“We couldn’t have funded the event without the help of over 75 sponsors,” added Holcomb. “The women’s club is very grateful and plans to continue the tradition.”

Next year’s Scarecrow Fest event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024.

This year’s contest winners include homemade scarecrow contest winner Norm Mesun of Phelps.

Wine tasting contest winners included first place Dale Decent, Omerta Red; second place Jake Klabon, rhubarb raspberry; and most unique, Norm Buckmaster, carrot wine. All wine winners donated their winnings back to the women’s club. 

Winners of the first annual Spooktacular Vehicle Event were: Best of show/people’s choice, 1969 Roadrunner, Victor Matuszewski of Laona. He also received best paint job and best interior awards for the Roadrunner.

Most unique award went to the 1958 Ford Fairlane owned by Tom Dougherty of Eagle River. Best spooktacular decoration was awarded to the 1930 Model A truck owned by Darrell Slizewski.

There were a total of 34 entrants that included moped, motorcycles, boats, cars and trucks. An estimated 500 people attended the event.

“The exhibitors were pleased with the show and turnout, for being the first year, and are excited to come back for next year’s event,” said Dick Ryan, event chairman.