Huntley celebrates its first maskless holiday in over a year

HUNTLEY – As COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease with increased vaccination efforts, communities across the U.S. were able to partake in a somewhat normal Memorial Day weekend. Huntley in particular, welcomed residents to its annual Memorial Day Parade and ceremony on May 31.

This was the first major public event in Huntley since the pandemic began over a year ago. The parade kicked off at 11 a.m. from the Municipal Complex and traveled west on Main Street, continuing all the way to the Town Square. A short ceremony to honor veterans followed afterwards, where it was apparent that all was not yet 100% back to normal.

Typically, there would have been a live band playing during the ceremony, though this year’s parade did not feature that. Huntley Legion Post 673 would have also provided sandwiches for residents, but was unable to, due to COVID-19 precautions.

Despite a few missing aspects, the large crowd of mostly maskless residents proved how eager people are to return to some semblance of normalcy.

This was the case for Vietnam War veteran John Diebold and his wife Jan, who were both equally as excited to be able to be in attendance at Huntley’s Memorial Day celebration.

When asked what their favorite part about the celebration was, Jan responded with, “Just getting out and [being] together with everybody here.”

“The parade. It’s many, many years we’ve been coming to this. It’s enjoyable,” John said.

Speaking of the parade, attendees were not left empty handed. With each passing parade participant, came handfuls of candy gently tossed to the large crowds of people standing at either side of Main Street.

Additionally, Culver’s gave out coupons for a free scoop of frozen custard.

Village president Tim Hoeft was also present at the ceremony where he gave a speech honoring veterans who have served the country.

My Huntley News spoke with Hoeft regarding his thoughts on the village finally being able to host a large public event after over a year without doing so because of the pandemic.

“It’s probably the most awesome feeling that I could’ve imagined we’d have. Just having everybody here, it’s very nice and touching and I’m glad as many [people] came out as they did,” Hoeft said.

As Illinois anticipates entering Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan come June 11, Huntley residents can continue to expect more big events making their return to the community this year.