A popular event returns for the first time since debuting in 2019 at Orland Square.
People can visit with several animals at the Mini Petting Zoo on Sept. 24 in Orland Park.
“People should just come out and enjoy the event. Get to know some animals that maybe you’ve never met before and see Orland Square. If you haven’t been here for a while, you might be surprised at some of the new stores we’ve added in the last few years. We’re looking forward to seeing families,” said Cathy Mein, director of marketing for Orland Square.
The mall, which is owned and operated by Simon, welcomes back Animal Quest, which provided animals for the inaugural Mini Petting Zoo.
“There’ll be between eight and 10 barnyard favorites,” said Mein, who added that animals could include goats, tortoises, Pekin ducks and guinea pigs.
“Kids can get used to petting them and get introduced to them. The keepers that do the show are able to explain all about the animals so that the kids learn something as well.”
Animal Quest, which was founded by husband and wife Steve and Jessica Reedy in 2011, describes itself as having grown from approximately 15 small animals (mostly reptiles) in a small apartment to more than 170 animals (mostly rescues) of various sizes on a five-acre farm in Lake County.
The company is billed as having performed at approximately 10,000-plus shows or events in the Chicago suburbs as well as Wisconsin and Indiana.
A cash donation is requested to check out the Mini Petting Zoo.
“The donation goes to Simon Youth Foundation, a nonprofit that’s based in Indianapolis but raises money for scholarships for local students that are in the areas where Simon have their malls. The funds are distributed locally,” said Mein of Tinley Park.
“We know our shoppers and the residents of this community love animals. They enjoy meeting animals and learning about them. We want to give the community what they want to see and what they want to be involved in,” Mein said.
“We’re actually working on some things for next year so there’ll be some new animal organizations. That’s something we’re focusing on for next summer and next fall.”
Other Orland Square events include Boo Bash, which includes face painting and gift bags, from 3 to 6 p.m. Oct. 27 in the Upper Level Von Maur Wing while Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting Party starts at 5 p.m. Nov. 11 outside by the 30-foot tree near The Cheesecake Factory and includes a procession to the indoor Santa set.
Mini Petting Zoo
When: 1-3 p.m. Sept. 24
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Where: Orland Square, 288 Orland Square Drive, Lower Level H & M Wing, Orland Park
Tickets: $2
Information: 708-349-1647; facebook.com/orlandsquaremall
Jessi Virtusio is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.