Huntley prepares for Cinco De Mayo carnival after forced early shutdown of similar carnival in Lake in the Hills

HUNTLEY—Windy City Amusements, a provider of carnival rides, games, and foods to various festivals across the state, announced that it will be in the village to celebrate Cinco De Mayo at More Brewing Company (13980 Automall Drive) on May 3 to May 5.

As some residents may be aware, that same carnival provider made news headlines the weekend of April 26 after festivities were forced to be shut down early following an “unexpected surge in attendance” and a “significant number of unchaperoned teenagers, with intentions to disrupt and cause trouble,” according to a statement made by the Algonquin/Lake in the Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Windy City Amusements was the carnival provider for the Cabin Fever Spring Carnival hosted by the Algonquin/Lake in the Hills Chamber of Commerce.

The festival was supposed to take place on April 26 through April 28, however, on April 27, at approximately 6:28 p.m., the Lake in the Hills Police Department began receiving 9-1-1 calls regarding numerous fights at the carnival and surrounding parking lot in the 100 block of North Randall Road. Officers responded to the scene where very large crowds had gathered and fights were occurring. It was determined that it would be in the best interest of the safety of all attendees to shut down the carnival.

Law enforcement from surrounding jurisdictions, including the Huntley Police Department, assisted LITH police officers to disperse the crowds and clear the area. No injuries were reported to authorities in regards to the incident.

Additionally, the LITH Police Department stated that there is no information or evidence at this time to corroborate social media claims alleging shots having been fired and/or stabbings having taken place at the carnival.

Following the incident, the LITH Police Department advised the Algonquin/LITH Chamber of Commerce that it would be in the best interest of public safety to not reopen the carnival on April 28.

“This decision was made with the utmost consideration for the well-being of our community members and attendees. We understand the disappointment this may bring, especially to those who were eagerly anticipating a day of fun and enjoyment,” stated the Algonquin/Lake in the Hills Chamber of Commerce on its Facebook page. “We extend our deepest apologies to all those who had their visit cut short and to those who planned to attend the Carnival today (April 28) and are unable to do so. We also extend our sympathy to the neighboring businesses affected by the disruptions caused by individuals with malicious intentions.”

The Cinco De Mayo Huntley Carnival will start at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 3, and go until 10 p.m. On Saturday, festivities will start at 1 p.m. and end at 10 p.m. The Sunday carnival will go from 1 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Windy City Amusements is also the carnival provider for the Huntley Fall Fest that will take place in September.