Scarecrow Fest Parking: What You Need to Know

With crowds averaging 150,000 in recent years, it’s no wonder the St. Charles Police Department is reminding residents and visitors that parking will be limited and be alert for a lot more pedestrians than usual during Scarecrow Fest.

The annual fall festival starts Friday, Oct. 11, and runs through Sunday, Oct. 13, in downtown St. Charles.

Because of the crowds and heavy traffic, festival attendees are encouraged to carpool and use the remote parking lots with free shuttle bus service. The Park and Shuttle Lots are at:

West Side Parking

• Haines Middle School — 9th and Indiana streets.

• Community Unit School District 303 Administration Lot — 7th and Indiana streets.

East Side Parking

• Charlestowne Mall, Parking lot H — 3800 E. Main St.

Lot Closures

The following parking lot closures will be in effect on the days listed below:

• Municipal Parking Lot G: River Plaza Parking Lot – North 2nd and Cedar/State streets, Wednesday through Sunday.

Street Closures

The following street closures will be in effect on the days listed below:

• North 3rd Street between Cedar and State streets, Thursday-Sunday.

• North 4th Street between West Main and Cedar streets, Friday-Sunday.

Parking Restrictions

Parking will be restricted/prohibited on a number of city streets. Additional handicapped parking will be posted on North 5th Street, North 4th Street, and North Riverside Avenue. Motorists are encouraged to check for signs before parking. Handicapped parking areas will be strictly enforced with a $250 fine.

St. Charles Police Department and Emergency Management personnel will provide pedestrian assistance/traffic control at key intersections. Motorists should expect delays and are reminded to use caution due to the increased amount of pedestrian traffic. Please do not drive distracted.