Spooky, silly and seriously creative, more than 50 scarecrows are taking over Stony Brook Village this fall. The annual scarecrow competition, hosted by the Ward Melville Heritage Organization, is celebrating its 36th year of bringing local businesses and community groups together.

"It brings together the community every year. We have multiple different businesses that participate, Girl Scout troops, Boy Scout troops that come by. It's just a great event to bring the community together," said Claudia Powell, Ward Melville Heritage Organization Communications Manager. And the creativity seems to get better every year. You will find scarecrows inspired by Stony Brook sunsets, The Cat in the Hat, firefighters, Minions and even Jurassic Park. The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is also getting in on the fun, putting its own spin on Everybody Loves Raymond.

One of the creations is a mermaid made by Katelyn Hart, owner of Kate's Vintage Rose. "The win is that everyone is coming down to see it," said Hart. For local businesses, the competition is about more than just bragging rights. Hart says the event gives shoppers another reason to visit the village and support small businesses.

And now, the choice is in the hands of the community. Visitors can pick their favorite by casting a ballot at participating local shops. The scarecrow with the most votes will take home the prize. Voting is open through October 25, and the winners will be announced on Halloween.