Category: Event Round-Up

Broad art museum at night, lit up from the inside

September Events Round-Up

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

September is here and campus has come roaring back to life! If you and your family are looking for activities to kick off the academic year in style, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these upcoming events for you and your family, and use the links below to learn more and register where required.

Campus Events

September 9 – MSU Museum Fall Opening Celebration: Celebrate the start of the fall semester at the MSU Museum from 4:00-7:00 p.m. with the opening of new exhibitions including Reality Check and Gaawii Eta-Go Aawizinoo Gaawiye Mkakoons / It’s Not Just a Quill Box. Register for free!

September 17 – BealFest: Mark your calendars from 4:00-7:00 p.m. for Beal’s annual fall celebration! Details are TBD, but you can count on a fun day full of activities in a beautiful campus space. Check back for updates.

September 18 – MSU Broad Art Museum Fall Opening Party: Join MSU’s Broad Art Museum and MSU Federal Credit Union from 6:00-10:00 p.m. for a museum-wide party that’s perfect for all ages. Check out our newest exhibitions while enjoying live performances, art-making activities—like screen printing your own tote bag—lawn games, and more. Register for free!

September 23 – Beal Footprints: Fall Blooms and Foliage: Join Beal in a walk, exploring the garden as it begins its transition from summer to fall. The event is from 12:10-1:00 p.m. What a great way to spend your lunch break! Register for free!

Ongoing – Spartan Athletics: There are plenty of opportunities to cheer on the Spartans at home events all month, including women’s and men’s soccer, football, field hockey, women’s volleyball, cross country, and women’s golf. Ticket purchases are required for most athletic events.

Learning Opportunities with MSU HR

The following courses are available through the MSU Human Resources Organization and Professional Development team. Register through the EBS Portal using the “Courses for Employees at MSU” tile and leverage your Ed Assist benefit!

September 16 – Bystander Intervention: This one-hour interactive course, meeting virtually from 1:00-2:00 p.m., is designed to provide participants with strategies to prevent and interrupt problematic behavior associated with gender-based discrimination or harassment in the workplace.

September 17 – Roadmap to Retirement: If you are an MSU faculty or staff member and you have decided to retire within a year or two, you may want to consider attending the Roadmap to Retirement class. This half-day workshop, meeting in person from 8:30 a.m. to noon, covers a range of topics critical to your successful retirement.

September 23 – Everything DiSC Agile EQ: Available in person from 8:30 a.m. to noon, this course teaches participants to read the emotional and interpersonal needs of a situation and respond accordingly. Register through the EBS Portal and leverage your Ed Assist benefit!

September 29-October 1 – Getting Things Done: Getting Things Done is a three-day virtual program meeting from 9:00-11:30 a.m. each day, teaching skills to manage the constant flow of requests, tasks, and interruptions that face employees at all levels of an organization.

Greater Lansing Family-Friendly Events

Find dozens of family-friendly events happening in the Greater Lansing area in September and all year long at Lansing.org, where you’ll find farmers markets, festivals, car shows, and more.

September 9-13 – Charlotte Frontier Days: This annual event offers a variety of fun activities including a parade, rodeo, arts and crafts show, and more. View the full festival schedule and plan to check it out!

September 16-19 – Michigan BluesFest: Michigan BluesFest is an annual festival held in Old Town Lansing, bringing people together through the shared love of Blues Music. This festival has been a Lansing staple for over two decades and continues to be a Lansing favorite. Enjoy a weekend of energy, excitement, music, and coming together again as a community, where we can reconnect with old friends and make new ones.

September 17-20 – 517 Hispanic Heritage Weekend: Head to Downtown Lansing for a weekend of culture, community and celebration! All weekend long, Downtown comes alive with events, including a Wellness & Financial Empowerment Seminar, Latin Dance Class & Mixer, and a soulful Jazz Night—activating the corridor with energy, pride, and cultura. View the full schedule and RSVP for free!

September 25 – Movie Night in the Park: Bring your blankets and chairs to Towner Road Park in Haslett to watch a movie, spend time outdoors, and maybe indulge in a food truck treat! Event starts at 6:00 p.m. with the screening starting an hour before sunset.

September 26-27 – Dance by the River Powwow: More than an annual event, the powwow, a free event at Adado Riverfront Park in Lansing, brings Native families, elders, youth, artists, vendors, and community members together to reconnect, build relationships and strengthen cultural ties.

A bunch of yellow flowers and a clear blue sky in the MSU campus gardens.

August Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

August is here, and summer is heating up! If you and your family are looking for activities to make the most of this summer, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these upcoming events for you and your family, and use the links below to learn more and register where required.

Campus Events

August 9 – Garden Edition: Deep-Rooted with Beal Botanical Garden: Join Applied Ethnobotanist and Education Director of the Beal Botanical Gardens, Maeve Bassett, to learn about the social, historical, and political narratives within plants in the garden and artwork in the MSU Broad Art Collection.

August 13 – Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Forest Bathing: Join Beal Community and Sustainability Coordinator, Angelica Bajos, at the Beal Botanical Garden for a summertime rest. Take time to connect with the garden and indulge your wellbeing through forest bathing invitations.

August 16 – Music and the Garden: The MSU College of Music and Beal Botanical Garden invite you to this year’s Music and the Garden series, an outdoor celebration of music, nature, and community. Hands-on activities take place prior to a performance by an MSU College of Music student ensemble, and guests are welcome to bring chairs or blankets. August features Tayovan Trio.

Open August 22 – We Are This Land: Meditations on the Great American Experiment: Visit this new large-scale group exhibition that occupies nearly all the main galleries at the MSU Broad Art Museum. The exhibition is organized around five guiding topics: civics, history, family and kinship, map-making, and care for the environment. This approach creates a forum for open dialogue and engagement while offering critical perspectives on our nation’s place within broader historical timelines and the wider world.

August 26 – Meet the Spartans: Visit Spartan Stadium this August for an event all things MSU!  Here you will find opportunities to take photos with Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald, get team autographs, meet the Michigan State Dance and Cheer teams and enjoy opportunities to take photos with Sparty and Zeke throughout the evening!

Learning Opportunities 

August 6 – TIAA: Live long and prosper: Your guide to understanding longevity: This TIAA webinar teaches you how to think about your longevity across financial, physical, mental and social dimensions; longevity’s impacts on financial caregiving, and how having longevity literacy can impact your retirement planning. 

August 12 – Women Talk Money: All about the Roth: Choosing an IRA can help shape your tax picture today and in retirement. But between Roth, traditional, rollovers, and conversions, navigating your options can feel like a lot. This webinar from Fidelity is here to break it all down to help you feel confident in how your IRA (or IRAs) fit into your plan.

August 12 – Everything DiSC: Productive Conflict: This in-person course provides learners with techniques to improve self-awareness around conflict behaviors. Apply DiSC assessment results to better understand our personal responses in conflict, and teach participants how to curb destructive thoughts and behaviors so that conflict can become more productive, improving workplace results and relationships. Pre-work will be sent and must be completed before the course begins. 

August 12 – Identify and Maximize Your Strengths, Part 2: Unlock the Full 34: Exploring your CliftonStrengths results does not have to end with the top 5 talents. Here, you will Identify individual talents utilizing the CliftonStrengths Full 34 Report, evaluate the impact of identified talents on the individual, the work and relationships, and determine how to further develop natural talents into strengths utilizing the tools provided. NOTE: This session is designed exclusively for those who have previously attended an offering of Identify and Maximize Your Strengths through OPD. 

August 13 – Roadmap to Retirement: If you are an MSU employee, and you have decided to retire within a year or two, this half-day workshop covers a range of topics critical to your successful retirement.

August 18 – Take control of your financial life: 5 steps to save money and manage debt: This TIAA webinar demonstrates how you can effectively set goals, balance your budget, and use debt wisely. 

August 20 – A closer look at the costs of long-term care: In this two-part Fidelity webinar on health care costs in retirement, learn more about strategies to financially prepare for long-term care.

August 20 – The Spartan Experience: This training is grounded in real MSU examples, team activities, and self-reflection. Whether you work in student services, facilities, finance, or academic support, you’ll walk away with tangible strategies to elevate your service mindset and make a positive impact, one interaction at a time.

August 20 – Creating and Sustaining a Positive Workplace: This in-person course provides humorous insight into the seven habits of negativity, including tips to stop gossip, techniques for getting along with others, and strategies to reap the many benefits of a positive and engaged workforce.

August 25 – SET for Success Series Part 2: Ergonomics: Regardless of your role and daily job tasks at MSU, everyone benefits from an ergonomically sound workplace. This zoom session will explore the basics of ergonomics, injury prevention, how to set up your workstation, standing desk use, and stretches/exercises to help reduce the risk of work-related pain. The recommendations in the class can be applied in your on-campus or home office.

Family-Friendly Events

Various Dates in August  – Lansing Lugnuts Home Game: Head to Jackson Field and “Go Nuts” cheering on the Lansing Lugnuts, where every game brings a fun and lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening at the ballpark for fans of all ages.

August 8 – Young Eagle Rally (Free Airplane Rides for Kids): Young Eagles Aviation Day at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Chapter 55, will offer free airplane rides for kids 8-17. A number of pilot volunteers will be there to give these rides and introduce the kids to the world of aviation and inspire them to explore careers in the field. Note: All event days are weather permitting. 

Recurring Fridays and Saturdays – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones. 

Greater Lansing Area Events 

August 3 – 8 – Ingham County Fair: The 172nd Ingham County Fair is here! Visit the fairgrounds for the best family friendly entertainment including rides, games, and food for all! 

August 6 and 20 – East Lansing Moonlight Film Festival: The Moonlight Film Festival is back for the 2026 season! Movies are shown at Valley Court Park and start at dusk (approximately 9 p.m. in August). This month’s movies are Labrynth and Super Mario Galaxy.

August 6, 1, and 20 – Summer Concerts on the Square: Summer is wrapping up, and now is the chance to attend the last few Summer Concerts on the Square in Charlotte! New bands will play recurring weekly on Thursdays until August 20. 

August 8 and 22 – Majestic Morning Yoga: Join the Lansing Free Yoga Project and learn from yoga instructors from across Lansing at the Fish Ladder Music Park as they lead you in an inspirational yoga practice! This beginner focused class is designed to get you moving in the morning. 

August 15 – Old Town ArtFeast: Mark your calendar and get ready for a day filled with creativity, community, and culinary delights at Old Town ArtFeast! This beloved event brings together two of life’s greatest joys- stunning art and delicious food- right in the heart of one of Lansing’s most vibrant neighborhoods. 

Recurring Tuesdays – DeWitt Farmers Market: The 2026 Downtown DeWitt Farmer’s Market is being held every Tuesday until October! Here you will find  the freshest produce, locally farmed meats, fresh eggs, delicious baked goods, and locally produced foods. 

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. 

Saturdays in July – Meridian Farmers’Market: The summer schedule is here for the Meridian Farmers Market! Stop by every Saturday this month for farm-fresh ingredients, specialty foods, handmade crafts and more.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities. 

Looking to cool off from the hot August sun? Check out these nearby swimming pools and lakes to dive into summer! 

July Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

July is here, and summer is heating up! If you and your family are looking for activities to make the most of this summer, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these upcoming events for you and your family, and use the links below to learn more and register where required.

Campus Events

Wednesdays in July – MSU Summer Carillon Concert Series: Bring a picnic, chair, or blanket to Beaumont Tower to experience musical talent in one of the most beautiful locations on MSU’s campus! This series is open to the public, and will go through the first week of August.

Most Wednesdays in July –  Move in the Garden:  Need a midday recharge? This free outdoor movement program combines stretching, strengthening, flow, and relaxation movements to support overall mobility. Classes meet in the Beal Botanical Garden, and you can meet your instructor by the pond. Class will not be held on July 1, 2026.

July 5, 12, 19 and 26 – Abrams Planetarium Family Show: Under the Weather: Visit the Abrams Planetarium this July to join The Zula Patrol on an adventure through space as they collect weather samples and search for their missing friend, Gorga, and learn fascinating facts about weather on Earth and beyond! 

July 9 – Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Botany by Bethany: Join Head Horticulturalist and avid plant lover, Bethany Troy to learn about her favorite plants at Beal, covering her tips and tricks of the trade for healthy vibrant plants. 

July 11 – Chill Out with Art: If you are looking for a fun and relaxing summer event, come to the MSU Broad Art Museum for their “Chill Out with Art” event. Come explore exhibitions, explore your artistic side, and celebrate art, food, and community.

July 22 – Beal Footprints: Marvelous Malvaceae (Mallows): Meet at the garden pond and join Beal Head Horticulturist, Bethany Troy, on a tour of plants in the mallow family. Learn about care, uses, and how to identify plants in this diverse and surprising plant family. 

Learning Opportunities 

Fridays in July – Spartan Legacies Retirement Transition Program: Starting July 10, MSU’s free virtual Spartan Legacies retirement transition program will be offered every Friday through August 14. Led by Dr. Darryl Steele, the six-week discussion series helps employees and recent retirees navigate the emotional, social, and practical aspects of retirement. Questions can be directed to eap@msu.edu.

Available in July – SPARTANfit Summer Deal: SPARTANfit is celebrating summer with a limited time offer for MSU faculty, staff, and their partners. From June 1 to July 31, these Spartans can receive a Comprehensive Fitness Assessment for only $20 (50% off). These supportive assessments offer a snapshot of one’s physical health through resting and exercising tests, personalized fitness profiles, and support with goal setting. Book your fitness assessment in Microsoft Bookings no later than July 31 to score this deal. 

July 7 – Investing for Beginners: Start Your Wealth Journey:  Starting your career can be both very exciting and overwhelming. In this webinar, you will learn what to look for in job-related benefits packages, how short-term spending plans support long-term goals, the importance of building an emergency fund, and more. 

July 9 – Quarterly Economic and Market Update: Hear from TIAA’s experts in the Wealth Chief Investment Office about key drivers of the markets and economy that are impacting investors. 

July 9 – Managing Meetings: This in-person course is designed to help you plan and lead more effective, professional meetings in today’s fast-paced workplace. Here, you will learn how to reduce unproductive meetings, improve coordination and follow-through, and strengthen team productivity and engagement. 

July 9 – Fidelity Webinar: Making Early Retirement a Reality: Join the Insights from Fidelity Wealth Management team on July 9 to explore the key financial, social, and emotional aspects of early retirement. Learn how to evaluate your savings, plan for healthcare before Medicare, prepare for unexpected life changes, and build a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

July 16 – Fidelity Webinar: Starting Small: How To Start Investing for the Price of a Coffee: Discover simple ways to start investing with just a few dollars. Learn about Fidelity account options, beginner-friendly investment strategies, and tools that can help you research investments and place trades as you build your portfolio.

July 22 – Steps to help secure your income in retirement: A mid career check-in: Take stock of where you are at this critical checkpoint and use retirement-saving strategies to better balance competing financial priorities. 

July 22 – Introduction to Process Mapping: This course introduces the fundamentals of process improvement, helping learners build the knowledge and confidence to get started. Participants will learn key terminology, process mapping basics, best practices for success, and how to create a process map.

July 23 – Promapp, Interactive Process Creation: This course builds on the foundations of process mapping, helping learners create and manage processes in Nintex Promapp. Participants will also learn process standards and writing best practices for developing clear, consistent, and engaging documentation. 

July 29 and 30 – Spartan Excellence Learning Series: This two day series equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to improve processes, strengthen accountability, and build a culture of continuous improvement. Grounded in the principles of Operational Excellence, the program emphasizes aligning improvements with MSU’s mission, values, and the 2030 Strategic Plan.  

July 30 – Grammar Refresher: This in-person course is here to help you improve your grammar and usage skills to communicate more clearly and professionally. Here, you will learn how to avoid common errors, use pronouns and verb forms correctly, and apply punctuation with confidence.

Family-Friendly Events

July 7 and 8 – Zoo Days at Potter Park: Don’t miss this special Zoo Days promotion at Potter Park Zoo, where admission is just $2 and parking is free for visitors from any county. Enjoy animal encounters, family-friendly character meet-and-greets, hands-on activities, and more while making summer memories with your family and friends.

July 10, 17, and 24 – Family Art Studio Days at the Broad Art Museum: Family Art Studio is a free drop-in art experience held every Friday this summer, inviting families to create, explore, and experiment together. Enjoy hands-on art stations and creative activities in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Greater Lansing Area Events 

Wednesdays in June – Meridian Township Summer Concert Series: Soak in the warm summer nights and visit Marketplace on the Green for the Meridian Township Summer Concert Series! Visit the website to see who is playing and when, every Wednesday in July. 

Various Dates in July – Lansing Lugnuts Home Game: Head to Jackson Field and “Go Nuts” cheering on the Lansing Lugnuts, where every game brings a fun and lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening at the ballpark for fans of all ages.

July 3 – City of Lansing Fourth of July Parade: Visit Downtown Lansing for a day of Independence Day festivities featuring the Independence Day Parade, Concert on the Capitol Steps, Block Party at Lugnuts Stadium, and a patriotic concert at Adado Riverfront Park. The celebration concludes with a spectacular fireworks display.

July 10, 11, & 12 – Capital City Comic Con: Capital City Comic Con is a three-day celebration of comics, collectibles, cosplay, gaming, and pop culture. Join fellow fans in downtown Lansing for panels, family activities, special events, and more.

Recurring Tuesdays – DeWitt Farmers Market: The 2026 Downtown DeWitt Farmer’s Market is being held every Tuesday until October! Here you will find  the freshest produce, locally farmed meats, fresh eggs, delicious baked goods, and locally produced foods. 

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. 

Saturdays in July – Meridian Farmers’Market: The summer schedule is here for the Meridian Farmers Market! Stop by every Saturday this month for farm-fresh ingredients, specialty foods, handmade crafts and more.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities. 

Looking to cool off from the hot July sun? Check out these nearby swimming pools and lakes to dive into summer! 

June Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

Summer is right around the corner, which means it is time for June events! This month holds many virtual and in-person opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out to celebrate the start of the new season. Click the links below to explore future events and register if required.

Pride Month Events:

June 5 and 6 – Kalamazoo Pride 2026: All proceeds from Kalamazoo Pride support OutFront Kalamazoo’s work providing vital programs, services, and resources to the LGBTQIA+ community all year long.

June 6 and 7 – Motor City Pride 2026: Motor City Pride is more than just a festival — it’s a vibrant celebration of music, talent and diversity. With four dynamic stages showcasing both local talent and world-renowned LGBTQIA+ artists, the entertainment lineup is as diverse as the community we represent.

June 13 – East Lansing Pride: Come celebrate PRIDE in the heart of downtown East Lansing! The fifth annual East Lansing PRIDE will take place along Albert Avenue between Abbot Road and M.A.C. Avenue.

June 20 and 21 – Grand Rapids Pride Festival: Celebrate the West Michigan 2-SLGBTQ+ community and support local businesses, organizations, and artists. You’ll find 150+ vendors, a beer garden (including non-alcoholic beverages), activities for all ages, food trucks, a sensory space, and local, statewide, and nationally recognized performers!

June 27 – Lansing Pride 2026: Lansing Pride is Mid-Michigan’s largest LGBTQ+ festival, celebrating visibility, inclusion, and community. The annual event brings together tens-of-thousands of attendees for a free full day of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, local vendors, food and beverage options, and a vibrant showcase of community partners.

Campus Events

June 5 – Copper Beech Tree 80th Birthday Party: The beloved Copper Beech Tree at the heart of the Department of Radiology’s Healing Gardens is turning 80 years old this year! Visit to celebrate this magnificent octogenarian tree while the gardens are in full bloom. There will be live music in the rose garden, family-friendly games and activities, and of course birthday cake! Plus, a special message from Radiology Department Chair, Dr. Mark DeLano.

June 10 – Move in the Garden: Need a midday recharge? This free outdoor movement program combines stretching, strengthening, flow, and relaxation movements to support overall mobility. Sessions meet most Wednesdays from June 10 to September 30, 2026 in the Beal Botanical Garden.

June 13 – Conjuring Kinship: Deciphering Octavia: Join Beal Botanical Garden and Dr. Kinitra Brooks in a community event diving deep into the concepts of hope, Afrofuturism, and conjure through Octavia Butler’s Kindred.

June 15 to 19 – MSU Juneteenth Celebration: This year marks the 6th annual Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration at Michigan State University! This year’s theme, Beyond Freedom: Building Futures, Protecting Our Past and Activating Change, aims to celebrate and recognize the contributions of past and contemporary artists, scientists and advocates who work tirelessly to center Black excellence in the American fabric. The Juneteenth events at MSU will include components focused on voting, entrepreneurship and storytelling. Events will run from June 15 through June 19.

June 28 – Music and the Garden Go Music Trio: The MSU College of Music and Beal Botanical Garden invite you to this year’s Music and the Garden series, an outdoor celebration of music, nature, and community.

Weekends in June – Abrams Planetarium: Chasing the Ghost Particles: At the heart of Antarctica, the IceCube detector uses elusive particles called neutrinos to explore the universe’s most extreme phenomena, including exploding stars and black holes. Through stunning simulations and a journey deep beneath the Antarctic ice, this show at the Abrams Planetarium demonstrates how scientists use these “ghost particles” to uncover secrets of the cosmos from one of the most remote places on Earth.

Learning Opportunities

June 10 – Women Talk Money: Deep dive on HSAs—help make them work for you: This webinar through Fidelity breaks down the ins and outs of how HSAs can be great for health care costs today and help strengthen your long-term financial picture, and show you how to help maximize your account at every stage of life.

June 10 – TIAA: Set Your Retirement Date: Understand your factors to get you to your goal: If you are starting to think seriously about retirement, this course is perfect for insights on how you can create your retirement vision, understand what’s ahead, estimate expenses and income, and complete your plan.

June 10 and 11 – Student Supervision Series: Hiring student employees benefits both the student and the department. This series walks you through student employment policies, required procedures, and online hiring processes while helping you set clear performance expectations and connect students’ academic interests to their work. You’ll also explore effective strategies for leading and motivating student employees.

June 16 and 17 – Crucial Conversations for Accountability: This two-day course helps participants build accountability skills that strengthen trust, improve performance, and increase team effectiveness.

June 18 – The Spartan Experience: This training is grounded in real MSU examples, team activities, and self-reflection. Whether you work in student services, facilities, finance, or academic support, you’ll walk away with tangible strategies to elevate your service mindset and make a positive impact, one interaction at a time.

June 24 – Creating and Sustaining a Positive Workplace: This course provides humorous insight into the seven habits of negativity, including tips to stop gossip, techniques for getting along with others, and strategies to reap the many benefits of a positive and engaged workforce.

June 25 – TIAA: Identity Theft: Safeguarding Your Finances: Whether it is a phishing email, fraudulent phone call, or fake social media profile, identity theft is a growing threat. In this webinar hosted by TIAA, you will learn common tactics used by identity thieves, steps to prevent identity theft, and what to do if your personal information is compromised.

June 25 – Identify and Maximize Your Strengths: Tap into your unique talents and complete the CliftonStrengths Assessment. Learn more about your natural patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving and how it applies to your role in the workplace. Use your research to express what you do best and grow your overall confidence.

Family-Friendly Events

June 6 – Family Day: SHINE: First Saturday of the month means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum! This month, discover how light moves in art. Join in on making art that invites light to filter, bounce, and shine, inspired by the exhibition: Jan Tichy: Darkness.

Recurring Weekends – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones.

Greater Lansing Area Events

Various Dates in June – Lansing Lugnuts Home Game: Head to Jackson Field and “Go Nuts” cheering on the Lansing Lugnuts, where every game brings a fun and lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening at the ballpark for fans of all ages.

June 4, 11, 18 and 25 – Summer Concerts on the Square: Summer is almost here, which means Summer Concerts on the Square in Charlotte! New bands will play recurring weekly on Thursdays until the end of August.

Recurring Tuesdays – DeWitt Farmers Market: The 2026 Downtown DeWitt Farmer’s Market is being held every Tuesday until October! Here you will find the freshest produce, locally farmed meats, fresh eggs, delicious baked goods, and locally produced foods.

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods.

Saturdays in June – Meridian Farmers’ Market: The summer schedule is here for the Meridian Farmers Market! Stop by every Saturday this month for farm-fresh ingredients, specialty foods, handmade crafts and more.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities.

May Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

May Events Round-Up 

It is warming up this spring in East Lansing, and that means it is time for May events! This month holds many virtual and in-person opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out to celebrate the start of the new season.

Campus Events

Various dates in May: Abrams Planetarium: Black Holes: Discover the fascinating world of black holes and galaxy evolution in this engaging planetarium experience, where cutting-edge science meets stunning visuals. Learn how researchers combine observations, simulations, and innovative tools to explore black hole formation, presented in a way that’s both impressive and easy to understand. 

Various Dates in May: Home Baseball and Softball Games: Come cheer on the Michigan State Spartans Baseball and Softball teams at a home game this May! 

May 16 and 17: Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Show: Join UAB at the Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Show at the MSU Union Grounds (49 Abbot Rd). Enjoy one-of-a-kind, handmade products from hundreds of local artists and small businesses. 

May 27 – Beal Footprints: Beal as a Living Landscape: Join a guided tour of W. J. Beal Botanical Garden and explore its evolving landscape from pre-settlement days to its future vision. Led by Alan Prather, this talk highlights 150 years of changing relationships with the land and the garden’s enduring mission to serve the community. 

Learning Opportunities 

May 7: TIAA More Psychology: Beyond the Numbers: Money decisions are often driven less by logic and more by emotions, habits, and personal experiences. This webinar explores how mindset shapes financial behavior and offers practical insights to help you build confidence, understand spending patterns, and align your choices with long-term goals.

May 7 – Taming the Email Beast: Take control of your inbox in this virtual workshop designed to help professionals manage overwhelming email with a proven system for organization, prioritization, and reducing clutter. Learn strategies that work across platforms like Outlook and Gmail to boost productivity, improve communication, and feel more in control of your daily workflow.

May 12 – The Power of Habit: Learn how habits are created and how to replace undesirable habits with productive ones. You will learn how to spot your habit loop, turn bad days into good data, and create habits that get the results you want.

May 13: Women Talk Money: 6 steps to help maximize your retirement savings: Saving for retirement can be especially important for women due to unique financial challenges and longer life expectancies. This session provides a clear six-step approach to help you understand your options, build confidence, and maximize your retirement savings.

May 19 – Trauma Informed Leadership: Join the Trauma Services Training Network to learn the definitions of trauma, the signs and symptoms of trauma, and the ways that trauma may manifest in the workplace. Review the principles of trauma informed practices, with an emphasis on approaches for leadership, including practical, trauma-informed strategies for supervisors managing difficult situations.

May 19: TIAA Finance for New Grads: Starting your career is exciting, but building a strong financial foundation early is key to long-term success. This session covers essential skills like understanding job benefits, managing spending, choosing between pre-tax and Roth contributions, and building an emergency fund. 

May 19 and 20 – Spartan Excellence Learning Series: This two-day program equips employees with practical skills to improve processes, solve problems, and build a culture of continuous improvement aligned with the university’s mission and strategic goals. Through hands-on modules, learn Lean principles, structured problem-solving, and strategies to implement sustainable, collaborative changes that enhance efficiency and the overall Spartan experience.

(4 Day Program) May 20, May 27 June 3, and June 10 – Breaking Free From Stress: This course explores how thoughts and perceptions shape our experiences of stress, anxiety, and life challenges, both at work and at home. Participants learn practical principles for becoming less reactive, breaking unhelpful thought patterns, and building greater resilience, self-awareness, and steadiness through change.

May 21 – Everything DiSC Behavior Styles at Work: This course introduces Everything DiSC as a simple tool for understanding different behavioral styles and improving communication and working relationships. Participants complete required pre-work before attending the virtual session.

May 27: How a 529 can fit into your education savings strategy: This webinar explains how 529 plans work, who they’re for, and how they can support your education savings goals at any stage. It also covers investment options, contribution strategies, updated qualified expenses, and how a 529 fits into your broader plan for saving and investing for your children’s future.

Family-Friendly Events

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Friday, Saturday – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones.

May 2: Family Day: Imagine:  First Saturday means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum! Make creative connections with exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the museum. 

May 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 – Abrams Planetarium Family Show: What are Stars? Discover what we’re made of and where it all began in this immersive show at the Abrams Planetarium. Journey through our cosmic origins, from the formation of hydrogen to the creation of carbon and life’s essential molecules, narrated by Andy Serkis.

May 24 – World Turtle Day at the Potter Park Zoo: Celebrate World Turtle Day at Potter Park Zoo with a fun, family-friendly event featuring educational stations, interactive activities, and hands-on learning about turtles. Included with standard admission, this special day highlights the importance of protecting turtles and their role in our ecosystems.

Greater Lansing Area Events

Various Dates in May – Lansing Lugnuts Home Game: Head to Jackson Field and “Go Nuts” cheering on the Lansing Lugnuts, where every game brings a fun and lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening at the ballpark for fans of all ages.

May 16 and 17 – East Lansing Art Festival: The East Lansing Art Festival celebrates over 60 years of bringing high-quality art to the streets of East Lansing. Its mission is to foster community while promoting appreciation for art, culture, and creativity throughout the greater Lansing region.

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. 

Saturdays in May – Meridian Farmers’ Market: The summer schedule is here for the Meridian Farmers Market! Stop by every Saturday in May for farm-fresh ingredients, specialty foods ,handmade crafts and more.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities. 

Celebrate Earth Day at MSU!

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

Earth Day falls on April 22, and is a great reminder to give a little extra care to the planet. While many of us already incorporate sustainable habits into our daily routines, this day is the perfect opportunity to take it a step further. Whether you’re at home or heading into the office, explore these simple tips and resources to live a little greener:

Use the MSU Recycling Center: The MSU Recycling Center always leads the charge for reusable materials at MSU. The center is open seven days a week for drop-off of materials. These materials include books, cardboard, glass, metal, plastics, and more. Read the Public Drop-off Recycling Center Guide to find their hours and what and how to drop things off. 

Join the Waste Warriors: The Surplus Store & Recycling Center’s Waste Warriors program cultivates waste reduction and the utilization of waste as a resource by training and empowering the MSU community to promote these practices among their peers. By becoming a Waste Warrior, you join a group of like-minded staff and faculty from across campus who each pledge to be part of the solution that will lead MSU down the path to zero waste. 

Shop at the MSU Surplus Store: The MSU Surplus Store and Recycling Center rethinks the way the MSU Community disposes of its used materials. Their innovative program allows us to reduce the amount of university material that goes to landfills, keeping MSU green. Shop from a variety of items, including books, electronics, furniture, office equipment, vehicles, and more. Additionally, check out the Community Reuse Program to drop off a wide variety of items for reuse and recycling. 

Join the MSU Arbor Day Annual Tree Planting: On April 24, 2026 at Noon at the northeast patio of Wells Hall by the Red Cedar River, hosted by Infrastructure Planning & Facilities and Landscape Services to support MSU’s sustainability efforts. The first 100 attendees will receive free trees from the campus nursery, and parking is available at Bessey Ramp #2 with access via the footbridges to Wells Hall.

Deep Rooted Tour Series: Join Applied Ethnobotanist and Education Director of the Beal Botanical Gardens, Maeve Bassett, to learn about the social, historical, and political narratives within plants in the garden and artwork in the MSU Broad Art Collection.

Beal Botanical Garden: Earth Day Volunteer Day:  On April 22, get down in the dirt and volunteer with your favorite botanical garden team this Earth Day from 10:00 a.m. to- 2:00 p.m. Beal Botanical Gardens will be hosting an all-hands volunteering extravaganza covering the entire garden, accompanied by music and refreshments! 

Red Cedar Cleanup: On May 1, join fellow Spartans in protecting the iconic Red Cedar River at Michigan State University! Volunteers will help remove litter and debris along the riverbank, supporting local wildlife, improving the campus environment, and making a visible impact on the community.

Use MSU Bikes on Campus: MSU Bikes provides support with commuter resources to help you bike to work with confidence, including a 1-on-1 Bike Commuter Assistance service, which helps you find the safest, lowest-stress route to and from campus to your neighborhood. MSU Bikes also rents bikes to departments for staff to use during the work day through their Department Fleet Services.

Use Sustainable Transportation Methods on Campus: The MSU Office of Sustainability shares many convenient and sustainable transportation options for all, including MSU Bikes or CATA buses to limit emissions from your vehicle. No destination in mind? Explore these campus walking maps to find your new favorite trail!

While Earth Day is just one day out of the year, it can serve as a reminder to jumpstart your sustainability efforts and connection with our planet. Go Green!

April Events Round-Up

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It is officially spring in East Lansing, and that means it is time for April events! This month holds many virtual and in-person opportunities on campus and in the Greater Lansing area to celebrate the start of the new season.

Campus Events

Various Dates in April – Pride Month Events at MSU: Pride Month is dedicated to celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and/or queer, intersex, asexual and two-spirit, or LGBTQIA2S+, communities and histories. It is nationally recognized each year in June, a time when most Spartans have returned home for the summer. Michigan State University celebrates Pride Month in April, allowing Spartans to connect and celebrate pride with one another while they are still on campus.

Various Dates in April –MSU Men’s Baseball Home Game: Come visit the Jeff Ishbia Field at McLane Stadium and cheer on the Michigan State Spartans Men’s Baseball Team at a home game this April!

Various Dates in April – MSU Women’s Softball Home Game: Come visit the Secchia Stadium at MSU to cheer on the Michigan State Spartans Women’s Softball Team at a home game this April!

April 7 – 12 – Clue: Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist at the Wharton Center this April.

April 9 – Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Spring into Conservation: Visit the Beal Botanical Garden for a spring tour exploring our diverse conservation efforts. This tour will focus primarily on Michigan’s rare plants, including our work preserving the state’s only fertile population of the Michigan Monkeyflower.

April 17 – 2026 RCPD Awards Reception: The Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (RCPD) Awards and Appreciation Reception, held at the MSU Multicultural Center, will celebrate the recipients of 10 scholarships and three Spartans (students, faculty/staff, and alumni) who have shown exceptional dedication to advancing belonging and inclusion on our campus.

April 26 – 2026 Izzo Legacy Race: The Izzo family has partnered with Playmakers to host this premium experience on MSU’s campus. The mission is to connect alumni, MSU, and Mid-Michigan communities in a positive celebration of Coach Izzo’s legacy. The events include a 5K Run/Walk, 5K Roll, 1/2 K Walk/Roll, Kids’ Races and a Virtual 5K; all events will focus on fitness, fun, family, Spartan spirit, and charitable giving!

Learning Opportunities

April 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 – Desk Decompress (Upper Body): Gentle movements can help counter the effects of sitting at a desk and leave you feeling more relaxed. Take a few minutes to decompress while stretching and strengthening the neck, shoulders, wrists, and spine. Movements can be done sitting or standing.

April 6, 13, 20, and 27 – Desk Decompress (Full Body): Gentle movements can help counter the effects of sitting at a desk and leave you feeling more relaxed. Take a few minutes to decompress while stretching and strengthening from head to toe. Most movements can be done sitting or standing. Balance exercises may be included.

April 7 – Building Awareness and Understanding the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory (ICS): This April workshop introduces the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory (ICS) to help participants understand their own and others’ communication and conflict resolution styles, improving cross-cultural interactions and problem-solving. Attendance is required for both sessions, with the second part taking place on June 2 to deepen understanding and apply strategies for navigating and resolving conflicts effectively.

April 7, 14, 21, and 28 – Navigating Hard Times with Empathy and Self Compassion: Spartan Resilience Education is offering a free, open session on practicing self-care and self-compassion, focusing on how to support ourselves and others during challenging times. Participants will learn key concepts like empathy vs. sympathy, core elements of self-compassion, and practical strategies to improve emotional support, avoid common mistakes, and enhance overall well-being and work effectiveness.

April 8 – WorkLife Wellbeing- Neurodivergence in the Workplace 2: Supporting Yourself and Others: The neurodivergence umbrella includes many common but often misunderstood disabilities. In this session, dive into how to support yourself and others and build a community inclusive of neurodivergent experiences.

April 12 – Out of the Darkness Walk: Hosted by UHW’s Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the Out of the Darkness Walk is an annual event that brings Spartans together to support suicide prevention and promote mental health awareness.

April 15 – A Guide to Names and Pronouns: This in-person course allows participants to learn appropriate and respectful ways to use names and pronouns to promote gender inclusivity in the workplace. Understand why safety and privacy around gender, names, and pronouns matter, as well as how to recover when mistakes happen.

April 16 – Five Behaviors: Personal Development: This program helps individual contributors become more effective teammates by exploring the Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team model through activities, videos, and discussions. Participants complete a pre-assessment and learn key behaviors that strengthen collaboration, trust, and team effectiveness.

April 16 – Roadmap to Retirement: If you are an MSU faculty or staff member, and you have decided to retire within a year or two, this half-day workshop covers a range of topics critical to your successful retirement.

April 20 – Relaxing Under the Stars: Visit the Abrams Planetarium for Relaxing Under the Stars, a peaceful in-person experience held once a month. Each 50-minute session features a guided constellation tour using the Digistar projection system – perfect for stress relief and mindful relaxation.

April 22 and 23 – Strategic Business Analysis: Turning Requirements into Results: This two-day course builds skills in strategic business analysis, helping participants create clear, actionable requirements that align with organizational goals and deliver meaningful results. Through frameworks, hands-on practice, and stakeholder engagement techniques, learners gain confidence in eliciting, writing, prioritizing, and evaluating requirements for maximum business value.

April 24 – Midday Moves (Hybrid): Take a break from end of the semester stress with a Finals Flex stretch, mobility, and mindful movement routine, designed to leave you feeling more relaxed. Exercises will mostly be standing and on the ground, with seated options provided. Bring an exercise mat or a towel. Join in-person at the MSU Library or over Zoom!

April 29 and 30 – Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue: This program teaches techniques that allow you to make room for different opinions and perspectives, find mutual respect and common purpose, and dialogue openly. With these skills, you’ll not only work with others more effectively, but you can also help foster psychological safety and inclusion.

April 30 – Cultural Competency I: This course focuses on building cultural competence and inclusivity skills aligned with MSU’s commitment to fostering a safe, respectful, and welcoming workplace for all employees. Participants will develop self-awareness, challenge biases and stereotypes, and practice communication strategies like the CARES model to improve interactions and effectively address workplace concerns.

Family-Friendly Events

April 1 – 30 – MSU Science Festival: The MSU Science Festival is a free annual celebration of science, fueled by some of the basic elements essential to scientific inquiry: curiosity, wonder, and discovery. The festival is free and for lifelong learners of all ages!

April 4 – Family Day: PLAY: First Saturday means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum! This month, find out why artists play with ideas as we celebrate the young artists in the Saturday Morning Art (SmART) pop-up exhibition, in collaboration with the MSU Department of Art, Art History, and Design.

April 5, 12, 19, and 26 – Abrams Planetarium Family Show: The Little Star that Could: Come see the story about an average yellow star on a search for planets of his own to warm and protect. Along his way, he encounters other stars, learns what makes each star special, and discovers that stars can combine to form clusters and galaxies.

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Friday, Saturday – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones.

Greater Lansing Area Events

April 10 – Night at a Living Museum: Visit the Potter Park Zoo to Unlock a world of wonder and discovery at the Living Museum! These hands-on activities are designed for guests of all ages to learn about the care of animals at the zoo and our conservation efforts both locally and globally.

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods.

April 4, and 25 – Meridian Indoor Farmers’ Market: Farmers’ Market Moves Indoors! The Market will move indoors to the JCPenney corridor of the Meridian Mall Starting on Saturday, November 29 and will run through April.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities.

March Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

Spring is right around the corner, and that means it is time for March events! This month holds many virtual and in-person opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out to celebrate the start of the new season. Click the links below to explore future events and register if required. 

Campus Events

Women’s History Month events at MSU coming soon!

Various Dates in March – MSU Women’s Softball Games: Come visit the Secchia Stadium and cheer on the MSU Women’s Softball Team at a home game this March!

Various Dates in March – MSU Men’s Baseball Home Games: Come visit the Jeff Ishbia Field at McLane Stadium and cheer on the MSU Men’s Baseball Team at a home game this March! 

March 10 – Give Green Day: Join Spartans near and far on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, when we come together to make a better tomorrow. Give Green Day is a chance to make a difference to impact current and future Spartans.

March 11 and 12 – Uncommon Impact Begins Here Events: Join colleagues across campus March 11–12 — the two days following Give Green Day — for a series of drop-in activations including the Beaumont Tower Climb, an Ice Cream Giveaway, Historic Printing Press Experience, celebrating the faculty and staff who power MSU. 

March 15 – Jazz Orchestra with Harvey Mason: Legendary drummer Harvey Mason returns to MSU for the first time since his 2017 residency. Known for his genre-defining work with Herbie Hancock’s Head Hunters and countless jazz, funk, and fusion icons, Mason brings decades of innovation and groove to the stage in this powerful concert with the MSU Jazz Orchestras.

March 15 – Museum Tour: Deep-Rooted with Beal Botanical Garden: As spring enters the air, take the opportunity to join Applied Ethnobotanist and Education Director of the Beal Botanical Gardens, Maeve Bassett, to learn about the social, historical, and political narratives within plants in the garden and artwork in the MSU Broad Art Collection.

March 18 – Create and Connect: An Upcycling Workshop: Recharge and reconnect at ‘Create & Connect’, a spring upcycling workshop for MSU employees and graduate students at the MSU Surplus Store and Recycling Center. Through creative activity and informal connection, this event supports wellbeing, belonging, and cross-campus relationships. 

March 26 – 2026 MSU César Chávez & Dolores Huerta Commemorative Celebration: Michigan State University is celebrating its 16th Commemorative Celebration on Thursday, March 26, 2026, honoring the legacies of local and national community leaders and organizers with a special on-campus dinner for MSU students, faculty, staff and local community leaders.

March 26-27 – Fate of the Earth Symposium: Engage with the complexity of sustainability and the messy, collaborative work of turning vision into action. Designed to spark collaboration and build momentum around shared goals, the event aims to strengthen networks and empower participants to take meaningful action toward a sustainable future in uncertain times.

Learning Opportunities 

March 3, 4, 24, and 25 – Spartan Excellence Learning Series: Through a sequence of skill-building modules, participants will learn how to define problems, analyze processes, design improvements, and implement sustainable solutions. By integrating Lean methods within the broader Operational Excellence framework, the series helps create lasting practices that enhance efficiency, transparency, and the overall Spartan Experience. 

March 11 – Engaging and Empowering Teams: Listening, Learning, Leading. Understand employee success by learning evidence-based strategies to engage and empower employees, understanding employees’ perspectives about what matters most to them at work, reflecting on and assessing your own supervisory practices to identify opportunities for growth.

March 12 – Identify and Maximize Your Strengths: Tap into your unique talents and complete the CliftonStrengths Assessment. Learn more about your natural patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, and how they apply to your role in the workplace.

March 13 – Midday Moves: Get into the March Madness action with some midday movement. Between school spirit and good luck, we’ll have to find out where the next round takes us. This session will ensure everyone leaves a winner. Two ways to join: in-person at the MSU Library, or via Zoom link provided.

March 18 – Mental Health First Aid: Higher Education: Developed by people with lived experiences of mental health challenges and professionals, this course teaches early intervention techniques and improves mental health literacy to help you understand, identify, and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges.

March 25 – Writing Policies and Procedures: It can be challenging to write policies and procedures in clear terms that can be understood by all. This virtual course will share proven strategies to successfully take on this task and provide methods for creating easy-to-understand resources. 

March 30 – Cultural Competency II: Building Respect in the Workplace: This in-person class allows you to engage in deep dialogue around power and privilege, positionality, intersectionality, and how these dynamics impact relationships in the workplace. Participants will learn ways to improve communication and treatment of team members and learn actionable practices and strategies.

Family-Friendly Events

March 1 – LEGOpalooza: Visit the Impression 5 Science Center for LEGO®Palooza 2026, an annual fundraising extravaganza packed with LEGO®-themed activities for all your friends and family!

March 7 – Family Day: SPEAK: First Saturday means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum! Make creative connections with our exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the museum. All ages are welcome. Join us as we make art that shares ideas in surprisingly creative ways, presented in celebration of Youth Art Month.

March 8, 15, 22, and 29 – Abrams Planetarium Family Show: Dinosaurs: Bring your family and friends to the Abrams Planetarium to learn about Celeste: a child fascinated by dinosaurs. Watch her exciting adventure to learn about the start of earth and travel back in time to learn all about dinosaurs and their extinction. 

March 14 – Pi Day 5k: Join us for a Pi Day 5k at Hawk Island Park.

Greater Lansing Area Events

March 1 – Lighthouse Lookout Paint and Sip: Grab your friends or a date and join us as we paint and sip during brunch at Lansing Brewing Company! Local artists inspire and instruct Wine and Canvas classes with step-by-step instructions to create your finished masterpiece on a 16×20 canvas. Everyone leaves with a personal masterpiece.

Recurring Weekly on Wednesdays – Live Trivia Night at HopCat: Join us at HopCat East Lansing every Wednesday for Sporcle Live Trivia! Two rounds, two chances to score prizes. 

March 6 – An Evening With The Erly: Formed in 2018, The Erly features an ensemble of musicians that all contribute to lead vocals and solos. Trading in platform shoes for cowboy boots, OH10 reveals The Erly’s roots with a stripped back, rambunctious arrangement, and portrays a story about how they were once stranded in Ohio. Visit Horrock’s Tavern to hear them live for yourselves! 

March 19 – March Madness Trivia: Visit High Caliber Karting & Entertainment for March Madness Trivia Night, where college basketball history, legendary teams, and unforgettable tournament moments take center stage.

Farmers Markets

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. 

March 7 and 21 – Meridian Indoor Farmers’ Market: Farmers’ Market Moves Indoors! The Market will move indoors to the JCPenney corridor of the Meridian Mall Starting on Saturday, November 29 and will run through April. 

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities. 

February Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

It’s almost February, which means it is time to share February events! This month holds many virtual and in-person opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out. Click the links below to explore future events and register if required. 

Campus Events

Black History Month Events at MSU: Michigan State University celebrates Black History Month each year in February and, this year, recognizes its 50th anniversary as a federal designation. This month is dedicated to highlighting the U.S. history of Black and African American people and their contributions to society. Across campus this month, colleges, units and student organizations will commemorate Black and African American history, culture and community.

February 7, 17, and 22 – MSU Men’s Home Basketball Games: Come visit the Breslin Center and cheer on the Michigan State Spartans Men’s Basketball Team at a home game this February! 

February 15 and 21 – MSU Women’s Gymnastics Home Meets: Jenison Field in MSU’s campus is home of the MSU Women’s Gymnastics Team! Come watch a home meet this February to support the team.

February 19, 20, 27, and 28 – MSU Men’s Hockey Home Games: Visit the Munn Ice Arena to support the MSU Men’s Hockey Team this season!

February 20 – Broad Underground: Latinx Experimental Moving Image: This Broad Underground screening is part of the MSU Latinx Film Festival (LxFF), a biennial, curated film festival that serves the Great Lake State of Michigan with a special focus on the Latino/a/x communities of Michigan State University, the greater Lansing area, and the mid-Michigan region.

February 14-22 – Echoes From The Banks of the Red Cedar: Discover the hidden potential beneath the surface through an innovative collaboration involving Alexandria Davis, Kevin Jones, MSU Dance Minors, College of Music students, and MFA candidate Niloufar Fallahfar. With elements of dance, dialogue, music, and sculpture, it celebrates our collective ability to grow and transform, even after long periods of dormancy. 

February 22 – Lunar New Year Celebration Concert: Now in its fifth year, this annual event celebrates the Lunar New Year with a special guest performance by renowned Chinese musician Dr. Haiqiong Deng. Through a program titled Nature, Music, and Convergence, Deng presents a musical journey highlighting the expressive traditions of the zheng and qin, offering a rich reflection on cultural identity, memory, and innovation.

Learning Opportunities 

HR’s Organization and Professional Development Courses:

February 10, 11 and 12 – Getting Things Done: This course teaches skills to manage the constant flow of requests, tasks, and interruptions that face employees at all levels of an organization. By learning how to capture, clarify, and organize incoming requests, participants are more likely to make strategic decisions about where to invest their time and energy in ways that improve results and decrease missed deadlines, mistakes, and stress.

February 19 – Cultural Competency I: One of MSU’s guiding principles is to lead inclusively, actively, and intentionally to promote full participation and a sense of safety and belonging for all employees and staff. Join us in building cultural awareness and inclusiveness skills that strengthen cultural competence!

February 19 – Roadmap to Retirement: If you are an MSU faculty or staff member, and you have decided to retire within a year or two, this half-day workshop covers a range of topics critical to your successful retirement.

February 26 – The Spartan Experience: This training is grounded in real MSU examples, team activities, and self-reflection. Whether you work in student services, facilities, finance, or academic support, you’ll walk away with tangible strategies to elevate your service mindset and make a positive impact, one interaction at a time.

MSU University Health and Wellbeing Options:

February 2, 9 and 16  – Informal Mindfulness:  Spartan Resilience Education invites you to learn informal mindfulness skills to help you find a sense of balance in your life.This class will teach you some basic, informal mindfulness skills that can help you center and find a sense of balance while you move through your busy days.

February 3, 10, 17, and 24 – Developing Emotional Resilience: This course gives you the opportunity to explore the difference between emotional literacy, emotional intelligence and emotional resilience, identify the difference between clean pain and dirty pain, explore the connection between emotional resilience and value guided living, and more. 

February 11 – WorkLife Wellbeing: Navigating Change in the Workplace: This session explores practical strategies for navigating change, both personally and within your team. Participants will learn how to build resilience, support others, and lead through uncertainty with clarity and confidence.

February 16 – Relaxing Under the Stars: Visit Abrams Planetarium for a peaceful experience of a guided constellation tour using the Digistar projection system, followed by calming music under a starry sky—perfect for stress relief and mindful relaxation.

Every Monday through April 27 – Desk Decompress: Gentle movements can help counter the effects of sitting at a desk and leave you feeling more relaxed. Take a few minutes to decompress while stretching and strengthening from head to toe. Most movements can be done sitting or standing. Balance exercises may be included.

MSU Retirement Plan Administrator Resources:

Fidelity Black History Month Toolkit: For Black History Month, Fidelity put together some tips, tools, and resources to help you save more, plan better, and create a financial legacy.

February 12 – TIAA: Yours, mine, ours: Finances for blended families: Figuring out how to handle the finances when bringing different families together is not always easy. In this webinar you’ll get insights on budgeting and cash flow management, Estate planning and legal considerations, retirement planning and long-term goals, and managing differing financial priorities. 

February 24 – TIAA: Managing your finances during and after a divorce: Divorce can bring significant financial changes. From splitting assets to updating beneficiaries and creating a new financial plan, this webinar provides tools to help you take control with clarity and confidence.

Family-Friendly Events

February 7 – Family Day: SEE: First Saturday means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum! Make creative connections with our exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the museum, and explore creative possibilities of light and darkness in connection with Jan Tichy: Darkness. 

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Friday, Saturday – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones.

February 20 – Night Out in Nature for Kids:  At Harris Nature, the kids will explore the trails with flashlights, enjoy nature activities, and meet live animals. Pizza dinner is included.

February 28 – LEGOpalooza: Visit the Impression 5 Science Center for LEGO®Palooza 2026, an annual fundraising extravaganza packed with LEGO®-themed activities for all your friends and family!

Greater Lansing Area Events

February 4 – FIERCE Women in Sports: FIERCE Women in Sports, created on the principle that Females Ignite Empower Respect Collaborate and Engage with one another to expand our networks and strengthen relationships, is honoring National Girls & Women in Sports Day by inviting women from across the Greater Lansing region to come together and celebrate the power of sport. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, mentor, supporter, or leader — this event is for all!

February 7 – Old Town Lansing Chocolate Walk: At the Old Town Chocolate Walk, you will travel the neighborhood and collect chocolates at each location to support the Old Town Commercial Association and contribute to keeping Lansing’s Old Town revitalized. With your ticket you receive a custom box, punch card, map, and chocolates at every stop!    

February 8 – Super Bowl Lansing 5k: Start this year’s Super Bowl Sunday with a fun and fast 5K run/walk through beautiful Downtown Lansing, right in front of the State Capitol! Get in a healthy, fun race—then head off to enjoy your Super Bowl party feeling great!  

February 15 – Chinese New Year Celebration: The Greater Lansing Chinese Association and Meridian Township will co-host the annual Chinese New Year Celebration at the Meridian Mall, providing an afternoon of cultural activities and fun for the community. 2026 welcomes the Year of the Horse!

Farmers Markets

1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturdays (January-April) – Meridian Farmers’ Indoor Market: The Market will move indoors to the JCPenney corridor of the Meridian Mall Starting on Saturday, November 29 and will run through April.

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods.

January Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

The new year is here! If you and your family are looking for upcoming events to ring in the new year, you have come to the right place! January holds many virtual and in-person opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out. Click the links below to explore future events and register if required.

Campus Events

January 4, 15 and 22 – MSU Women’s Home Basketball Games: Come visit the Breslin Center and cheer on the Michigan State Spartans Women’s Basketball at a home game this January! 

January 4, 11, 18 and 25 – The Great Solar System Adventure:  Join showman extraordinaire “The Great Schiaparelli” as he takes the audience on a death-defying space-time adventure within his wondrous Observatorium. prepare to be subjected to the myriad dangers and wonders of our Solar System, on a breathtaking tour that reveals just how precious our home planet really is.

January 15 – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Unity Dinner: Please join us for a wonderful buffet dinner and program honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his legacy! 

January 18 – Spirituals, Prayer, and Protest Concert: In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, this powerful annual concert blends music and message through the lens of jazz. Featuring the MSU Jazz Orchestras and jazz vocalist Carmen Bradford, joined by MSU jazz voice students, the performance offers a stirring tribute through spirituals, reflective works, and bold expressions of hope and justice.

January 20 – Finding Your Voice with Your Vote (Panel Discussion): Get inspired to honor a legacy with the power of the vote.Join the conversation as a panel of experts explore featured clips from the PBS program John Lewis: Get in the Way, and discuss the history behind voting rights, breakdown how your vote is counted, and share how you can harness this essential tool of democracy to honor the legacy of advocates that came before us.

January 24 – Virtual Workshop: Cultural Mapping with Sao Sreymao: How many ways can we map a place? In this online workshop, artist Sao Sreymao will teach us about cultural mapping, a method that uses alternative practices such as art and local stories to understand how communities perceive places. 

January 30 – Winter Opening Party at the MSU Broad Art Museum: Kick off 2026 with us at MSU Broad Art Museum’s Winter Opening Party! Check out the newest exhibitions while enjoying music, art-making activities, and more. All ages are welcome to this museum-wide party! 

January 21 – Why We March: From the Civil Rights Movement to Black Lives Matter: Join MSU Libraries for a pop-up exhibition to highlight historical marches and commemorate the anniversary of the March on Washington. The exhibition showcases a collection of 40 protest posters compiled at the 57th anniversary of the March on Washington in 1963.

Through February 28 – MLK Commemorative Celebration Stuff the Library Event: The MSU Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration Planning Committee is hosting another Stuff the Library event as a component of this year’s celebration to benefit East Lansing Public Schools. The event aims to fill school libraries with books on social justice topics and characters representing diverse backgrounds.

Learning Opportunities

January 14 – Women Talk Money: Your money routine, your rules: Turn your monthly financial to-do list into a routine you’ll actually enjoy—and even want to keep. Discover simple steps and mindset shifts that can help you stay consistent, save more, and stress less.

January 21 – Ask Fidelity Anything: Trading individual bonds & CDs: Don’t miss this live “Ask Fidelity Anything” (AFA) on trading individual bonds & CDs in both the new issue & secondary markets.

January 22 – Bystander Intervention Training: This one-hour interactive course is designed to provide participants with strategies designed to prevent and interrupt problematic behavior associated with gender-based discrimination or harassment in the workplace. Session attendees should leave the program with a better understanding of and increased confidence in Bystander Intervention skills, including knowledge of various MSU-specific support resources.

January 27, 28 and 29 – Crucial Influence:  Leaders must be able to influence behavior to achieve team goals and organizational objectives, and the Crucial Influence Model reveals why people do what they do and how leaders at every level can influence behavior for lasting results. If you are a mid to high-level leader who is responsible for directing change and improving efforts, this is a great course for you! 

January 27 and 28 – Spartan Excellence Learning Series: This two day series equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to improve processes, strengthen accountability, and build a culture of continuous improvement. Grounded in the principles of Operational Excellence, the program emphasizes aligning improvements with MSU’s mission, values, and the 2030 Strategic Plan.  

Family Friendly Events

January 3 – Sensory Friendly Showtime: Developed in partnership with Family Hope Foundation, Sensory Showtimes make movies extra welcoming to guests with special needs, including autism. January’s movie is David! 

January 3, 17 and 31 – Meridian Farmers’ Indoor Market: Farmers’ Market Moves Indoors! The Market will move indoors to the JCPenney corridor of the Meridian Mall Starting on Saturday, November 29 and will run through April.

January 9 – Sensory Friendly Night: Harris Nature Center invites families with members who have sensory processing needs to a special after hours evening. Their friendly and welcoming staff will have the building open and exhibits will be altered to reduce sounds and lighting. HNC will also provide a quiet room and sensory kits will be on hand.This event is open to all ages and abilities!

January 11 – Storytime at the Michigan History Museum: Join Ms. Cassie from Capital Area District Libraries for a Pop-Up Storytime at the Michigan History Museum!

Greater Lansing Area Events

January 8 – Zoso: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience: Visit Grewal Hall  to see Zosom which has become one of the most iconic and respected Led Zeppelin tribute experiences in the world.

January 22 – Lansing Symphony Orchestra: Visit the Robin Theatre in Lansing for the unique, intimate concerts of contemporary chamber music from the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. 

January 23 — 26 – Michigan’s 189th Birthday Bash: Visit Mason to celebrate Michigan’s 189th Birthday! All things Michigan and shop over 100 Michigan small businesses. More details to follow soon. Be sure to follow along our event calendars.