Have you ever wondered if scarecrows, those figures made of straw and old clothes standing in fields, have their own special day? Yes, the first Sunday of July every year is celebrated as 'Build A Scarecrow Day'. This day is particularly for farmers, gardeners, and anyone connected to agriculture and greenery. While it originated in America, this celebration is becoming popular worldwide. Scarecrows are not just a means of keeping birds away from crops, but they have also become a symbol of tradition, culture, and creativity.
What is a Scarecrow?
A scarecrow is a human-like figure that farmers create in their fields to keep birds away. Traditional scarecrows are usually made with old clothes, straw (or hay), and wood. They stand in the fields, scaring crows and other birds to prevent them from damaging the crops. Interestingly, some people in the olden days believed that these scarecrows had the power to ward off not only birds but also evil spirits!
The History of Build A Scarecrow Day
The history of scarecrows is very old. Scarecrows are mentioned in Japan around 700 AD. In America, Native Americans were using scarecrows even before the arrival of European settlers.
The word 'Scarecrow' became popular in England in the 16th century, but they were also known by other names like 'strawman', 'ragamuffin' and 'shaggy dog'. This tradition in America is more than a hundred years old, but now this festival has become popular in many other countries, including Britain.
Why Celebrate Build A Scarecrow Day?
This day is celebrated to show respect to farmers, acknowledge their contributions, and understand the role of scarecrows in protecting crops. This day becomes an opportunity for children, adults, and the entire community to do something creative together. Especially in rural areas, this day is a kind of cultural preparation before the harvest.
How to Celebrate Build A Scarecrow Day?
1. Make a Scarecrow Yourself
The best way to celebrate this day is – to make a scarecrow yourself! For this you need:
- Old clothes
- Straw, dry grass, or newspaper
- Two wooden rods (one long and one short)
- Rope or thread
While making the scarecrow, you can also decorate its hat, face, hair, etc. in a creative way. Take the children along, this can prove to be a fun activity for them.
2. Participate in Competitions
Many villages and cities organize scarecrow-making competitions. You can participate in the festivals of your area and win prizes by making the most beautiful or scariest scarecrow.
3. Participate in Scarecrow Festivals
Scarecrow festivals are held in many places around the world, such as:
- Cambria Scarecrow Festival – California, USA
- St. Charles Scarecrow Weekend – Illinois, USA
- Durrow Scarecrow Festival – Ireland
- Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival – UK
If you are a travel enthusiast, then enjoy new experiences by participating in any such festival.
4. Nagoro, Japan – The Scarecrow Village
In the village of Nagoro, Japan, there are more than 350 scarecrows, who seem busy in every moment of life like humans – someone is working in the fields, someone is waiting for the bus, someone is resting. It is also called Kakashi no Sato. If you get a chance, definitely visit this amazing village.
Benefits of Making Scarecrows
- Protection of crops: The biggest advantage is that they keep birds away from the fields.
- Promotes creativity: Making scarecrows develops the creative skills of both children and adults.
- Connects the community: Social bonds are strengthened when something is done together.
- Environmentally friendly: These are made from old clothes and straw, so there is no pollution.
Some Fun Facts
- The average 'lifespan' of a scarecrow is about 2-3 years.
- Some people even give scarecrows names, ages, and backstory stories!
- In the olden days, they were given colorful faces and hats to make them look scary in the fields.
Build A Scarecrow Day is not just a fun activity, but a day that gives us an opportunity to connect with nature, agriculture, and creativity. By celebrating this day, we can not only connect our children to traditions, but also bring out the artist hidden within us.
