'Wonderful, Whimsical Annual Tradition:' Celebrating 15 Years of Scarecrows on the Green

From the Branford Garden Club:

BRANFORD, CT — For 15 years, the Branford Garden Club has welcomed autumn by transforming the Branford Green into a colorful celebration of imagination, community spirit, and seasonal charm. Each fall, whimsical, spooky, clever, and creative scarecrows bring smiles to residents and visitors of all ages while highlighting the people, organizations, and businesses that make Branford such a vibrant community.

This year’s event comes at an especially exciting time as downtown Branford continues its revitalization. To complement the work taking place on the Green and on Main Street, the 2026 Scarecrows on the Green display will extend along Montowese Street beside the Green and down to Meadow Street, as well as from the former Board of Education Building to Center Cemetery.

"The wonderful, whimsical annual tradition of Branford Garden Club’s Scarecrows on the Green showcases the creativity of many local businesses and organizations," said Branford Garden Club president Kristen Armstrong. “And it contributes to a fun and slightly spooky atmosphere for the entire community during our autumn celebrations."

The event runs from Friday, October 16, through Tuesday, November 3, 2026. It is a wonderful opportunity for local businesses to advertise their services, connect with the community, and show off their creativity. The Branford Garden Club invites businesses, community groups, schools, classrooms, nonprofit organizations, individuals, and families to participate in this beloved annual fundraiser. Donations are gratefully appreciated, though not required, and registration forms are available online at branfordgardenclub.org.

Whether your scarecrow is funny, frightful, traditional, or completely unexpected, your involvement will help make this milestone year one to remember.

The 15th anniversary celebration will also feature several fresh additions for 2026. Join us for a Stroll Along Montowese on Saturday, October 24, from 3 to 5 p.m., featuring children’s activities, prizes, and seasonal fun. The rain date is Sunday, October 25. Visitors can also participate in a new Scarecrow Passport Contest using QR codes located throughout the display, which automatically enters them in a drawing to win a gift card basket for Branford Downtown Merchants valued at $150.

Remember to cast your vote for “The People’s Choice Award” for your favorite Scarecrow.

Also, check out the scarecrows to be created by Trish Doyle displayed in the planters at the James Blackstone Library, BACA, and Branford Town Hall.

While visiting Branford, please support our local shops, businesses, and restaurants. They are the lifeblood of our community, and Scarecrows on the Green is the perfect reason to spend an autumn day discovering all that downtown Branford has to offer.

About the Branford Garden Club

Founded in 1928, the Branford Garden Club is dedicated to promoting gardening conservation, civic beautification, and environmental education. Through scholarships, educational programs, community projects, and events such as Scarecrows on the Green, the Club continues its mission of enhancing the beauty and quality of life throughout Branford.