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Although Scarecrows in the Park was canceled for this year, the Opp Chamber of Commerce decided to create Fall Frenzy to make sure that the Fall spirit is intact in Opp.

“I didn’t want the residents of Opp to lose that Fall spirit,” Opp Chamber Director Kelly Brandin said. “I thought even if we had to do it on a smaller scale, at least the businesses and organizations could put out their displays to advertise their businesses or organization and the residents of Opp could have the opportunity to go out, just as family and visit the displays and experience that feeling of Fall.”

Brandin said the Fall Frenzy will give residents of Opp and Covington County to participate in a family-oriented event, at no cost.

“Especially during this time of COVID-19 when a lot of events are being canceled, this is a perfect time to go out with family and experience a Fall event,” Brandin said.

In an official announcement, Lake Frank Jackson Trail Masters President Charles Willis announced the cancellation of Scarecrows in the Park.

“Based on the guidelines and restrictions that have been released, we feel it is best to cancel this year’s event,” Willis said.

Scarecrows in the Park is a long-standing tradition for the Trail Masters. Opp City Schools, as well as other schools and organizations, contribute to the thousands that visit Lake Frank Jackson each Fall.

Willis said the inability to utilize golf carts, as well as the limitations on school and nursing home groups visiting, were major factors in the decision.

“Having the event would create a tremendous liability for the Trail Masters. While we had several willing volunteers, it was not sufficient for our needs,” Willis said.

For Fall Frenzy, businesses and organizations are asked to put out fall displays on the side of or behind the Opp Depot. If more area is needed to set up displays, the city will utilize the empty lot located on West Covington Avenue. Downtown businesses may set up their displays in front of their business.

Set up dates are from Sept. 21 until Sept. 30. Clean up dates are Nov. 9 until Nov. 13.

The Chamber advises avoiding digging deep holes due to water lines. Flags are placed in the ground to indicate sprinklers. No vehicles on properties.

The Trail Masters have suspended meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic but are planning a meeting in the next few months. Willis said the group will meet to discuss the coming year. Masks and social distancing will be required. No food will be served.