Apparently, scarecrows are very busy this time of year. It seems that working hard in the fields and entertaining passersby aren’t enough. In Kennebunkport, Maine there’s a new fresh crop of scarecrows ready for their annual meeting. There’s also a scarecrow wedding in the works… just when you thought you’d seen it all.
The Gathering of the Scarecrows is from Monday, October 11th through Sunday, October 17th. It’s when scarecrows meet to discuss next year’s growing season. Each October, scarecrows from corn fields and gardens all over Maine arrive in Kennebunkport and assume their positions. If you’re in town, pick up an entry form, jot down the names of all the scarecrows you meet along the way. Many inns, shops, and open spaces in this seaside town will feature the straw-filled mannequins, so it’s a great way to mingle with locals and possibly win a prize—just make sure to stop by the Colonial Pharmacy by Friday, October 16th to drop off your form.
On Saturday, October 17th at 3 pm, the scarecrows will parade to the Village Green from Dock Square, for crafts, food, live music, and a final farewell to the season. Sunday, October 17th, there’s a mile-long road race. Though perhaps the most talked about event will be the scarecrow wedding. Yes—the actual scarecrows get hitched at the Nonantum Resort on Monday, October 11th.
If you’re seeking to combine your leaf-peeping with scarecrow-sightings (and hay-filled nuptials), BnBFinder.com has put together a list of top Kennebunkport inns:
Cozy Escape. Across the Kennebunk River, adjacent to a tidal inlet, the historic Green Heron Inn offers classic Maine hospitality, scenic views and abundant wildlife. A three-course breakfast along with warm cookies, treats, coffee and teas lure guests onto the cozy Adirondack chairs. The inn also features charming guest rooms and multiple fireplaces and a casual and welcoming ambiance.
Casual Chic. Individually designed cottages and quietly lavish services make the Hidden Pond Kennebunkport a popular place among couples, friends, and group travelers. Alfresco showers and quiet porches are just a few of the amenities. Each cottage includes a large living room, two bedrooms, fireplace, a flat panel TV with a DVD player and an iPod dock. The inn also features an onsite spa, complete with fitness center and pool.
Federal Style Retreat. Specialty teas in the garden room, candle-lit three-course served breakfasts, freshly-baked cookies and hot-mulled cider, are just a few of the welcoming details at The Captain Jefferds Inn Bed & Breakfast. The inn, located in the quiet, historic residential area of the village, is just a half-a-block from the Kennebunk River and three blocks from the village center with it’s restaurants, boutique shops and art galleries. Captain Jefferds has 10 individually decorated rooms in the main house and five rooms in the attached carriage house. The carriage house rooms all have direct outdoor-access and are pet-friendly. All rooms feature federal style details along with flat screens and WiFi. Optional turn-down service is included.
Vintage Stay. Just off the beaten path, is the Old Fort Inn. Tucked away on 15 landscaped and wooded acres of vintage estates, this luxurious country bed and breakfast is near miles of sandy beaches, rugged coast, and winding country roads. It is also 5-minutes form two 18-hole golf courses and nearby sailing and deep-sea fishing adventures. Local antique shops and art galleries are within walking distance too.
Sea-Style Fusion. Centrally located on a quiet street near the center of Kennebunkport, Captain Fairfield Inn offers Federal style sea captain features and a blend of historic and soft modern styling. Designer linens, fireplaces, whirlpool and soaking tubs, wireless internet, flat panel televisions and DVD players are just some of the amenities. Gourmet breakfasts feature seasonal and local ingredients, including the inn’s signature orange juice blend and freshly baked pastries.
Beachside Stay. The King’s Port Bed & Breakfast Hotel is walking distance to Kennebunk Beach and Dock Square. The B&B boasts nearly three-dozen handsomely designed guest rooms and suites all with marble tiled bathrooms and granite counter tops. Some rooms offer fireplaces, as well as 2-person Jacuzzi tubs and dual showers. The inn also includes free parking, complimentary extended continental breakfast with homemade waffles and pastries, free wireless internet in the parlor, and beach passes.
Sea-Faring Inn. The Kennebunkport Inn is a quiet romantic resort popular among sea-faring adventurers. Sailing, fishing, whale watching are all nearby, as are antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques. The inn’s 49-guest rooms are located among its three properties–the Main Inn, the Riverhouse and Wharfside buildings. Onsite dining options include ‘One Dock’ the Kennebunkport Inn’s newly opened restaurant, the lively piano bar featuring some of the finest local talent, and dining under the stars on Artemesia’s outdoor patio.
Oldest House. Fresh-pressed apple cider, roaring fires, and nearby trails abound at the historically rich and romantic Waldo Emerson Inn Bed and Breakfast. The Inn is the oldest remaining house in Kennebunk and has had several famous owners. The original Dutch gambrel was constructed by one Waldo Emerson in 1753. Waldo, great-uncle of Ralph Waldo Emerson, the poet and essayist, made a tidy profit building clipper ships on the river behind the house.
For more information on Kennebunkport inns or Maine bed and breakfasts stick with bnbfinder.com.
