Idaho Botanical Garden hosts 19th Scarecrow Stroll with expanded display

The Idaho Botanical Garden is displaying nearly 30 handmade scarecrows as part of its 19th annual Scarecrow Stroll, a tradition that runs through Nov. 2. The collection features designs from local businesses, organizations, schools, and community members who spent weeks planning and building their entries.

Event coordinator Megan Jones noted that participation has nearly doubled compared to last year. Jones said the event began as a small community exhibit and has continued to grow over the years. A garden committee reviews submitted ideas and assigns specific display locations to participants.

Thrive Physical Therapy is participating for its sixth consecutive year. Employees collaborate to design and build a scarecrow as a team process. Gabby Baraja, a team member, explained that staff share initial concepts and vote on their favorite direction before construction begins. This year’s entry, titled “Exorcist Enthusiast,” depicts Regan from the film “The Exorcist” performing physical therapy exercises. The team constructed the figure using a reusable PVC frame, old clothing, and thrift store supplies. Baraja said the group spent about two weeks on the project, focusing on durability for outdoor conditions.

Baraja stated that the collaborative process allows staff to interact creatively outside of their daily professional routines. “We couldn’t do it without the community,” Jones added regarding the expanded scale of this year’s event.

Melissa Bovard and her mother participated in the Stroll for the first time. The pair created “Miss Sunny Scarecrow,” a sunflower-themed figure decorated with artificial flowers and fall motifs. Bovard said they initially planned a design with petals surrounding the face but adjusted the structure to better withstand weather. They used stuffing from old pillows, protected the interior with trash bags and duct tape, and sewed a long-sleeved shirt and leggings together to form the body.

Bovard described the experience as a rewarding opportunity to spend time with her mother. “It’s just nice to see other people enjoying what we created,” Bovard said. She noted that the project provided a shared creative activity and a positive memory for both participants.

Several of the new displays are located in the garden’s recent expansion area. The Scarecrow Stroll remains open to the public through Nov. 2, showcasing the work of local residents who contributed to the annual exhibit.