THREE OAKS, Mich. — An annual southwest Michigan tradition on Columbus Day Weekend, Harvest Days, has been expanded this year to include additional activities and events throughout the month of October.

This family-friendly celebration of fall includes special events, culinary delights, artist receptions, live performances, tastings, and a scarecrow contest throughout the eight towns of Harbor Country: New Buffalo, Union Pier, Three Oaks, Lakeside, Harbert, Sawyer, Michiana, and Grand Beach.

Highlights include:

• Dinges Fall Harvest — fun on the farm with hayrides, “Lost in Space” corn maze, pumpkin patch and more

• 10th Annual New Buffalo Harvest & Wine Festival featuring live music, kid’s art activities, wines, craft beers and hard cider from local producers

• Skip’s Chili Cook-Off with area chefs competing for the best chili

Wurstfest — a family friendly street festival in downtown Three Oaks

12th Annual Harbor Country Kitchen Walk – a tour of amazing kitchens in extraordinary homes of Harbor Country.

• This year, 16 unique scarecrows and harvest-decor displays have been installed. Many were created by local artists using non-traditional materials. Bring a camera and take advantage of a unique photo opportunity as you walk, bike, or drive throughout the area.

Local chefs will offer seasonal favorites such as caramel apples, pies, delicious fall soups and seasonally inspired cuisine. Adults will enjoy seasonal beers, wines and creative cocktails from local wineries, craft breweries and distilleries.

Local shops, galleries, and antique malls offer special sales, trunk shows, and vintage finds.

Harvest Days is sponsored by the Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce with support from local businesses and The Pokagon Fund. A complete schedule of events and scarecrow map is available at local businesses and at www.harborcountry.org/harvestdays.