The unmistakable crinkling of straw

The unmistakable crinkling of straw - what could it be?

16 June 2025, 2:03 PM

It's straw-stuffin', craftin', and laughter again in the quaint village of Groß Radisch, Upper Lusatia: Young and old alike are showcasing their creative scarecrows at the annual competition, each one lovingly fabricated. One scarecrow looks like it's straight out of a video game, another fire-fightin' duty, and good ol' Herbert's overindulged on cherries once more.

cares of Konstantin Henß from SACHSEN

A peaceful atmosphere hangs over the hamlet of Groß Radisch, home to just over 300 souls. But not so for Sabine Hohlfeld, Gabi Sager, and Ursula Fritsche the other day. They've been on their feet since the crack of dawn, adjusting nine oversized scarecrows, setting up voting booths, and checking their preparations: the bouncy castle is up, the cherry juice is cold, the beer benches are ready. The trio is the beating heart of the organizing team that's been tending to the scarecrow competition with loving precision for years, now celebrating its 30th anniversary.

It was essential for us as a cultural and local history association to preserve this tradition and pass on our legacy.

Competition with Heart and History

What began in 1995 with a spontaneous idea from the Mitschke couple has evolved into a fixed part of village life. The first public scarecrow competition was announced, open to anyone who wanted to let their creative juices flow or simply have a ball. The rules: a figure on a classic wooden cross, stuffed with straw, fabric, paper, wood, and a whole lot of imagination.

VideoStraw Style: Groß Radisch Goes on a Scarecrow Hunt

With the advent of modern technology, the scarecrow competition has taken on a new twist in Groß Radisch. Each year, folks gather to judge the entries based on originality and creativity.

[Video: Groß Radisch Goes on a Scarecrow Hunt] (https://www.vimeo.com/684537186)

This time-honored tradition was initially part of the local cherry festival, as Sabine Hohlfeld shares. However, that hasn't happened since the corona year of 2021, but thanks to the three lovely organizers, the scarecrows continue to be a part of village life. And this year, a small festival with a grill, beer wagon, and sweet waffles has been organized once more, they report.

Creativity Unleashed

Nine scarecrows are vying for attention this year in Groß Radisch. Four of them were crafted by children. One looks like a green figure from the popular video game Minecraft, and another resembles a fluffy llama. The four adult entries are just as impressive: one scarecrow is dressed as a firefighter, another sports spoons as jewelry, and the scarecrow named Herbert is taking a little snack break - perhaps because he indulged in too many cherries.

Judging? Everyone gets a prize!

What sets this competition apart, Gabi Sager claims, is not just the creativity of the participants, but the sense of community. Since 2000, the scarecrows of children have been judged separately from those of adults to ensure fairness. Moreover, according to the organizing team, every scarecrow deserves a prize. Each one receives a small award and a carefully wrapped gift from local sponsors. They put in so much effort; they would be disappointed if they didn't get anything.

A village comes together

The scarecrow competition is more than just a small village tradition for many in Groß Radisch. Sabine Hohlfeld, Gabi Sager, and Ursula Fritsche feel the same way, as organizing it brings them so much joy, and the whole town unites and celebrates. Even though only eight participants presented nine scarecrows this year. For the local association, every smile at the sight of the unexpected or heartwarming figures is proof: The effort is worth it.

In photography, Brave and Bold: What Modern-Day Scarecrows Look Like Today

It's more than just a competition of the strange and funny; it's a display of individual creativity and talent. The scarecrows in Groß Radisch, Lusatia, are striking examples of the effort and humor poured into their creation.

[Photo Gallery: Brave and Bold Scarecrows] (https://www.flickr.com/photos/sachsen-website/sets/72157656251893167)

Keeping Tradition Alive

Despite the passage of decades, organizer Gabi Sager is still amazed by the extraordinary creations that her neighbors come up with. It's always a delight to watch the adults and children showcase their talents.

This small hamlet of Groß Radisch is known in the area for its annual scarecrow competition, which has been drawing visitors for more than three decades. The event is a highlight of the community, bringing together folks from all walks of life to celebrate their shared cultural legacy. Despite any challenges they may face, the organizers remain committed to keeping this treasured tradition alive.