Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need for the First Friday Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt.
When and where is the hunt?
Friday, October 2, 2026, in downtown Kokomo. 5:30–8:00 PM is the official First Friday event time, but the hunt runs on your schedule — the QR codes stay up after the event, so you’re welcome to play at your own convenience, for as long as the QR codes remain posted. Running late? Completed cards turned in at the Artworks Gallery front desk by 9 PM still enter the Mystery Prize Basket drawing.
How much does it cost?
The hunt itself is free. If you want a hands-on stop, Fired Arts Studio offers ceramic scarecrow painting for $10 (about 30–60 minutes).
Where do I get a postcard?
Pick up a free hunt card at Artworks Gallery, 210 N Main St, Kokomo, IN (pickup at the door) or Fired Arts Studio, 111 W Sycamore St, Kokomo, IN.
Do I have to start at scarecrow #1?
Nope — jump in at any stop and visit them in any order you like.
Do I need to use my phone?
Nope, although it is a large part of a feature designed to enhance the experience. Scanning is optional — every QR card also plainly shows its letter and blank number, so you can play with or without a phone camera. To scan, just point your phone’s camera (or any QR scanner app) at the code and tap the link that pops up.
QR codes look like this. Or skip the app-switching: the Trail Map page has a built-in scanner, so you never have to leave your browser.
What if I forget my phone?
We hope you remembered to bring a friend! Otherwise, you can absolutely still play — the back of each scarecrow’s pumpkin shows that stop’s numbered blank and letter, so just write them on your hunt card as you go. That keeps you in the running for the Mystery Prize Basket. You’ll miss the selfie frames and digital album, though, so a fully charged phone is worth bringing if you have one.
Do I need to download an app or sign up?
Nope — there’s nothing to sign up for, no purchase necessary, and no app to download. The hunt is completely free. Just point your phone’s camera at any pumpkin’s QR code and tap the link that pops up.
What does the phone version add?
Scanning the QR codes unlocks the full experience: each letter is banked automatically, and you can take framed selfie keepsakes at every stop, saved into a personal digital album right in your phone’s browser — your own free Scarecrow Selfie Story to keep and share.
How many scarecrows are there?
21 scarecrows, each with its own letter.
What do I do with the letters?
Write each letter in its numbered blank on your card — the secret phrase fills itself in as you go. Turn in your completed card for a prize entry!
Where do I turn in my card?
Turn it in at the front desk of Artworks Gallery, 210 N Main St.
What can I win?
Every turned-in card earns an entry into the Mystery Prize Basket drawing.
What if I finish after hours?
You’re still in — late finishes count! Artworks Gallery takes finished cards until 9 PM — turn yours in at the front desk to enter the Mystery Prize Basket drawing.
Is there voting for the best scarecrow?
No voting and no contest — but we’d love to see your favorite! Snap a selfie with it and share with #KokomoScarecrows2026.
What should I bring?
Your phone (for QR codes and selfies) and a flashlight if you’ll be out after dark. Please use crosswalks and stay on sidewalks.
Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely — this is a family-friendly event, and kids are encouraged to come hunt with their parents or guardians.
Can I share photos from the hunt?
Please do! Take a selfie with a scarecrow, add a fall frame to it, and post it with #KokomoScarecrows2026.
Are my scarecrow selfies uploaded anywhere?
No — your selfies are stored only in your phone’s browser. The site never uploads anything. The only time a photo leaves your phone is when you choose to share it yourself — to your social media, friends, or family. Each selfie is framed with #KokomoScarecrows2026 across the top and the stop’s sponsor hashtag across the bottom, and your 21 photos become your personal Scarecrow Selfie Story.