Perfect Weather for Montana’s Best Outdoor Halloween Fun

It's not often ghosts will hold still enough so you can get a good look at them.

But in Stevensville this weekend, thousands of people will be able to bear witness that there ARE ghosts and goblins with the return of the annual Stevensville Scarecrow Festival.

And if last year is any indication, this could be the biggest year ever for the community celebration in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley.

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The Scarecrow Festival was the brainchild of the late Gary Knapp, a leader in the Stevensville Art and Sculpture Society, who wanted to find a way to promote sculptures, with scarecrows lining the trail on the north side of town. After Gary's passing, the Stevensville Main Street Association sponsored the event. Following a pandemic pause, River's Mist Gallery and Gifts Artist's Co-op and Coding for Kids revived the tradition, with businesses and other groups lending financial support.

Last year's Festival and events drew record crowds, with thousands showing up for the walk and other activities on a 70-degree October evening.

This year, the weather looks even better

Called "Community Art Celebrating the Autumn Season", this year's "turnout" of scarecrows could be a record, with 59 registered by businesses and community groups. The scarecrows have been going up this week, and on Friday evening people can tour the amazing creations and vote for their favorites.

More than scarecrows

Displays and activities will be throughout Main Street, including face painting, a pet costume contest, and a Monster Mash Dance Party from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Businesses will be serving up kettle corn, chili, cornbread, and other fall treats.

There's also a carved pumpkin contest at Active Care at 212 Main Street, from 5 pm to 8 pm Friday for kids 12 and under. Then, an "Extreme Carved Pumpkin Contest" for teens and adults at Trapper Creek Coffee as the activities continue on Saturday. Be sure to bring pre-carved pumpkins only, and check here for full contest details.

The scarecrows will remain on display through the coming week.

See more: The Scarecrow Festival through the years