What do Oscar the Grouch, flamingos, and a ballet dancer have in common? They are three of the many straw sculptures you’ll discover on our campus during the National Straw Sculpting Competition – affectionally known as Strawfest by the locals. Talented artists submit creative, whimsical, and remarkably detailed sculptures made of straw for fame, glory, fun, and prizes. And you get to vote on your favorite.
It’s a unique and uniquely Midwestern festival that you must see to believe – and you can only see it in Mt. Morris from August 9 to 25. Wander our beautiful campus uptown, take selfies with the sculptures, vote for your favorite, and catch the local musicians on the Straw Jam Stage next to the bandshell on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Of course, our popular Mt. Morris Jamboree free concerts are every Friday and Saturday night in the Reckmeyer bandshell throughout the festival. Schedule here.
The National Straw Sculpting Competition culminates on Strawfest Day, August 24, with round bale races, games, demonstrations, food, and more music. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind event. Learn more here.
Make My Town, Mt. Morris, your destination for free, family-friendly, end-of-summer entertainment.