Huntley Legion to host fifth annual Veterans Vet Fest

HUNTLEY – The Huntley Legion Veterans Vet Fest will be on June 19 at 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. in Town Square to allow veterans in surrounding areas to connect with each other and socialize. 

“It’s like a large party,” said Mike Stojak, club manager of The Huntley Legion. 

The Huntley Legion will ask for donations at the door. Charities that the legion collaborates with to help veterans will set up tables with their information at the fest to collect money for local veteran organizations.

“We raise money to give it away,” Stojak said. 

Charities will include Air Force Recruiters, Marine Corp. Recruiters, Veteran’s Path to Hope, Honor Flight Chicago, Lutheran Charities Comfort Dogs, McHenry Veteran’s Assistance, Commission, and Battle Betties, said Lori Nichols, staff member at the Huntley Legion. 

For the fifth year Veteran’s Fest will occupy 11712 Coral St., with a showcase of military equipment for visitors to check out from 3 to 7 p.m., Stojak said. 

Throughout the day three live bands will perform. Serendipity will perform 4 to 6 p.m., Bucket Number 6 will start at 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., and Cheap Foreign Cars will play from 9 to 11 p.m., allowing a break in between bands, Stojak said. 

“The main focus is to get veterans to show up, meet new veterans and people,” Stojak said. 

Beaner’s Mexican BBQ, 12020 Maple Ave., Hebron, IL, will provide food for the event, including burgers, hotdogs, chicken, pulled pork, and brisket, Stojak said. 

A beer tent will also be open throughout the day, in addition to concessions serving popcorn, soft pretzels, pizza, pop, and water, Nichols said. 

In addition to facepaint for children, Rosati’s pizza will be serving pizza slices, since kids tend to love cheese pizza, Stojak said. 

“[We want to] make sure the kids see the military is still around and active,” Stojak said.