May 17 events to highlight local culture, businesses, and community pride
LANSING, Mich. (May 13, 2025) - Melik Brown, also known as Metro Melik, Creator and Founder of 517 Day, announced this year’s official lineup of activities happening across the city. Celebrating its eighth year, this year’s celebration convenes several community organizations and local businesses to help the community celebrate all there is to love about the 517, including the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing, Downtown Lansing, Inc. (DLI), Rathburn Insurance and other community partners.
“517 Day is all about celebrating what makes Lansing and the 517 area so special, from our local talent and culture to the people who make this city shine,” said Brown. “It’s a day to come together, enjoy live music, art, food, and community, and experience firsthand why Lansing is the place to be.”
All 517-day activities will feature Michigan makers, music, art, shopping, food and the culture of the Lansing community. While there will be activities happening all around the city, Downtown Lansing will be the epicenter of 517 Day festivities, welcoming thousands of community members to the Best of Lansing Festival and with activities and events all along S. Washington Square, Capitol Ave., and Lansing’s riverfront. DLI will also unveil window murals created by local artists celebrating Lansing’s culture.
Hosted by Lansing 5:01, the Best of Lansing Festival is on Saturday, May 17, from 5–9 PM. The 3rd annual Best of Lansing Festival features the best of the best — artists and creatives to retail shops and restaurants, the influencers, changemakers, and creators that make the 517 so unique. Attendees can experience local businesses, artisans, food trucks, inflatable games, public art, and LIVE music featuring THE LOVE EFFECT.
Other events during the 2025 517 Day celebration include:
Over the Edge with the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: Boji Tower
Ignition Maker Fest at Impression 5 Science Center
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Impression’s 5 Science Center
The Jump Off: APPARATUS EDITION
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Location: All of the Above Hip Hop Academy
Lansing 517 Flash Event by Devils Day Tattoo
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Location: Devils Day Tattoo
517 Day Celebration at Lansing Shuffle
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Lansing Shuffle
Deadly Strings Band at Capital Hippie
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Capital Hippie
Lugnuts 517 Day with LAFCU Fireworks
Time: 7:05 p.m.
Location: Jackson Field
Several Downtown Lansing businesses will also be participating by hosting events, promotions, specials and more! To see a full list of participating Downtown Lansing businesses, visit https://downtownlansing.org/events/517-day-downtown-lansing.
