Living Here

Downtown Lansing is turning up the energy this June with events that celebrate love, identity, and community. Pride Month is the perfect time to connect and support local. Downtown Lansing is proud to be a space where everyone belongs and where local organizations, artists, and neighbors come together to make the month unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a day out with friends, a chance to support a cause you care about, or an opportunity to build new connections, here are some of the exciting ways to celebrate Pride in Michigan’s Downtown.

Guest Writer: Chioma Lewis

Downtown Lansing will be buzzing with energy this summer, offering a variety of events that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a foodie, or looking for family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. 

Karaoke Wednesday at Lansing Shuffle

Guest Writer: Chioma Lewis 

Downtown Lansing will be buzzing with energy this summer, offering a variety of events that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a foodie, or looking for family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. 

Karaoke Wednesday at Lansing Shuffle 

Source: LEO V. KAPLAN via Lansing City Pulse

Oluwaseun “Sean” Sipeolu learned to cook by example.

Growing up in Nigeria, he watched his parents and older relatives cook and helped where he could. At first he’d just grind the salt or pepper for them.

“It’s part of the culture,” he said. “You cook with your parents, and when they cook, you watch them.”

Source: COURTNEY BOWERMAN via Lansing City Pulse

Photo by Ariniko Artistry

For Marcus Fields, Riverwalk Theatre’s production of “The SpongeBob Musical” at the end of the month will be a fitting directorial debut. Both he and his twin brother, Randy, are die-hard fans of the Nickelodeon show.

“I have a SpongeBob tattoo, and I quote SpongeBob all the time,” Fields said.

Source: Derrick Mitchell via Fox 47 

LANSING — For Kewpee’s owner Autumn Westin, National Burger Day is more than just a celebration of food — it’s a continuation of a family legacy that spans more than a century.

“It’s been in my family; I’m the fourth generation it’s been in my family for 102 years,” Westin said.

Guest Writer: Jay Krammes 

Looking for the perfect way to unwind after work and soak up the summertime in Downtown Lansing? Live Music Thursdays at the Nelson Gallery are back — and you’re invited to step outside of your office and end your work day with an afternoon of community, arts & entertainment in Michigan’s Downtown. 

Downtown Lansing is undergoing a transformation, and you can be a part of it! Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer with fresh ideas, your energy and passion are exactly what our community needs. Join us for Downtown Lansing Inc.’s (DLI) Volunteer Open House on Thursday, June 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Lansing Shuffle to discover how you can get involved.

New restaurant & lounge opens its doors on S. Washington Square 

LANSING, Mich. (May 22, 2025) - Downtown Lansing welcomed a new restaurant and lounge right on Washington Square during the highly anticipated grand opening of Jollof Afro-Caribbean Lounge located at 221 S. Washington Square. On Thursday, May 22, community members gathered to celebrate the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially marking the start of the business being open to the public.