Hometown Fest Carnival
Palatine's Annual Summer Carnival
Windy City Amusements has carnival rides and games for all ages to enjoy. Ride the thrill rides and try your luck to win a prize at one of the games on the midway. Younger children will love the slide, train, and carousel.
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Information on rides and height requirements can be found at Windy City Amusement’s website.
2026 Hometown Fest Carnival Schedule
Wednesday, July 1
Hours: TBD
Wristband Hours: TBD
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Thursday, July 2
Hours: 5pm - 10:30pm
Wristband Hours ($35/person): 5:30pm - 9:30pm
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Friday, July 3
Hours: 1pm - 10:30pm
Wristband Hours ($30/person): 1pm - 5pm
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Saturday, July 4
Hours: 1pm - 10:30pm
Wristband Hours ($30/person): 1pm - 5pm
Wristband Hours ($35/person): 5:30pm - 9:30pm
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Sunday, July 5
Hours: 1pm - 5pm
Wristband Hours ($30/person): 1pm - 5pm
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Carnival Hours and Wristbands are managed by Windy City Amusements and are subject to change.
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To contact us or if you have any questions about the carnival or Hometown Fest, please email hometownfest@palatinejaycees.org.
Kathleen Blanck Memorial Carnival (KBMC)
Join us on Thursday, July 2nd; individuals with disabilities and their families are invited to enjoy complimentary rides. The Kathleen Blanck Memorial Carnival gives an opportunity for those who need it, to attend the carnival prior to opening to the public in a quieter environment.​​​
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Pre-registration is now available - CLICK HERE!
In 1997, the Palatine Jaycees Hometown Fest co-chairs Karen Blanck and Todd Pearson and carnival committee chair Wendy Copeland were inspired by Karen’s sister Kathleen to offer an opportunity to those with developmental and physical disabilities to enjoy the carnival for free and without an overwhelming crowd.
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Since its inception, Windy City Amusements has provided complimentary access to most rides for the attendees and their caregivers. After Kathleen passed away in 2012, the Jaycees renamed the event to the Kathleen Blanck Memorial Carnival.