It’s October, one of Hanley Farm’s “most favorite” months, other than November when we celebrate the onset of the holidays with Santa’s visit and “Holiday Wreath Making.” And there’s December, when we offer after-holiday Hanley Farmhouse tours, that is! And why are we so enthused with October? Because we can conjure up “ghosties” and goblins that can only be called upon in October!

The fun begins October 7 and 8, from 10:00am-3:00pm with the farm’s relatively benign Scarecrow Festival. This is the 7th year Southern Oregon families will gather at Hanley Farm to create original scarecrows—scarecrows that will protect their fields and private gardens from marauding crows, and occasionally, a witch or two!

Scarecrow-making kits include everything one can think of to create a scarecrow, and are available for only $15 per kit. Or, if you are a Southern Oregon Historical Society member, you pay $10 per kit! Admission is free for the Scarecrow Festival, and the 2-day event includes hayrides, apple bobbing, a scarecrow contest, and children’s heritage games—FUN for the entire family.

The Hanley Farmhouse will also be open for tours—only $5 for adults; $3 for SOHS members and children. Festival participants are invited to leave their scarecrow creations at the farm as part of the People’s Choice Scarecrow Contest. Your family’s scarecrow just may win the People’s Choice Award! (All entries are taken home by their “creators” after the contest.)

October festivities at the farm have just begun! The evenings of October 7, 8 and October 15—be prepared for “a haunting adventure by the light of the moon.” The Renaissance Academy of Arts & Science’s talented students have partnered with SOHS to present, “Max and the Monster.” Take a guided tour by lantern through the fields of the farm and experience the story of little “Max” and the “Snark,” a great furry beast with “bad breath and a snout like a bird!” This family-friendly event is $8 for adults or $5 for children and SOHS members. Admission includes apple bobbing, movies, music, and FUN in the pavilion. Plus, there will be popcorn, cider and other refreshments available for purchase.

We’ll see you at the farm—if you dare!