A chilly breeze blew crisp, autumn leaves about the street. Light rain poured down onto the families in costumes. Spooky decorations were sprinkled about the square.
The familiar phrase, “trick or treat,” could be heard muttered from children.
Downtown Huntley’s “Trick or Treat Around the Square” was a smash hit.
Despite the frigid fall weather, hundreds of children dressed in their best Halloween costumes went from business to business gathering candy and participating in holiday activities.
The event was held on Thursday, Oct. 31, and ran from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. However, candy was still given out late into the evening during regular Huntley trick-or-treating hours: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
There was a wide variety of costumes the kids wore, from inflatable sharks to witches. Most of the kids were preschool age or younger since the bulk of the event was during the school day.
Most businesses in the square participated.
A popular spot, Parkside Pub, handed out candy to hundreds of families.
“I handed out candy to many children,” Parkside Pub owner Jeff Lovell said. “This is event is great for the community.”
The event was a fantastic way to bring the community closer together.
“The trick-or-treat event has been very family friendly,” Parkside worker Janae Burck said. “The costumes have been adorable. Everybody’s just been so kind.”
Another well-liked restaurant, Village Inn, got hundreds of participants.
“I enjoy [the event] because a lot of the smaller kids don’t get the opportunity to trick-or-treat later in the day,” Village Inn worker Venetia Kamberis said. “It gives the chance for little ones to enjoy Halloween.”
It was not only restaurants taking part. Huntley Legion Post 673 also handed out treats.
“It was awesome,” Huntley Legion worker Koreen Karmis said. “We love it and I think it’s a great idea.”
This annual trick-or-treating event is a great way for families with small kids to participate in Halloween festivities in a fun, safe way.
