Downtown New Canaan’s lampposts have taken on two distinct roles this October, each supporting a different local cause. Early in the month, pink bows and signs marked the return of Project Pink, a breast cancer awareness and fundraising initiative founded by survivor Julie Stein. Residents and businesses sponsored lampposts for $100 donations to support breast cancer research, many dedicating them in honor or memory of loved ones. The display ran from October 1 through October 13. Donations can still be made and tickets purchased for the Racks & Cracks for a Cure mahjong and shopping event on October 29 by visiting projectpinknewcanaan.org.
Within days, crews replaced the bows with entries for the annual Scarecrow Festival, which runs October 14–31. This year’s theme, “New Canaan Goes to Hollywood,” features scarecrows designed as celebrities and film characters. Funds raised from the festival benefit Inclusive Together, a local nonprofit that embraces and celebrates neurodiversity. Among those initiatives is Sensory Hour, returning on October 24 at 4:30 p.m. during the Waveny Fall Family Fun Event, offering early access in a quieter environment for families with sensory needs. Donations and wristbands for Inclusive Together events are available at inclusive2gether.org.
