Football games… carving pumpkins… hayrides… the “Scarecrow Showdown!” The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is introducing this brand-new tradition to the Autumn season.

The Scarecrow Showdown is a temporary art installation and competition, from October 1 to October 31, showcasing handcrafted scarecrows created by the Northwest Arkansas community.

Visit the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks during the month of October to see 50+ scarecrows created by individuals, families, artists, schools, organizations, businesses, and more! Guests can vote on their favorite scarecrow in each category: Amateur, Professional, or Business. An additional prize will be awarded to the “Most Creative Scarecrow!”

Guests do not have to pre-register to see the creations of the Scarecrow Showdown. The experience is included in the price of daily admission, which can be purchased in person at the door! Garden members always enjoy free admission. Check bgozarks.org for daily hours of operation.

To enjoy half-off admission & fall drinks, register for weekly “Sip & Strolls” on Tuesday nights from 5 to 7 pm in October (excluding October 10 for the Autumn Harvest). Guests can see the Scarecrow Showdown for 50% off regular daily admission prices and purchase fall-themed alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages. Most “Sip & Strolls” will have themes, including our “kick-off night” to welcome participants, an “awards night” to congratulate the competition winners, and a “Halloween night” to close out the event in your Halloween costumes! Visit bgozarks.org/events to learn more and to register.