A longtime fall tradition in Chappell Hill is getting a fresh new look this year with the debut of the Scarecrow Music Festival, scheduled for October 10–11, 2026.
The two-day event will take place in downtown Chappell Hill and is being promoted as a reimagined version of the community’s historic Scarecrow Festival, which has been a staple in the area for decades. Organizers are positioning the new format as a blend of tradition and entertainment, centered around live Texas country music, local vendors, and small-town charm.
The festival is expected to feature multiple stages, live performances from Texas country artists, food vendors, artisan booths, and community activities. Early information also points to additional attractions such as a chili cook-off, scarecrow-themed contests, and a large vendor marketplace.
Organizers say the event builds on a 48-year legacy, aiming to preserve the spirit of the original festival while expanding its reach and appeal. The transition comes after concerns earlier this year that the traditional festival might not continue due to rising costs and declining volunteer participation. A new partnership has since stepped in to help revive and restructure the event into its current music-focused format.
All proceeds from the festival will benefit local organizations, including the Chappell Hill Historical Society, the Volunteer Fire Department, and the Chamber of Commerce—continuing the event’s longstanding role as a key community fundraiser.
While excitement is building, organizers emphasize that this is still a developing event. Details such as the full entertainment schedule, vendor lineup, and logistical information are continuing to evolve, and all lineups and programming remain subject to change as planning progresses.
Even so, the return of the Scarecrow Festival—now with a musical twist—signals a renewed effort to celebrate Chappell Hill’s heritage while drawing new visitors to the area for a full weekend of fall festivities.
