A Very Merry Huntley to open with the Running of the Elves 5K

A Very Merry Huntley returns with fun festivities for all on Saturday, Dec. 3.

New this year, the Rotary Club of Huntley is hosting a Running of the Elves 5K and 1-mile walk at Betsey Warrington Park, 12209 W. Main St.

Proceeds from the run/walk will go toward Grafton Food Pantry, scholarships for Huntley High School and international scholarships, plus support for Veterans Path to Hope.

The half-mile dash for age 12 or younger will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the Elf 5K Run at 10:30 a.m., and the 1-mile walk at 10:45 a.m.

Sign up by Dec. 2 at tinyurl.com/RunningofElves. Cost for the 5K is $35 for age 13 or older, or $20 for 12 or younger; it is $20 and $25 for the 1-mile walk or $10 for the Kids Dash

Race-day registration opens at 8:30 a.m.

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., shop the Kriss Kringle Market for gifts and more in the fellowship hall of First Congregational Church, 11628 E. Main St.

There also will be free kids games and craft to go from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In the afternoon, enjoy "Christmas on the Square" events on the Town Square, off Coral Street between Church and Woodstock streets.

Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys For Tots collection box between 3 and 5 p.m.

From 3 to 6 p.m., visit with live reindeer, enjoy free hot chocolate, and take a ride on Huntley Holiday Express, a trackless train.

Bring money to vote for your favorite decorated Christmas tree. The tree with the most money collected wins and all the money goes to the Grafton Food Pantry. The trees will be set up in front of the Legion Hall on Coral Street.

Santa & Mrs. Claus will be arriving on a fire truck at 5 p.m. for the lighting of Christmas tree in Town Square. It will be followed by a holiday fireworks show. Get a free photo with Santa in the gazebo by Digital Origin Productions.

Stop by the American Legion Post 673 Hall from 4 to 6:30 p.m. for the Community Pasta Dinner. Cost is $8, $4 for kids, age 4 to 9, or free for kids, age 3 or younger. Enjoy pasta, meatballs, Italian sausage, bread and more. Thanks to the generous sponsors: Huntley Legion Auxiliary Post 673, Village Inn Restaurant, Rosati's of Huntley, and ERG Construction. Proceeds from the dinner also will be donated to the Grafton Food Pantry.

For details, contact Barb at bread@huntley.il.us or (847) 515-5262, or visit www.huntley.il.us.