Category: Event Round-Up

The 60th Annual MSU Arts and Crafts Show. The Winter and Spring Arts and Crafts Shows are fundraisers for the University Activities Board in the MSU Union. Sponsored by Student Life & Engagement.

Winter Events and Holiday Shopping

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

If you and your family are looking for upcoming winter events and holiday shopping, you’ve come to the right place! November and December hold many opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out. Click the links below to explore future events and register if required! 

Holiday Shopping

Online – Student-Made Michigan State: This holiday season, give back to the MSU student community by purchasing gifts from the Student Marketplace!

November 7th- December 21st – Michigan Made Holiday Exhibition & Market: Join us every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from November 7th to December 21st for artwork ranging from fine arts to small gifts to jewelry, paintings, pottery, leatherworks, and more! 

November 15th – Holiday Shopping Night at Impressions 5: Kick off this holiday season at this annual event and find unique STEM-related gifts, toys, books, and more for your loved ones! Enjoy festive drinks, music, and gift wrapping, as proceeds go 100% to a mission-based non-profit organization, Impressions 5. 

December 7th – Holiday Market: From 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., visit the Lansing Shuffleboard and Social Club to get into the holiday spirit. Shop local vendors and try some food from our vendors as well!

December 7th & 8th – Winter Arts & Crafts Show: The Annual Arts and Crafts Show is a beloved event here at MSU, and also serves as a fundraiser for the University Activities Board (UAB). All vendor booth proceeds go directly to UAB, and this event will be held in the MSU Union. Visit the website for more information on times and parking details! 

Campus Events

Throughout November – Native American Heritage Month Events and Educational Programs: As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month throughout November, MSU kicks off the month with back-to-back events, amplifying the voices of Indigenous students, staff, faculty, and organizations on campus. Events include lectures from MSU or invited speakers, craft workshops and participation in discussions, and social lunch events that will help attendees learn more about North American Indigenous people, culture, history, and customs and help build community among each other.

November 13th – Make Art, Make Change!: Join us from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 pm. at the MSU Broad Art Museum to amplify your voice through artmaking and community. There will be snacks, music, and good vibes included! Please visit their website to register for this free event. 

November 14th & December 12th –  Deepening your Essential Skills: If you have completed a Spartan Resilience Education course, you are eligible to continue learning at this webinar. You can ask questions, raise topics, and build community with your peers. Be sure to register for this free course through the link above! 

November 29th – December 22nd – Season of Light Show: Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 4:00 p.m., visit the Abrams Planetarium for a viewing of the Season of Light show! Many customs we observe during the holiday season have an astronomical connection – learn more at one of their shows. 

December 7th – MSU Symphony Orchestra and Choirs, “Holiday Glory”: The Wharton Center will be hosting more than 250 voices in the MSU Symphony Orchestra to celebrate the joy and spirit of the holiday season!

December 12th – Mariachi Herencia de Mexico: A Mariachi Christmas: Celebrate the holidays with A Mariachi Christmas performance with the two-time Latin GRAMMY-nominated band performing Mexican and American Christmas favorites. Be sure to secure your tickets now!

December 14th – Cocoa and Collection at the Broad Art Museum: From 1:00 p.m. to  3:00 p.m., you and your family can come on down to the Broad Art Museum to enjoy hot chocolate and create wintry works of art inspired by their collection! Please visit our website to register for this free, family-fun-filled event! 

December 15th– Holiday Pops at the Wharton Center: The Lansing Symphony Orchestra will be performing classic holiday music and putting on a heartwarming celebration for the whole family at the Wharton Center. Hear more than 100 local voices sing and be transported by the joyous and soulful sounds of local talent! 

Greater Lansing Area Events

November 16th – Pie Making Class: From 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Sweet Encounter Bakery Cafe will teach you how to make your own Salted Caramel Apple Pie! You will walk away with a pie of your own and a recipe to share with your family and friends. Here you can learn how to make a delicious gluten-free crust, a lattice pie, and cinnamon ice cream to top it all off. This class is for those ages 13 and up, and registration costs $89 per person. Check out the website to secure your tickets now! 

November 22- Silver Bells in the City: Are you ready to see the entire city shine? Join us in Downtown Lansing for a tradition of lights, music, and more to celebrate the city and the start of the holiday season. Be sure to visit the website for more information on this free family event! 

November 23rd- December 23rd – Wonderland of Lights at Potter Park Zoo: Take a leisurely stroll through the zoo’s festively illuminated pathways, where you’ll be surrounded by the warm, inviting glow of twinkling lights every Thursday-Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Additionally on December 1st, Toys for Tots will be holding their annual drive at the Potter Park Zoo, and as a thank you for your donations you will receive free entry to Wonderland of Lights.

December 7th – East Lansing Winter Fest: Come by the Hannah Community Center for a celebration of all things winter. This free event will have indoor and outdoor activities, ice carving, crafts, and more! 

Opening Image Credits: The 60th Annual MSU Arts and Crafts Show. Photo courtesy of University Communications.

August Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

If you and your family are looking for activities in the upcoming month, you’ve come to the right place. August 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 

August 3rd – Family Day: PLAY: Join us at the MSU Broad Art Museum from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for a hands-on and family-friendly day full of art and collage-making. Register above for this free event for all ages.

August 4th – Deep-Rooted with Beal Botanical Gardens: The Beal Botanical Gardens is hosting a summer tour from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Learn from Applied Ethnobotanist and Education Program Director, Maeve Bassett about the social, historical, and political narratives within plants in the garden and artwork in the MSU Broad Art Collection. Registration for this free event is encouraged. 

August 25th – Sparticipation: Come to MSU’s largest Fall Welcome Tradition, Sparticipation, to check out over 600 organizations that Michigan State has to offer within 30 different departments. Whether you are a student looking for clubs to become a part of or just curious about campus life, you don’t want to miss out on this one. No registration is needed for this free event at IM East Field from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Learning Opportunities 

August 8th & 22nd – Deepening Your Essential Skills: If you have completed a course by Spartan Resilience Education, you are eligible to continue learning at this webinar. Here you can ask questions, raise topics and build community with your peers. Be sure to register for this free course through the link above! 

Family Friendly Events 

August 8th – Bubble Day: Michigan 4-H Children’s Garden invites you and your family to celebrate the end of summer vacation at the garden with bubbles! As you explore the world of bubbles, you can eat, paint, and even make music with bubbles. Check out the link above for parking information. The cost is $5 per child.. 

August 9th – 11th – St. Johns Mint Festival: Join us at the 39th annual St. Johns Mint Festival featuring a craft show, flea market, live entertainment and activities for those of all ages. This 3- day event allows visitors to explore a variety of handmade crafts and unique items, and enjoy live music from local artists. Check out their website for parking information. 

August 10th – Meridian Pride Event: Come by and celebrate the 2024 Meridian Pride Event from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Marketplace on the Green Pavilion (1995 Central Park Drive). Meridian Pride brings together LGBTQ+ members, allies, and organizations to celebrate diversity and inclusion within the community. There will be food trucks, music, advocacy resources, art vendors, yard games and live entertainment. Check out the link above for more information. 

August 17th – Old Town ArtFeast: Celebrate art and food from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and check out art, craft vendors, food trucks and more. Experience downtown Lansing at this event and come see the town’s unique bars, boutiques, and restaurants. No registration is required for this event.

August 31st & September 1st – Michigan Chicken Wing Festival: If you and your family are looking for a fun-filled weekend in the Lansing area, come on by the Michigan Chicken Wing Festival. Adado Riverfront Park will be hosting a 2-day event featuring live music, a kids’ zone, a VIP tent, food trucks and vendors, arts and crafts, and most importantly – chicken wings! This event is held as a fundraiser to support Against All Odds for their free boutique (Lilian’s) inside Lansing Mall. Against All Odds provides services to the homeless, cancer survivors, disabled, Veterans, and those that need a little help with everyday needs. Read more about the Michigan Chicken Wing Festival in the link above for more information and important notes on what to bring.

Farmers Markets

Farmer’s markets are beloved events in many local communities allowing us an opportunity to support local farmers and small businesses and enjoy delicious produce, baked goods, and even homemade crafts and personal care items. Many Greater Lansing communities offer seasonal farmer’s markets. Find one near you at https://mifma.org/find-a-farmers-market/

Save the Date for October 3: The Open Enrollment Benefits Fair is early this year on Thursday, October 3 at Breslin Center. MSU benefit providers and MSU HR staff will be available to answer questions and/or help employees enroll in their benefits on-site at the Breslin Student Events Center. More information will be shared closer to the event date. Mark your calendar and stay tuned for details!

June Events Round-up

Published on by Josh WorleyLeave a comment

Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events

June 2 – Music and the Garden, MSU Strings and Voice: Experience music and nature at Beal Botanical Gardens. Inspired by how trees positively impact our lives, this year’s series will explore a variety of themes shared through music, activities and presentations. The event starts with drop-in family activities at 1 PM, followed by a concert at 2 PM, and concludes with a “Plant Perspectives Tour” that starts at 3 PM. Free and open to the public (be sure to bring a blanket or chair)!

June 13 – Beal Botanical Garden Tour: iNaturalist Training: Join us at the Beal Botanical Garden for a lunchtime introduction to digital identification tools such as iNaturalist, and their importance in conducting research. This tour will cover methods of plant identification, the Flora of Michigan, how to use dichotomous keys, and how herbarium specimens helped create these resources.

June 14 – MSU Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration: Attend the 4th annual MSU Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration on Friday, June 14, 2024, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Breslin Center. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. This year’s theme is Acknowledging the Journey: Freedom, Resilience, Empowerment and Liberation. The commemoration features the multi-faceted musician and host Rodney Page, gospel music by Gregory D and Company, jazz music by the MSU College of Music, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Phoenix Miranda and more.

Family-Friendly Events

June 1 – Family Day: TRANSFORM: 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. Squish, coil, pinch, and roll! Join us as we transform lumps of clay into fantastical sculptures. 

June 8 – Parent and Child Pizza Class: A fantastic way to spend an afternoon with your kid! You and your child will have a hands-on experience – making and tasting some amazing pizzas. This is meant to be an enjoyable class, not anything very serious. Our goal is for you to come in hungry, leave having eaten plenty of food, and with some new knowledge about pizza.

June 8–15 – 31st Lansing Juneteenth Celebration & African American Parade: The mission of the Lansing Juneteenth Committee is to commemorate the ending of slavery in the United States by celebrating the joys of liberty, educating the community about our heritage, and by promoting positive cultural interaction. There are tons of events all week!

June 13–15 – 517 Juneteenth Weekend: The 517 Juneteenth Weekend is a unique opportunity for the Mid-Michigan region to celebrate black culture, expression, and freedom while reflecting on 159 years of African-American emancipation. Juneteenth Weekend will feature events and activities from Thursday, June 13th – Sunday, June 16th, with the free Juneteenth Festival taking place in REO Town (on South Washington Ave) on Saturday, June 15th.

Join us for live musical performances, a special guest headline performance, food, black-owned vendors lined down South Washington Ave, informational booths, a kids zone, battle of the BBQ, and much more.

June 16 – Father’s Day Afternoon Dinner Cruise: What a better way to celebrate the Fathers in our lives than spending the afternoon together on a boat? Bring him and the family out for a cruise on the beautiful Grand River. This cruise event will sell out in advance so purchase your tickets early! Guests will be seated on two levels, with stairs required to reach the second deck. Handicap seating on the first deck is limited. Please be sure to check the handicap box on the reservation page when purchasing your tickets.

June 16 – Art on the Farm Workshop: Immerse yourself in inspiration at MSU’s Student Organic Farm. Join us for a walking tour at the certified-organic vegetable farm to learn about organic farming basics, permaculture, farming in hoop houses, and which crops find their way to the dining hall kitchens. After seeing the sights, you’ll be turned loose to sketch, photograph, paint en plein air, capture audio and video, write, dance, and otherwise engage with your artistic practice in this pastoral setting. We can’t wait to see what you create! BYOAS: Bring your own art supplies. Families welcome!

June 21 – Potter Park Zoo Twilight Adventures: Experience a magical evening at Potter Park Zoo during our Twilight Adventures! Join us for an adventure-filled night from 6 to 9 p.m. as you embark on a self-guided tour, follow clues along the way, and learn from our conservation education stations. Engage in fun games and activities under the stars while enjoying delicious s’mores and concession snacks! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the zoo after hours and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.

June 22 – Lansing Pride: Celebrate Pride in Old Town Lansing! There will be a main stage with entertainment throughout the day, vendors, food, beer tent, and a family area. Follow at www.lansingpride.org or Lansing Pride on Facebook for all of the latest information. With a special performance by Loosey Leduca!

June 29 – MSUFCU Kids’ Day: Join MSUFCU as they celebrate their youth members! Enjoy games and prizes, giant inflatables, financial education activities, free food and more!

June 30 – Abrams Planetarium June 2024 Children’s Feature Show: Created and hosted by cosmically curious teenagers from Milwaukee schools, this unique cosmic experience takes you on a dynamic journey across the universe and through time. Science Topics Include: Black Holes, Cosmology–Origins & Fate of the Universe, Star Cycles, Sun, Earth Origins & History, Water Origins & Chemistry.

Learning Opportunities

June 4 – Crucial Influence: Leaders must be able to influence behavior to achieve team goals and organizational objectives.  Leadership isn’t just about crafting an inspiring vision, it’s about achieving it by mobilizing others to work well independently, and together. The Crucial Influence Model reveals why people do what they do and how leaders at every level can influence behavior for lasting results. Target Audience: Mid to high level leaders who are responsible for leading change and improvement efforts.

June 13 – Identify and Maximize Your Strengths: After completing the online assessment prior to the course, you will attend this program to receive your results and explore what you naturally do best, identify the impacts of those talents on your work and relationships, and determine how to further develop these areas to be most successful. With new self-awareness, and a new language for understanding and expressing what you do best, research has shown that you will be more likely to feel confident, achieve goals, and feel energetic and engaged. Who doesn’t want that?

June 20 – Cultural Competency: 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!

Health & Wellness

June 3 – The Healing Power of Guided Imagery: Guided Imagery has been shown to alleviate pain, reduce depression, and boost the immune system. Join Jessie Byelich, EAP Counselor, at Abrams Planetarium to learn more. Registration for this free course is required. 

June 17 – Rest with Music: Music is powerful. It can heal. It can calm. It can change our mood. It can regenerate our body, mind and spirit. MSU Health4U, Abrams Planetarium, and MSU Student Health Promotion and Prevention Services invite you to take an hour out of your month to listen and simply Rest with Music. Registration for this free course is required. 

Local Farmers Markets

June 2 – Eastern Ingham Farmer’s Market: The Market will happen every Sunday from 10-2 at McCormick Park in Williamston, Michigan. The Market will have a variety of vendors including produce, locally raised meats, baked goods. Actually visiting the Eastern Ingham Farmers Market is the only way to know how very special it is. The Market is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Sunday from mid-May to mid-October and for a special post-season Holiday Market in December. Everyone is welcome!

June 2 – The East Lansing Farmers Market: The East Lansing Farmers Market (ELFM), a growers-only market, is located in an inviting, open-air park atmosphere, just steps away from the MSU campus and downtown East Lansing. Customers can fill their shopping bags with a diverse selection of fresh, farm-grown Michigan produce and products, including vegetables, fruit, artisan bread, cheese, meat, coffee, maple syrup, honey, flowers and more.

The 2024 season of the East Lansing Farmers Market is scheduled to run June 2-Oct. 28 on Sundays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Valley Court Park, 280 Valley Court.

March Events Round-Up

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events 

March 1-17– The REDress Project Exhibition: the MSU Museum and its campus partners will host the REDress Project, an evocative art installation that spotlights the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. This striking exhibition features approximately 60 red dresses suspended along West Circle Drive in public spaces near the MSU Museum and Beal Botanical Garden, symbolizing the haunting absence and powerful presence of these women and girls. A reception will take place on March 8, International Women’s Day, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Green Room (4th floor, West) at the MSU Libraries. Please RSVP for the reception.

March 9- Step Afrika! At the Wharton Center: Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, traditional West and Southern African dances, and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Ticket prices are available on the Wharton Center website. 

March 9 – April 14 – APIDA Heritage Month Events: Michigan State University recognizes Asian Pacific Islander Desi American, or APIDA, Heritage Month each year to celebrate the group’s diverse identities, histories, and cultures. APIDA Heritage Month is recognized nationally in May when most students are no longer on campus. MSU observes APIDA Heritage Month events this year between March 9 and April 14 while students are on campus and can connect with each other.

March 18 – 30 — Las Alas Invisibles: The Unseen Wings: Join the exhibition reception to celebrate MSU’s migrant farmworker and farmer community on March 18, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the MSU Union Art Gallery (2nd floor). Timed with National Farmworker Awareness Week and MSU’s CĂ©sar Chávez and Dolores Huerta Commemorative Celebration, the exhibition traces the migration of monarch butterflies and migrant farmworker labor from the fields to higher education.

March 20- Artist Talks: 2024 Master of Fine Arts Exhibition (free): Join MSU Department of Art, Art History, and Design Master of Fine Arts degree candidates Shirin Abedinirad, Gustavo Uriel Ayala, Emily J. Burkhead, Adeline Newmann, and Patrick N. Taylor as they discuss their work included in the 2024 Master of Fine Arts Exhibition, on view from Mar. 9–May 26, 2024 at the MSU Broad Art Museum. Register here. 

March 25- 2024 MSU CĂ©sar Chávez & Dolores Huerta Commemorative Celebration (free): Each year, the Michigan State University, Greater Lansing, and East Lansing communities gather at MSU to honor the legacy of two of the most prominent U.S. labor leaders and civil rights activists, CĂ©sar E. Chávez and Dolores Huerta. This event will feature a keynote speaker and workshops followed by a dinner. Registration for this free event is encouraged. 

Family-Friendly Activities

March 2- Family Day: Connect: 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. Registration for this free event is encouraged.

March 12- Kids Crafternoon at the East Lansing Public Library (free): Join the East Lansing Public Library for a casual craft activity, featuring a simple craft project each week and supplies to do it. 

March 17- Sensory Friendly Show at Abrams Planetarium (free): The Abrams Planetarium offers sensory friendly shows on the third Sunday of every month at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. 

March 23- Bug Day at the East Lansing Public Library (free): Come to the Library during this open-house style event to enjoy a variety of interactive activities exploring the science of arthropods (“bugs” like insects, arachnids, and more). Join MSU STEM Ambassador Dr. Christina Miller and East Lansing Public Library’s STEAM Educator Dr. B for a fun-filled exploration of bugs. 

Health and Wellness

March Tuesdays: Informal Mindfulness Course (free): 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. Registration is required for each online session. 

March 6- Wellbeing Through Divorce: Insights and Strategies: This virtual seminar, featuring Anne Conlon, will discuss the process of divorce and tools and strategies to support wellbeing through this pivotal life transition. Registration is required for this webinar.

March 11: Encore Presentation: Workplace Wellbeing: This session will explore opportunities to infuse health and wellbeing into the daily work routine and the resources available through MSU’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Registration is required for this free webinar.

March 12, 19, 26: Chair Yoga (free): Chair Yoga adapts some of the traditional poses of yoga to be done seated, or while standing and using the chair for support. Stretching, reaching, bending, and breathing – and no mat required! Registration is required for each free session. 

March 20- Wellness Wednesday: Cold-Hardy Planting (free): Embrace the Spring Equinox and celebrate the changing seasons with the Beal Botanical Garden and MSU Museum. This workshop invites you to extend your garden’s growing season by delving into the world of cold-hardy vegetables and sustainable planting techniques. Registration for this free event is recommended.

Learning Opportunities

March Fridays- Financial Fridays: Learn about investing in retirement, MESP 529 Plans, and estate planning from field professionals every Friday in March. In-person and online registration is available on the WorkLife Office website. 

March 13- Women’s Networking Association – Networking Breakfast – Women’s History Month Celebration (free): In honor of Women’s History Month, The Women’s Networking Association welcomes you to their Networking Breakfast from 8:00am – 10:00am. Join us for a networking presentation by Shelley Davis Boyd, breakfast and an opportunity to network and connect with others at MSU. Registration for this event is required. 

March 19- Attracting and Retaining Values Based Employees Seminar: This session will offer insights into what employees value, the importance of flexibility, support for caregivers, and the importance of investing in the mental health and wellbeing of employees. Join Sherri Reese, Jake Lathrop, and Rachel Perez by registering for this online event. 

March 26- Finding Time: Time Management Strategies for Busy Professionals (free): While we can’t borrow or bottle time, this class will explore strategies to more efficiently allocate our minutes, streamline workflow, and relieve some pressure in the process. Registration is recommended for this online session. 

February Events Round-Up

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events

Throughout February – Black History Month Events: Per national tradition, every year Michigan State University celebrates Black History Month throughout February. This month is dedicated to highlighting the history of Black, African American, and African people throughout the United States. Colleges, units, and student organizations across campus will be hosting events throughout the month. 

Starts February 1 – William G. Anderson Lecture Series Slavery to Freedom (free, please register): An American Odyssey: MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine presents the 24th Annual Dr. William G. Anderson Lecture Series. The series gives the community opportunities to interact with multicultural leaders from education, business, industry, entertainment, and government. For 24 years, this series has featured living icons of the American Civil Rights Movement.

February 2- Winter Opening Party at the Broad Art Museum (free): Experience the many offerings of your campus art museum. You’re invited to explore our newest exhibitions while enjoying food, music, special guests, art-making activities, and more. All ages are welcome to this museum-wide party!

February 7- 2nd Annual Black History Symposium (free): Please join James Madison College as they welcome Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra H. Bolden, the first Black woman to serve as a Michigan Supreme Court Justice. Registration required.

February 6-11- “Funny Girl” at the Wharton Center: The Wharton Center will be hosting “Funny Girl” in the Cobb Great Hall. Ticket prices are available on the Wharton Center website.

February 10 – Lunar New Year Celebration Concert: The Lunar New Year is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar. It is the most important holiday in China and is widely celebrated in South Korea, Vietnam, and countries with a significant overseas Chinese population. This concert event features guest composer Shuying Li and the world premiere of her Rhapsody of the Awakening Dragon. Tickets can be purchased here.

February 13 –  Remembrance: Acknowledging that each person continues to process at their own pace and in their own way, student, faculty, and staff committees are planning opportunities to allow our community to again come together to remember those we lost, those injured and all impacted by the tragedy. As Interim President Woodruff wrote to the campus community, these Feb. 13 activities include an evening remembrance gathering and a day of kindness and service to the local community. Reflective spaces and counseling support will be available and there are ongoing resources available to the campus community.

February 21- From Detroit to the Cosmos: Carl Craig on Techno and Afrofuturism conversation (free): Presented in partnership with WKAR Public Media and moderated by MSU Museum curator Dr. Julian Chambliss, this unique program will explore Craig’s creative process and Detroit Techno’s fundamental role in shaping contemporary Afrofuturism. Registration for this free event is required. 

Learning Opportunities

February 1– Virtual Reality Open Hours (free): Whether you’re a first-timer or a VR professional, MSU Libraries VR Open Hours are for you! Take their HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, and other headsets for a spin, connect with others, and learn about virtual reality. 

February 1 (start date)- Building a Framework for Resilient Leadership Seminar: Explore with other campus leaders some essential resilience skills required for effective leadership for the common good, including emotional intelligence, emotional resilience, psychological flexibility, mindfulness, effective stress mitigation practices, and practices of compassionate accountability for self and others. Registration for this online four-part seminar (9 a.m.-Noon) is required.

February 8- Taming the Email Beast: If you would like to get control of your e-mail “beast,” you should attend this program featuring specific tips for Outlook and Gmail users, but applicable to ANY e-mail user. Registration for this online course is required. 

Health and Wellness

February 1 & 15- Deepening Your Essential Skills (free): This webinar is an opportunity for people who have completed any course offered by Spartan Resilience Education to continue their learning, ask questions, raise topics, and build community with other learners from across the MSU community. Registration for this free class is recommended. 

February Mondays and Wednesdays– Blue Cross Winter Warm-Up (free): Have fun getting fit and working toward your health goals with the Blue Cross® Winter Warm-Up. This 5K training program is free and open to walkers and runners of all ages and abilities. The eight-week training program involves attending two weekly one-hour run/walk sessions with certified Good Form Running and Walking coaches from the Playmakers Fitness Foundation. Registration for this free event is recommended. 

February 15- Active Office Workshop (free): If you work in an office setting, it can be hard to get enough movement during the day. Learn about the importance of physical activity and how you can combat the aches and pains of a desk job with this free interactive session.

Family-Friendly Activities

February 3- Family Day: VOICE: 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. Get loud and speak up! Join us as we make sculptures that amplify our voices. 

February 4- 2024 Lansing Polar Plunge: Brave the cold at the 2024 Lansing Polar Plunge and raise funds to support Special Olympics Michigan athletes and programs. All plungers must fundraise at least $100 to receive this year’s official plunge sweatshirt. Register and learn more here. 

February 15- Black History Month Teen Movie Night: “Soul”: Celebrate Black History Month at the library! The theme for Black History Month 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts.” To celebrate, the East Lansing Public Library will be offering movie showings to teens throughout February that explore this theme, including “Soul.”

January Events Round-Up

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events

January 7- Museum Tour: Architecture (free): Have you ever wondered why the MSU Broad Art Museum looks the way it does? Learn more about our unique building and the Pritzker Prize-winning architect behind it through this tour led by Curatorial Research and Administrative Assistant ThaĂ­s Wenstrom. Registration for this event is encouraged.

January 12 – 19 – MLK Jr. Commemorative Celebration (registration required for some events): Join in on some or all of the MLK Jr. Commemorative Celebration events happening this week, including a MLK commemorative march at Beaumont Tower, community unity dinner, film series, coffee and conversations, and more! Find all event details on the MLK Calendar of Events webpage.

January 16-21- Mamma Mia!: The Wharton Center will be hosting “Mamma Mia!” in the Great Hall from January 16-21. Ticket prices are available on the Wharton Center website. 

January 5-28- Abrams Planetarium Public Feature Show: Experience the Aurora Borealis through Abrams Planetarium immersive show. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm and Sunday at 4:00 pm. Tickets are available on the Abrams Planetarium website. 

Family-Friendly Activities

January 3- Lego Palooza at the Grand Ledge Area District Library (free): Come get creative with LEGO Bricks at the library! Each child will get a tray of LEGO Bricks and the challenge is to build their most fantastic creation from just those bricks! 

January 5- Double Clutch Karaoke (free): Karaoke is headed to High Caliber! Every Friday night from 7-11 PM you, your friends, or coworkers can come out and sing. Enjoy this new, totally free activity at High Caliber Karting & Entertainment located in the Meridian Mall.

January 6- Family Day: LIFT (free): 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. Registration for this free event is encouraged. 

Learning Opportunities

January 17- Family Employee Resource Group (free): Supporting LGBTQIA+ Youth: Join the WorkLife Office for a webinar aimed at parents, caregivers, educators, and allies who want to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQIA+ youth. Led by parents and experts in LGBTQIA+ advocacy, this webinar will provide valuable insights and practical strategies to address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ kids and teens.

January 18- Craft Meet Up (free): Join the Makerspace on the third Thursday of the month to take a break and create with others. Bring your own crafts or use our supplies! Knitting, collaging, perler beads and more! Registration for this free event is recommended. 

January 24- WorkLife Office Seminar: Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: The WorkLife Office is hosting a virtual seminar with Tim Spedoske, the Director of Campus Health Services to learn tips on how to feel less alone and how to better your mental/physical health. Registration for this event is required. 

Health and Wellness

January 8- The Healing Power of Guided Energy: Guided imagery is a form of directed day-dreaming that relaxes the mind and engages the senses in the physical and emotional healing process. Register for this free class here. 

January 9- Chair Yoga: Spring (free): MSU Health4U is jumpstarting the new year with chair yoga classes beginning on January 9. Chair yoga adapts some of the traditional poses of yoga while seated or standing with the help of a chair. Join this class via Zoom on Tuesdays from 11:15-11:45. 

January 22- Rest With Music (free): Join Monte Pride and Health4U to enjoy this series of live musical performances to help you relax during your busy workday. Registration for this free event is recommended.

Holiday Events

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Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming holiday season? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. 

Many events require registration or ticket purchase, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events

December 2 and 3 – Winter Arts & Crafts Show (free): The Annual MSU Arts and Crafts Show is a seasonal tradition and beloved community event. The Winter and Spring Arts and Crafts Shows are fundraisers for the University Activities Board (UAB). All vendor booth fees proceeds go directly to the UAB. This event will be held in the MSU Union.

December 13 – Beal Lunch & Learn: Holiday Plant Lore (free): Tis the season, sit around the fire with Maeve Bassett and enjoy the plant stories created throughout human history over many dark long winter nights! This online presentation will cover winter and holiday plant lore, supplying you with plenty of weird plant stories to take home for the holidays.

December 9 – Holiday Cheer with MSU Symphony Orchestra and Choir: More than 200 members from MSU’s Symphony Orchestra and Choirs bring the joy and spirit of the season to life in this holiday music tradition. Tickets are available on the Wharton Center website.

December 13 – Beal Lunch & Learn: Holiday Plant Lore (free): Tis the season, sit around the fire with Maeve Bassett and enjoy the plant stories created throughout human history over many dark long winter nights! This online presentation will cover winter and holiday plant lore, supplying you with plenty of weird plant stories to take home for the holidays.

December 16 – Cocoa and Collection at the Broad Art Museum (free): Bring the whole family to the MSU Broad Art Museum to warm up with hot cocoa and art-making activities inspired by wintry works of art in our collection! All ages are welcome. Registration for this free event is encouraged.

Greater Lansing Area Events 

November 17 – Silver Bells in the City (free): Experience holiday sights, an electric light parade, a community sing-along and more in the heart of Lansing for a holiday celebration. 

November 18 to December 23 – Potter Park Zoo Wonderland of Lights: Take a leisurely stroll through the zoo’s festively illuminated pathways, where you’ll be surrounded by the warm, inviting glow of twinkling lights.

November 23 – Downtown Dewitt Turkey Trot 5K: Family 5k Fun Run is the perfect way to start your holiday. Participants of all ages and paces are welcome – dogs and strollers too! Tickets required. 

December 1 – Night Lights Christmas Parade and Lights | Downtown Grand Ledge (free): The annual holiday parade in Grand Ledge features photos with Santa, Christmas Caroling, a festive tree lighting and more. 

December 9 – East Lansing Winter Fest (free): Stop by the Hannah Community Center from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for the Winter Farmers Market, arts and crafts, and free entertainment. 

December 17- Harris Nature Centers Critter Holiday: Bring your family and friends to the Harris Nature Center to create edible treats for the birds and squirrels in your backyard. There is a $5/person fee payable at the time of the program or you can register online (non-refundable).

October Events Round-Up

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Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events 

October 3- To Kill A Mockingbird: The Wharton Center will be hosting “To Kill a Mockingbird” in the Cobb Great Hall from October 3-8. Ticket prices are available on the Wharton Center website. 

October 12- MSU Broad Art Museum: Game Changers (free): Take a tour through “Resistance Training: Arts, Sports, and Civil Rights” and discuss gender inequality in sports while learning about the “game-changing” legislation that redefined sports. 

October 12- Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Fall and Winter Plant Lore (free):  Join Beal Botanical Garden’s Educational Program Director, Maeve Bassett, for a lunchtime tour to learn how the plants stay protected in the colder months. 

October 29- MSU Men’s Basketball Charity Exhibition Game: The Spartans will be facing off with the Tennesse Volunteers for an exhibition game with all proceeds going to Hawaii Community Foundation Maui Strong Fund to provide financial resources to local relief efforts.

Learning Opportunities

October 1- Midjourney AI Art Workshop 1: Introduction to Generative AI Art with Midjourney (free): This foundational session will serve as an introduction to AI art through guided demonstrations and exercises. 

October 12- Post-Parental Leave Employee Resource Group (free): Join this session to learn about what work-life balance looks like after parental leave. Learn about MSU’s remote and hybrid work policies and how to develop a flexible work arrangement. 

October 13- Open Virtual Reality (free): Whether you’re a first-timer or a VR professional, MSU Libraries VR Open Hours are for you! Connect with others and learn about virtual reality during this in-person course.

Health and Wellness

October 4- Mindfulness in the Workplace: Learn the basics of mindfulness and how you can benefit from a mindful work environment in this virtual course. 

October 4- Raising Good Eaters: The Feeding Relationship: This series will serve as a problem-solving course in learning how to feed your children and identify eating/feeding skills.

October 12- Open Enrollment Benefits Fair: MSU benefit providers and MSU HR staff will be available to answer questions and/or help employees enroll in their benefits on-site at the Breslin Student Events Center. 

October 15- MSU College of Law Justice For All 5K Walk/Run: The second annual Justice For All 5K Walk/Run will be held at 1:00 PM on October 15. The course will lead participants through MSU’s campus with donations going to Legal Services of South Central Michigan.

Family-Friendly Activities

October 1- Meridian Heritage Festival: Celebrate the community’s history with a day of entertainment, demonstrations, games, and exhibits from Native American and early American cultures featuring games and a Civil War Reenactment Presentation. 

October 7- Family Day: TEAM: Make creative connections at the Broad Art Museum with our exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the museum.

October 7- Grand Ledge Fall Festival: Celebrate fall in Grand Ledge with crafters, vendors, food trucks, entertainment, pumpkins, handmade items, baked goods, pony rides, pottery, candles, jewelry, and much more. 

September Events Round-Up

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Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events

September 1- MSU Football Season Opener: The Spartans kickoff their first game of the season at 7 PM against Central Michigan University. 

September 8- Fall Opening Party at the Broad Art Museum: Experience the many offerings of your campus art museum! You’re invited to explore our newest exhibitions while enjoying food, music, special guests, and activities for all. Registration for this free event is encouraged.

September 14- Masterworks 1: Dvorak New World Symphony: The 94th season at the Wharton Center begins with the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. Ticket prices are available on the Wharton Center website.

Learning Opportunities

September 7- Engaging Teams for Maximum Performance: Developing a shared vision of success is a critical factor in boosting team performance. Methods of building trust, setting goals and providing feedback to help enhance employee engagement and working relationships will be shared in this virtual session.

September 14- Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Restoration of the Red Cedar River:  Join Beal Botanical Gardens Director, Dr. Prather, for a lunchtime tour to learn about the Red Cedar River’s restoration efforts.

September 20- Family Employee Resource Group: Family Resources for Learning Disabilities in K-12: Join this virtual session with Andrea Beachneau, Regional Parent Mentor with the Michigan Alliance for Families, and Greg Molenda, Director of Technical Assistance for the Ingham Intermediate School District to learn about resources for K-12 students with learning disabilities. 

Health and Wellness 

September 6: Fresh Air Fitness: Yoga in the Beal Garden: The fall series of Yoga in the Beal Garden begins, stretching throughout the month of September. Registration is recommended for this free event. 

September 7: Ergonomic Best Practices for Work-Station Comfort and Safety: Identify common workplace stressors and learn the best practices for developing an ergonomically friendly workspace. This zoom seminar requires registration. 

September 12: Understanding Sleep and Optimizing Your Nightly Reboot: Discuss the physiological importance of sleep through this free virtual course with MSU Health4U. 

September 25- Active Office Workshop: Learn about the best practices for physical activity in the workplace and develop a culture of movement through this virtual seminar. 

Family-Friendly Activities

September 2- Family Day: BALANCE: Make creative connections with our exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the Broad Art Museum. All ages are welcome. Registration for this free event is encouraged.

September 23-25- Spartan Family Weekend: The MSU and Spartan Family Connections is hosting its inaugural Spartan Family Weekend Presented by MSUFCU Friday, Sept. 23 through Sunday, Sept. 25. The weekend will include social and academic opportunities to explore campus and the MSU community with your Spartan and to celebrate with families from across the country and around the world! Registration for this event is required. 

August Events Round-Up

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Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events

Resistance Training: Arts, Sports, and Civil Rights to Open at Broad Art Museum: A new exhibition will be available at the Broad Art Museum from August 19-February 2024. The exhibition explores the shared values between artists and athletes in the advancement of social justice-related issues.

August 27- Sparticipation: Come to MSU’s annual involvement fair that features over 500 student organizations, 30 departments and sponsors. This free event is a great way to kick off any Spartan’s journey. 

Learning Opportunities

August 10- Leading WIth Cultural Competence: MSU HR is hosting an in-person event on recognizing elements of self-awareness, eliminating/countering stereotypes and reinforcing behaviors that support cultural competency.

August 10- Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Beal Botanical Garden Staff Favorites: Join staff at the Beatl Botanical Gardens for a lunchtime tour (12:10-12:55 p.m.) of their favorite plants and what makes them special. 

August 16- Strategic Planning Seminar: MSU HR is hosting a leadership that focuses on taking your ideas and turning them into action. Join online from 1:00-3:00 p.m.

August 22- Identify and Maximize Your Strengths Seminar: Complete the CliftonStrengths Assessment to tap into your full potential and talents. Join this seminar in-person from 1:00-5:00 p.m. 

August 24- THATCamp: THATCamp (The Humanities and Technology Camp) is an opportunity to start the semester with peers and experts by sharing knowledge and experiences in humanities and technology-related fields. This event will be from 8:45 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration is encouraged. 

Health and Wellness

August 3- Deepening Your Essential Skills: Register for this free course brought to you by Health4U via Zoom to deepen and develop your essential skills. This meeting is scheduled for 12:30 PM- 1:30 PM. 

Yoga in Beal Garden II: This second phase of yoga in the Beal Botanical Gardens will work to accommodate a workday schedule and promote being active. Yoga in the Beal Garden will run from July 12- August 16, every Wednesday starting at 12:15 pm. 

August 25- Let Your Summer Produce Shine: Discover local produce and Michigan fruit availability and how to incorporate produce in the kitchen. This is a free in-person event and will be hosted at the MSU Union. 

Family-Friendly Activities

August 5- Family Day: MOVE: Make creative connections with our exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the museum. All ages are welcome. Registration for this free event is encouraged.

August 14- Open House at the MSU Bug House: Visit the MSU Bug House on Monday, August 14 between 5:30 and 7:30 pm! All are welcome. Registration is required.