As the air turns crisp and the leaves paint the town in golden hues, Charlottetown will once again be transformed into a wonderland of whimsy with the return of the Scarecrow Festival. Kicking off in October, this month-long celebration promises to be the largest scarecrow festival in all of Atlantic Canada, with over 800+ scarecrows popping up on street corners, parks, and every picturesque spot in the city.
Whether you’re a fan of the festive or the spooky, this event has something for everyone. Stroll the streets of Charlottetown on a self-guided scarecrow tour, where creativity reigns, and every scarecrow has its own story. These delightful characters bring a quirky charm to the already stunning fall scenery, making it the perfect backdrop for photos, memories, and a sense of community. Expect everything from traditional scarecrows to imaginative designs that push the boundaries of creativity!
But the scarecrows are just the beginning! Throughout October, festivalgoers can enjoy a range of haunted and family-friendly events. One must-see highlight is the Ghost Tours with the Heritage Players, where a mysterious guide will lead you on a spooky stroll through Charlottetown’s historic downtown, sharing eerie tales of its haunted past. My son and I did this tour last year and it was excellent. The guide was truly a treasure and we learned so much while being entertained. I highly recommend that you join them. These tours run on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 6:30 pm, offering a mix of history and spine-tingling storytelling. A family-friendly version is also available upon request, so even the little ones can join in on the fun.
For those drawn to the mystical, don’t miss out on the Mystic Nights in Rochford Square, where tarot readings under an open-air tent create an enchanting atmosphere on select Friday evenings. And if you’re feeling brave, step back in time with the Victorian-Era Séance Reenactment at Beaconsfield Historic House. Madame Evangeline Gray will transport you to the 19th century with her séance, recreating the ghostly trickery that captivated audiences of the past.
And no festival would be complete without food! Street Feast on October 11th and 12th will turn Kent Street into a lively block party filled with carnival-inspired street food, craft beer, and live music. Whether you’re sipping a local brew or indulging in quirky culinary creations, this two-day event will be a feast for the senses.
So, dust off your favorite fall scarf, embrace the crisp autumn air, and gather your friends and family for a month of magic, mystery, and festive fun. Charlottetown’s Scarecrow Festival is one you won’t want to miss—come for the scarecrows, stay for the memories!