Temecula wine country scarecrows want your vote

Temecula wine country guests are invited to jump into fall with the region’s inaugural Charity Scarecrow Contest.

Temecula wine country guests are invited to jump into fall with the region's inaugural Charity Scarecrow Contest. (Credit: JoJan/Wikimedia)

The “election” festivities are part of the 22nd Annual Harvest Celebration Barrel Tasting Weekend held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 3-4 in Temecula.

Sponsored by the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, the contest inspires local wineries to get creative with bales of hay for a chance to win the $500 cash prize for their chosen non-profit organization, according to a released statement.

Charities include the Susan G. Komen Foundation Inland Empire, Michelle’s Place and Our Nicolas Foundation.

The popular two-day event allows guests to get up close and personal with 35 Temecula wineries on self-guided tours at harvest time.

Guests are encouraged to vote for their favorite scarecrow creation with the postcard provided in person or via email at info@temeculawines.org.

Votes can also be cast by visiting Facebook at Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association and searching “Scarecrow Contest 2012.”

Voting will continue online through November. Participants will automatically be entered into a drawing to win four tickets to the World of Wine Event in March.

Winner will be contacted via email by December 15, 2012.

To purchase tickets to the Annual Harvest Celebration, visit www.temeculawines.org.