HUNTLEY – Huntley Fall Fest 2011 might just have you spinning … literally.
For the first time since the Fall Fest’s inception in 2006, a full carnival is being added to this anticipated annual event that ushers in the change of the seasons in Huntley.
Where: Deicke Park
When: September 23-25
More info: Vist huntleyfallfest.com
Fall Fest started as a small, one-day event as a combined spinoff off a town picnic and the event the Huntley Jaycees used to hold in the formerly named Prime Outlets Mall (now Huntley Outlet Center).
With the popular response, said Fall Fest chairman Bryant Haniszweski, the little event grew into a full-weekend event that offeres vendors, a book sale, attractions, sponsors (such as the Huntley Lions and their Pancake Breakfast, and community partner the Huntley Jaycees) and a main stage with plenty of entertainment, among other features.
“It’s a festival that includes something for everybody,” Haniszweski said. He added that the carnival is another step in the Fall Fest’s evolution.
“We’ve got some good feet on our festival legs,” said Haniszweski.
Haniszweski said that the carnival will also help increase revenue to enable the festival to continue and keep contributing to the community year round. Fall Fest revenue currently helps both the parks and several area groups yearly. Proceeds benefit the Huntley Parks Foundation (which is a subset of the Huntley Park District). In the past, the foundation has purchased the stage that is now also used for the concerts in Deicke Park and also infrastructures, such as the electricity used in Deicke Park for the concerts and other yearly events.
“The more people in Huntley who come out…” Haniszweski said, “…the more we’ll be able to put back into our community.”
Also added to the bill this year is a scarecrow contest, which is voted on by Fall Fest-goers.
Haniszewski said, “There’s something for everybody, for every member of the family.”
