Mike Cunningham’s Annual Scarecrow Contest – Downtown Sun Prairie

Help us decorate Downtown Sun Prairie for fall! Create a scarecrow to be displayed October 4–31.

Design your scarecrow as a fairytale character, storybook figure, animal, fantasy creation—or anything you can dream up! Fun or frightening, bright colors and unique materials are encouraged.

View Scarecrows in person or on the Downtown Sun Prairie Facebook page.

Entry Form – Must be completed and submitted with your scarecrow on Saturday, October 4 between 8 am – 12 pm at the Farmers Market.

Key Dates

• Fame Pickup: Throughout September
  • Daily at Beans n Cream and Bank of Sun Prairie (downtown locations during regular business hours)
  • Saturday at the Farmers Market info tent
• Entry Drop-Off: Saturday, October 4, 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. at the Downtown Sun Prairie Farmers’ Market.
• Display Dates: October 4–31.

Construction Guidelines

• Must withstand Wisconsin’s October weather (sun, wind, rain).
• All decorations must be securely attached.
• Shoes must be sewn on (if used).
• No straw (fire hazard), lights, lanterns, or perishable items.
• Must be able to move in one piece, with no loose props.
• Size: Minimum height 4’, maximum height 10’; maximum width 4’.

Judging

• Entries are judged at 12 pm on October 4th on originality, quality, and design.
• Winners will be announced on the Downtown Sun Prairie Facebook page by Monday, October 6th.
• Crowd favorite is determined by voting on Facebook throughout October. Announced November 3rd.

Rules & Notes

• Family-friendly entries only; inappropriate entries may be disqualified.
• The City of Sun Prairie and the Business Improvement District are not responsible for the safety of scarecrows on display.
• If you would like your scarecrow returned to you, they will be available in Cannery Square for you to claim from Monday, November 3 through Thursday November 6, 2026. Remaining scarecrows will be disposed on Friday, November 7th.