Annual Halloween promotion grows, brings out creative side of city

First Street, Benicia City Hall and places beyond soon will be inhospitable places for cawing black birds thanks to Benicia Main Street’s seventh annual Scarecrow Contest.

The nonprofit is close to its goal of having 100 companies dress up wooden frame bases and set them up in front of their buildings.

“Ninety have already signed up!” Nancy Martinez, executive director, said last week.

Visitors to Benicia Public Library soon will see a scarecrow out front, as well. Even City Hall and other municipal buildings have gotten into the act, Martinez said. There, the offices of the city attorney, city manager and Finance Department have joined the contest, as has Parks and Community Services at Benicia Community Center, she said.

The scarecrows are being decorated now, and will go on display Oct. 3, Martinez said. The scarecrows can be viewed through Halloween, Oct. 31.

Members of the public will vote for their favorite scarecrow through Oct. 20. Ballots will be available at the Benicia Certified Farmers Market, each Thursday afternoon at the foot of First Street; Benicia Main Street, 90 First St., and at participating businesses.

Those interested in decorating and displaying a scarecrow may contact Benicia Main Street, 707-745-9791, or may email info@beniciamainstreet.org.

“Don’t miss this creative and fun opportunity to make this citywide event a success and promote Benicia businesses,” Martinez said.