Unique Halloween hay bale tradition continues in Oldenburg

Roadside display has become a staple for nearly 20 years

(OLDENBURG, Ind.) -- As local families carve pumpkins and decorate for Halloween, one Oldenburg couple has their own unique tradition that catches the attention of drivers.

Marla and Daron Werner transform a hay bale into artwork every fall.

The first hay bale was painted like a pumpkin nearly 20 years ago and it has since become a annual roadside landmark along State Road 229 just outside of Oldenburg.

Each year, they use a skid loader to place the bale along the road on the Thursday before Canal Days in Metamora.

It's common to see drivers pull off the road to snap a photo of the hay bale.

"It makes me happy and I am glad that so many people enjoy my creations," Marla Werner said. "Although I can't take all the credit because my husband Daron is a big help!"

All the decorations on the hay bales come from repurposed material Marla finds around the farm.

The theme this year is a butterfly. Some previous hay bales have been designed as a frog, bumble bee, scare crow, bird, and Marla's personal favorite, Frankenstein.

"I am already thinking of ideas for next year," she added.

The hay bale is located near Lamping Road on State Road 229 and it will be displayed through the month of October.

Here are some designs from past years: