The Village of Newark is adding a festive new tradition this year: the first annual Scarecrow Decorating Contest. Businesses, organizations, and community members are invited to put their creativity on display by designing seasonal-themed scarecrows, which will brighten downtown beginning in early October as part of Fall for Newark — a celebration of community pride and autumn traditions.

Mayor Jonathan Taylor shared:
“Last year’s Home for the Holidays celebration showed how much pride our community feels when we come together. It was such a success that our committee wanted to keep building on that momentum. The Scarecrow Decorating Contest is another way to bring people downtown and highlight the spirit that makes Newark special.”

The idea for the contest was brought forward by committee member Kaitlyn Ruffalo of First Choice Electric, whose fresh perspective inspired the project. Mayor Taylor emphasized the importance of that kind of involvement:
“One of the best things about Newark is how new voices keep our traditions strong. We thrive when we lift up the organizations and groups that step forward to build events. Their efforts show the true strength of our community and remind us how important it is to support local businesses and organizations as they sponsor and organize so many of the gatherings that bring us together.”

Contest Details

• Who can enter: Local businesses, civic organizations, schools, and residents.
• How to register: Forms are available at Katie Pullen: Allstate Insurance, 119 E Union St, Newark or online at https://bit.ly/ScarecrowForm
• Rules: Available online and at Katie Pullen: Allstate Insurance.
• Set-up dates: October 6th-October 12th and displayed until November 2nd.
• Prizes: Categories include Most Creative, Funniest, and Best Business Display.

Fall for Newark

The Scarecrow Decorating Contest is part of a broader effort to celebrate Newark’s people, businesses, and traditions during the fall season. Just as Home for the Holidays has become a signature winter event, Fall for Newark will showcase both new and beloved traditions that highlight community pride.

There are many events planned by organizations throughout the village this season, making it easy for anyone to truly Fall for Newark. This year’s lineup includes:

• Autumn on the Erie – October 3rd
• Maroon & Gray Day – October 10th, celebrating Newark’s Homecoming Weekend
• Wayne County Council for the Arts – Third Annual Spooktacular Art Show – October 17–18 (main events), with additional viewing days available. Follow the Wayne County Council for the Arts on Facebook for details.
• Residential Halloween Display Contest – October 22 – 29. Residential house decorating. Register by calling 315-331-4770, ext. 106.
• Alex Eligh Community Center Family Halloween Party – October 30th
• Alex Eligh Community Center Student Halloween Lock-In – October 31st
• Central Park Trunk or Treat – October 31st, hosted by the Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and the Newark Chamber of Commerce

Visitors are encouraged to stroll downtown, enjoy the scarecrows, and share photos on social media with #FallForNewark.

Stay Connected

Follow Home for the Holidays and the Village of Newark on social media for updates on fall and holiday traditions — old favorites and new events still to come.

Get Involved

Register your scarecrow today and be part of Newark’s newest fall tradition.

For more information, call the Village Office at (315) 331-4770 or visit https://www.villageofnewarkny.gov/

Short-Form Press Release (~250 words)

Newark Kicks Off Fall with First Annual Scarecrow Decorating Contest

Newark, NY — [Insert Date] — The Village of Newark is launching a new tradition this October with its first annual Scarecrow Decorating Contest. Local businesses, organizations, schools, and residents are invited to create seasonal-themed scarecrows that will be displayed throughout downtown as part of Fall for Newark — a series of community events celebrating autumn.

Mayor Jonathan Taylor said:
“Last year’s Home for the Holidays celebration showed how much pride our community feels when we come together. The Scarecrow Decorating Contest is another way to bring people downtown and highlight the spirit that makes Newark special.”

The contest was proposed by committee member Kaitlyn Ruffalo of First Choice Electric. Mayor Taylor added:
“We thrive when we lift up the organizations and groups that step forward to build events. Their efforts show the true strength of our community and remind us how important it is to support local businesses and organizations as they sponsor and organize so many of the gatherings that bring us together.”

Contest Details

• Registration forms: Available at Katie Pullen: Allstate Insurance, 119 E Union St, Newark or online at https://bit.ly/ScarecrowForm
• Set-up dates: October 6th-October 12th
• Prizes: Categories include Most Creative, Funniest, and Best Business Display

Other Fall for Newark Events

• Autumn on the Erie – October 3
• Maroon & Gray Day – October 10
• Third Annual Spooktacular Art Show (Wayne County Council for the Arts) – October 17–18
• Residential Halloween Display Contest – October 22-29
• AECC Family Halloween Party – October 30
• AECC Student Halloween Lock-In – October 31
• Central Park Trunk or Treat – October 31

For details, call the Village Office at (315) 331-4770 or visit https://www.villageofnewarkny.gov/. Share your photos with #FallForNewark.