Antioch Spring Carnival set for Mother's Day weekend

Joe LaFleur can't remember a time when there wasn't a spring carnival in Antioch.

As president of the 885 Civic Club and chairman for the annual bash, LaFleur guesses the Mother's Day weekend event has gone on for more than 25 years.

"Probably longer," he says.

The club's yearly Spring Carnival will run from May 6-9 in downtown Antioch.

One might think having a carnival the same weekend as moms are honored might not be the best plan. But LaFleur, of Fox Lake, says you would be surprised.

"We really get a good turnout, especially on that Sunday," he said. "I don't get it really, but it works."

The event is held in the municipal parking lot off Toft Street. It's the biggest fundraiser of the year for the 45-member club.

"We average somewhere between $8,000 to $11,000 raised depending on weather," LeFleur said. "We man the ticket booth. There are rides for adults, teen and kids."

Event hours are 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, 1 to 11 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. to close on Sunday.

The motto of the Civic Club is "Build Today a Better Tomorrow," LeFleur said.

"We are a group of community-minded people that plan activities that raise money for charity," he said.

The group gives funds to PADS, the American Cancer Society, scholarships for students in Antioch Community High School District 117, Open Arms Mission and others, LeFleur said.

The club is always looking for new members. They meet monthly in one of the member's homes.

For more information about the carnival or the club, call LaFleur at (847) 973-0390.