Families soak in fun and sun at Huntley Fall Fest

Scarecrow building, face painting, pumpkin decorating and catching up with friends were all on the bill for the Graiber family of Crystal Lake Sunday, during the final day of the Huntley Fall Fest at Deicke Park.

The great weather coupled with a plethora of activities drew thousands of festival goers to the park off Route 47 in Huntley this weekend.

“We’re just having some family fun, bonding time,” said Michael Graiber, as he helped his three children stuff straw into stockings to build “Bow the Scarecrow.” “We’re just getting ready for the cold weather season.”

So too, was Lisa Linderman, of West Dundee, who enjoyed the festival with her sister and her two children, Jason, 8, and Sydney, 11.

“We’re trying to do all of the fall activities while the weather is still good,” Linderman said. “Just enjoying what’s left of the nice weather.”

The festival, which ran from Friday through Sunday, offered families ample opportunities to enjoy the bright, sunny day with food, live bands, carnival rides, craft tents and many vendors selling wares from doggy bandannas to sparkly headbands.

Breanna and Isablla Westberg, of Huntley, had visited the fest all three days with their mother, Janet Westberg. On Sunday, Breanna, 8, and Isabella, 6, were busy decorating a pumpkin while Janet awaited the set by band 7th Heaven.

“The bands are the best and there’s always good food,” Janet Westberg said. “There’s always so much for the kids to do.”

Proceeds from the fest benefit the Huntley Park Foundation, which supports recreational programs and park district projects. In the past, the fest has helped purchase the stage that shows summer concerts in the park.