Some spring highlights in Orland Park

Originally Posted:  March 17, 2013   The recent storm that dumped about 8 inches of snow on Orland Park may not be indicative of spring being near. But the change to daylight- saving time and with Easter drawing near, the evidence is clear — spring is nearly here (arriving Wednesday).
Another sure sign is the Easter Bunny camping out at Orland Square Mall and also making a special appearance at 10 a.m. March 23 at Centennial Park, 15600 West Ave., for the Hippity Hop Bunny Stop. The event, free for children ages 1 to 9, includes an Easter egg hunt, which will be held, rain or shine. And be sure to look for some “lucky” eggs with special surprises inside.
Spring means spring cleaning, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 23, you can sell your items (or shop, if so inclined) at the village’s Special Recreation Garage Sale. This annual event raises funds for the special rec programs of the village’s recreation and parks department.
It will be held at the Civic Center, 14750 Ravinia Ave., Orland Park, where 89 tables will be available for $27 each until all are reserved. Register at the rec department’s administrative office, 14600 Ravinia Ave., (708) 403-7275; or at the Sportsplex, 11351 159th St., (708) 645-7529. On the day of the event, you may begin setting up your table at 7 a.m.
Spring break from school
Remember that both Orland School District 135 and Consolidated High School District 230 will be on their spring break from March 25 through April 1, with classes resuming April 2, a Tuesday.
If you’re looking for something to do close to home, the village Sportsplex will host its “School’s Out … Fun Is In!” open gym and open soccer program during the week.
From noon to 6 p.m. daily, the Sportsplex features, including the climbing rock, will be available. Fees may apply (it’s free to Sportsplex members). Consider the all-inclusive play package, which includes rock climbing, an open gym and open field play at a discounted fee. Come on in for some fun!
Orland Park garden walk
Spring also means the Open Lands of Orland Park Garden Walk. The walk committee is seeking six to seven outstanding gardens at single-family homes to showcase from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 23.
The walk is not a competition and yards may be of any size, planted and maintained either professionally or by the homeowner, according to Open Lands of Orland Park.
Residents who would like to have their yards/gardens considered to be on the tour are asked to send photos of their property along with their name, address, subdivision and phone number to Open Lands Garden Walk, 14700 Ravinia Ave., Orland Park, IL 60462 or email to pvlazny@orland-park.il.us no later than April 15.
The garden walk is dedicated to the memory of Shirley Fazio, a longtime village commission member and community volunteer. Its proceeds benefit Open Lands of Orland Park. For more information, please call Patty Vlazny at (708) 403-6145.