The global pandemic is such that even scarecrows must wear masks in downtown Palmerton.

In a unique twist, all decorated straw men specimens are to be clad in facial coverings during the borough’s 10th annual scarecrow display.

Sponsored by the Palmerton Area Chamber of Commerce, the display is set to get underway Oct. 1 and will remain as such for the entire month.

Not only is the display an opportunity to showcase the borough, it’s also a way to promote its stores and shops, according to Joan Turko, event coordinator.

“Visit the shops, do some shopping here, buy some groceries here on Delaware Avenue,” Turko said. “And coming to see our scarecrows, which are usually very nicely done, and hopefully, they will shop here.”

Turko said that this year, due to COVID-19, all participants are asked to put a mask on their scarecrows, an idea conceptualized by Palmerton Area Historical Society member Jane Borbe.

“It was her idea; I must give her credit for it, because I jumped on it right away,” she said. “I said, ‘this is fabulous.’?”

Turko said many of the businesses, such as Leon A. George II School Buses, Shea’s Hardware and Bert’s Steakhouse and Restaurant have always been “innovative” with their ideas.

She said the Palmerton Area Historical Society has been creative as well over the years, and noted that Hager Furniture has put things in their window.

Turko said above all else, she’s hopeful people will choose to participate in the display.

“Some people have them outside, and some people have put them in the windows in the downtown,” she said. “If we can get people even to do that if they don’t want something standing outside.”

Turko said those in need of a stand should contact Brian Billig at Palmerton Lumber Company to make arrangements.

Anyone with questions about this year’s scarecrow display should contact Turko at 610-826-2716, or at turkoadv@ptd.net.