Lumsden, Saskatchewan – A rural Saskatchewan town is drawing national attention with it’s whimsical and sharply satirical annual festival featuring life-sized scarecrows enacting scenes of everyday life-and poking fun at current events. The Lumsden & District Heritage Society’s Scarecrow Festival,now in full swing,transforms the village into an open-air gallery of agricultural artistry and social commentary.
The festival, a decades-long tradition, has evolved from a simple harvest display into a refined showcase of creativity, attracting visitors from across the province and beyond. This year’s installations range from scarecrows operating a tractor constructed from hay bales to an “Épouvantail” (French for scarecrow) impersonating a police officer with a mock radar gun, offering a lighthearted critique of authority. Beyond the satire, the festival serves as a vital fundraiser for local heritage preservation and provides educational opportunities for students involved in the creation process.
Local artist Kaitlyn Schropp, whose photographs document the festival, notes the event’s unique blend of entertainment and engagement.”Its not just about building scarecrows; it’s about storytelling, community collaboration, and a little bit of playful rebellion,” she said.
The festival’s educational component sees students from local schools participating in the design and construction of scarecrows, learning about history, art, and community involvement. The Lumsden & District Heritage Society uses proceeds from the festival to maintain local past buildings and support heritage initiatives. The Scarecrow Festival runs through[Date-[Date-data not provided in source], offering a unique autumn experience and a testament to the enduring spirit of rural Saskatchewan.
