Nearly 100 scarecrows will be on display across Chillerton and Gatcombe from today (Saturday) as the popular Scarecrow Festival returns.
The week-long event will run until Sunday 31st May, with organisers promising plenty of colourful displays, live music and family-friendly activities throughout the villages.
The festival is being organised by the Chillerton and Gatcombe Community Association alongside parish residents.
The event will officially launch at 11:00 on Saturday 23rd May with appearances from the Isle of Wight High Sheriff and the Men of Wight Morris Dancers.
Visitors will be able to pick up a scarecrow location map from The Gallybagger Inn and the Village Hall, helping them track down the many creations spread across the area.
A public vote and judges’ vote will also take place to decide the favourite scarecrow.
Live music is planned from 12:00-16:00 on Saturday 23rd May, Sunday 24th May and Saturday 30th May, with live bands performing on both Saturday evenings between 19:00-21:00.
Aunt Sally’s Tea-Room at the Village Hall will be open daily from 10:30-16:00 serving teas, coffees, cold drinks and homemade cakes.
Organisers say there will be “lots to choose from” as residents once again transform the villages with creative scarecrow displays.
More information is available at www.wightbusywight.org.uk.
Are you taking part in the 2026 Scarecrow Festival? If so, please send pictures of your gallybagger to [email protected]
I love the one at Rookley.
I have just come up with a good idea to tackle speeding
on the island.
Place such scarecrows islandwide and add a speed
camera to each one.
What a cash Cow that would be.