Fall is on its way to Stone County, Mississippi, and you know what that means! Cooler days, leaves changing to those beautiful shades of orange and the return of one of this community’s favorite autumn traditions: the Scarecrow Convention! On display now until the end of October, as you drive around Stone County, you’re sure to notice a lot more hay-filled friends!
Each year, local businesses, churches, schools, families and more put their creativity on full display with scarecrows popping up all throughout Wiggins and across Stone County, Mississippi. From whimsical depictions of beloved characters to elaborate tableaus, every display adds a little more personality to the season that gives locals and visitors alike another reason to get out and explore.
Whether you’re ready to build a scarecrow of your own or just want to see what this year’s participants dream up, the 2026 Scarecrow Convention is a fall tradition you won’t want to miss!
A Stone County Tradition
The Scarecrow Convention began in 2010 thanks to the Pine Hill Ladies and an idea inspired by Pine Hill Chair Mike Cain after seeing scarecrow displays during a family trip to the Smoky Mountains.
What started as a creative way to celebrate the season has grown into an annual community tradition. Each fall, scarecrows transform familiar streets, storefronts and neighborhoods into a countywide showcase of imagination and hometown spirit.
Best of all, you don’t even have to enter the competition to join in the fun. Everyone is encouraged to create and show off a fall-themed scarecrow display for anyone to enjoy!
Build Your Own Scarecrow
Feeling inspired? Registration for the 2026 judged competition is open now and continues through midnight on October 12! Displays must be completed by the registration deadline and include at least one scarecrow to be eligible for judging.
While everyone is encouraged to participate by putting up a display, the judged competition is limited to the City of Wiggins. Need the perfect spot for your creation? Participants who need space within the city limits can request a location when registering.
Once the scarecrows are in place, it’s time to see which creations stand out from the crowd!
Cast Your Vote
Part of the fun of the Scarecrow Convention is letting anyone from lifelong residents to first-time visitors help choose their favorites. Online voting for the People’s Choice Awards begins October 13 and continues through October 20, with first, second and third-place honors up for grabs!
A three-judge panel will also select first, second and third-place Judges’ Awards on October 13, alongside special recognitions including the Patriotic Award and Super Hero Award for outstanding community service. Participating schools will have a separate school-only category with their own first, second and third-place winners.
Then, on October 29, the celebration heads to Blaylock Park! Following Merchant Trick-or-Treat, this year’s winners will be announced and recognized with plaques or ribbons and a feature in the Stone County Enterprise!
Make a Day of It
You don’t have to build a scarecrow to enjoy the convention! Round up the family, take a drive around Wiggins and see how many displays you can find. Pick your favorites, snap a few photos and turn your scarecrow hunt into a fall adventure of its own!
While you’re out exploring, make a day of it by stopping for a bite at a local restaurant, browsing Stone County shops or discovering another hidden gem along the way! And if you share your Scarecrow Convention adventures online, be sure to tag @ExploreStoneCounty so we can follow along!
Fall Fun Is Waiting in Stone County
There’s something special about seeing Stone County, Mississippi come alive for fall. The Scarecrow Convention celebrates the creativity, community spirit and local pride that make this place special, and every new display adds something different to the tradition!
So, mark your calendars, start dreaming up your 2026 scarecrow and get ready to explore! No matter if you’re coming from near or far, the Scarecrow Convention makes for a great reason to enjoy some fall days in Stone County, Mississippi!
#HiddenAdventuresAwait at Stone County’s 2026 Scarecrow Convention!