Lemurs Toast to Harry Caray with Chicago Style Hot Dogs (Sort of)

Brookfield, IL - A conspiracy of lemurs celebrated the annual “Toast to Harry Caray” on Feb. 29 at Brookfield Zoo, in memory of the legendary Hall of Fame baseball announcer.

Ring-tailed lemurs Lily, Marigold and Daffodil and mongoose lemurs Raul and Jose were treated to peanuts and popcorn served in mini Cubs helmets as they toasted with apple juice, according to the Chicago Zoological Society, which runs Brookfield Zoo.

Nutritious primate biscuits shaped like hot dogs were served to the lemurs on buns, along with lemur-approved replicas of Chicago-style accompaniments. Yellow bell peppers took the place of mustard, chopped and sliced apples stood in for onions and tomatoes, and cucumbers served as pickles, with diced green peppers replicating relish, according to CZS.

Hamill Family Play Zoo lemur habitat was transformed into a mini Wrigley Field with outfield bleachers and an ivy-covered brick wall painted backdrop.

The official “Toast to Harry Caray” will take place at 6:30 p.m. March 1 at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse in River North in Chicago. Sports celebrities will be on hand, including Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg, White Sox legend Ron Kittle and Super Bowl XX MVP Richard Dent.

The celebration will be broadcast live on WGN Radio’s “Roe Conn Show.”