A festival that started in 1985 with 12 scarecrows and a couple hundred people has continued to soar in popularity in the Fox Valley.

Now entering its 23rd year, St. Charles’ Scarecrow Festival, which runs Friday through Sunday at Lincoln Park in downtown St. Charles, has become the largest fall event in the Midwest.

More than 150 scarecrows have been entered in the festival contest this year. The event draws as many as 75,000 per year.

MSNBC recently named the fest one of the top 19 “not to miss” autumn attractions; and it has also been recognized as one of the Top 100 events in the country by the American Bus Association.

“It’s a family event,” said Kathy Loubsky, Scarecrow Festival director. “I think scarecrows are for people young at heart whether you are 2 or 102.”

This year, the fest has added the Meijer virtual playground, an interactive mobile truck that will allow visitors to play the Nintendo Wii game system and use HP photo creation technology. A model railroad show by the Model Railroad Club of Elgin will showcase 20 train displays.

Scarecrow artists come from eight states and as far away as England. Visitors will also have the chance to make their own scarecrows with free supplies.

“People love making the scarecrows, it’s incredible,” said event organizer Melissa Oehlerking. “(Scarecrow Fest) is a large festival; and it’s the last hurrah for families to get out and do some family activities.”

Loubsky, who has served as festival director for the last 12 years, said the event has grown each year because of the popularity of the crafts and scarecrows.

“The focus of scarecrows has universal appeal for people,” Loubsky said. “It’s the time of year people like to get out and enjoy the last few days before winter settles in.”

As of Tuesday, 164 scarecrow crafters had entered the  contest, where the public votes on the best creation. The event coincides with the Autumn on the Fox Arts and Crafts Show in Pottawatomie Park. There will also be storytelling and crafts for children.

The Scarecrow Festival also brings new business to the local stores.

“As retailers, it’s a great festival,” said Judy Jenro, owner of the Coffee Drop Shop. “It’s a fun-filled festival weekend.

“They can see the music and crafts when they’re out there.”