Charlottetown is getting ready to welcome the return of one of Prince Edward Island’s most anticipated fall celebrations. The Charlottetown Scarecrow Festival, running from October 3 to 31, 2025, marks its fifth year of transforming the city’s downtown into a whimsical autumn wonderland filled with creativity, community spirit, and festive fun.
A Month of Fall Fun and Community Creativity
The month-long festival will feature over 800 handcrafted scarecrows, each adding colour and character to the city’s streets. The installations—many designed by local artist Julie Doneff—have become a hallmark of the event, delighting both residents and visitors. This year, Creative PEI has joined the initiative, introducing new scarecrow creations that bring an added level of artistry and imagination to the festival’s displays.
“These whimsical characters pop up in playful clusters throughout the downtown core, transforming Charlottetown into a one-of-a-kind autumn wonderland,” organizers said. The vibrant displays encourage visitors to explore Charlottetown’s streets, discover local shops and restaurants, and experience the spirit of the season.
A Festival with Purpose
“The Scarecrow Festival is an umbrella marketing initiative created to encourage locals and visitors to explore the city in the Fall, beautify the downtown, and work with operators to create events of their own,” said Heidi Zinn, Executive Director of Discover Charlottetown.
What began as a community beautification project has evolved into a signature seasonal celebration that attracts thousands each year. The event has become a vital part of the city’s fall tourism economy, extending the visitor season and supporting downtown businesses before the onset of winter.
Month-Long Programming and Special Events
Beyond the scarecrow installations, the festival offers an array of family-friendly and adults-only events designed to appeal to every taste. From spooky experiences to cozy gatherings, the Charlottetown Scarecrow Festival’s calendar is packed with entertainment.
Festival Highlights include:
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Haunted Hotel Rooms – Daily throughout October
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The Wicked Spirits Cocktail Mix-Off – Daily
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October Movie Nights at Tivoli Cinema – Nearly every evening
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Ghost Tours with the Heritage Players – Select days
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Haunting Season at Beaconsfield – October 3–25
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Mystic Nights: Open-Air Oracle Readings – Fridays, October 3, 10, 17 & 24
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Haunted Horse & Wagon Rides – October 10, 11 & 30
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Oktoberfest at the PEI Brewing Company – October 11
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Harvest Fest at Founders’ Food Hall & Market – October 18
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Patio Parties at Next Door Lounge – October 18 & 25
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Bewitching Market at the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market – October 25
From daytime markets and harvest festivals to nighttime ghost tours and cocktail competitions, the festival blends community, creativity, and celebration. The programming reflects a balance between family-oriented daytime events and adult-focused evening activities, encouraging visitors to experience the city’s hospitality around the clock.
Collaboration Fuels the Festival’s Growth
This year’s partnership with Creative PEI underscores the festival’s continued growth as a platform for local artists and artisans. The organization’s involvement ensures that the scarecrow designs evolve each year, incorporating new materials, themes, and techniques that reflect the changing artistic landscape of the province.
The event’s collaborative approach also extends to Charlottetown’s business community. Restaurants, pubs, and retailers have embraced the fall festivities by organizing themed promotions and events. The Wicked Spirits Cocktail Mix-Off, for example, invites local bartenders to craft seasonal beverages inspired by Halloween, while outdoor patios host autumn-themed parties and live music.
Celebrating Charlottetown’s Fall Spirit
With its combination of visual art, cultural programming, and festive atmosphere, the Charlottetown Scarecrow Festival continues to strengthen the city’s identity as a year-round destination. The event not only enhances downtown’s appeal but also supports the local economy by encouraging overnight stays, dining experiences, and retail visits throughout October.
Visitors can stroll through streets lined with scarecrows dressed as pirates, farmers, ghosts, and pop culture icons—each representing the creativity and humour of the island’s residents. The result is a city transformed into a living gallery of community art and seasonal joy.
“With family-friendly fun by day and spooky, grown-up adventures by night, there’s something for everyone at the Charlottetown Scarecrow Festival,” the release notes. “Plan your fall getaway and experience the creativity, charm, and Halloween spirit that make Charlottetown the perfect autumn destination.”
Plan Your Visit
Those planning to attend can find the full schedule of events, locations, and festival updates online at DiscoverCharlottetown.com/ScarecrowFestival.
As the leaves change colour and cooler air settles over Prince Edward Island, the Charlottetown Scarecrow Festival offers a unique way to celebrate the season — through art, community, and the simple joy of shared creativity.
