TOMS RIVER – Downtown Toms River is bursting with fall spirit as the annual Scarecrow Walk returns—bigger than ever—with more than 50 creative displays lining Washington Street and spilling onto Main Street.
The festive showcase, organized by the Downtown Toms River Business Improvement District (BID), invites residents, businesses, and community groups to craft their own scarecrow masterpieces for public viewing and voting. This year’s event marks the largest turnout since the tradition began several years ago under former BID Marketing and Event Coordinator Kim Dippolito.
“The Scarecrow Walk was started to bring people downtown, get them excited about the season, and show off our local creativity,” BID officials said. “It’s become a community favorite that keeps growing every year.”
Visitors can view the scarecrows from October 10 through October 31 and vote for their favorites at participating businesses. Official ballot boxes are located at the Ocean County Library’s Toms River Branch and in the corridor of The Shops @53 Main.
Two $200 prizes will be awarded—one chosen by judges and another by popular vote. A single entry could take home both awards for a total of $400.
The walk complements a season packed with downtown festivities, including the Harvest Arts Festival, student-painted window displays, and the 86th annual Toms River Fire Company #1 Halloween Parade, one of the largest in the world.
More information on upcoming downtown events and future Scarecrow Walk participation is available at downtowntomsriver.com.
