Living Here

April is National Volunteer Month, which is a perfect opportunity to join fellow community members actively shaping Downtown Lansing’s future. As a certified Main Street organization, DLI uses a community-centered approach to revitalization and there are numerous opportunities for you to contribute your time and talents to make a BIG impact. Whether you’re interested in event planning, community outreach, beautification efforts or business development, DLI offers various volunteer opportunities to match your interests and schedule.

Source: Rachel Greco Lansing State Journal

LANSING - Two restaurants are expected to open downtown less than a quarter of a mile from one another this year.

Jollof Afro-Caribbean Lounge, a lounge and restaurant serving African and Caribbean dishes, and Sea Level, a fast-casual seafood eatery and bar, will both occupy vacant storefronts on South Washington Square.

Our March Volunteer of the Month is Erin Robinson! Erin chairs our Business Development Committee that is critical for supporting and communicating with our downtown business owners, as well as working with property owners on new and exciting developments downtown.

Additionally, Erin and her expertise have been instrumental in helping DLI prepare for its upcoming Middle Village cohort this May.

Downtown Lansing Inc. (DLI), the downtown management agency for Michigan’s Downtown, has announced that it will host the 61st Annual Easter Egg Hunt on the Capitol Lawn followed by Bunny Hop on the Square on Saturday, April 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. During the event, the community is invited to come to Downtown Lansing to get candy and treats and enjoy fun activities with Downtown Lansing businesses. 

Source: Ourspace Foundation

On April 19, 2025, Ourspace Foundation will host one of its most ambitious events yet—A Night at the Soul Lounge featuring Grammy-nominated R&B and neo-soul band, Moonchild. The concert, taking place at Grewal Hall @ 224, will be an unforgettable evening of soulful music, community connection, and a culture-driven celebration. Doors open at 7:30 PM. 

Dreaming of your next getaway? Craig Corey Vacations is here to make it happen! Since 1991, this award-winning travel company has been helping travelers craft unforgettable experiences — from luxury beach escapes to breathtaking safaris and everything in between.

Source: Julian Stainback WILX

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - More affordable housing will be coming to Downtown Lansing.

The Lansing Housing Commission broke ground on two new apartment buildings: Riverview 220 and Grand Vista Place.

Riverview 220 will be built across the street from the CATA Transportation Center on South Grand Avenue. It will provide 56 apartments for low-income families as well as a retail space.

LANSING, Mich.(WLNS)— Hundreds of people ran or walked through downtown Lansing earlier today for the Super Bowl 5k.

The Super Bowl 5k was hosted by the Michigan Running Foundation Sunday morning.

The race was a 3-mile run that started and ended at the Capitol.

250 runners braved the cold, all in an attempt to snag first place and raise money for their fellow youth runners.

Joseph Darda, a marathon runner, who won the entire race says this 5k was preparing him for a bigger event.

Guest Writer: Stephanie Van Koevering

Dear Downtown Lansing,

Thank you for making Thursday my favorite day of the week.

That’s the day when the downtown Lansing branch of the Capital Area District Library offers the most precious of treats: a chance to creep down a quiet stairwell and enter a basement space filled with the intoxicating scents of library paste, faded ink and worn leather. 

It’s the Book Burrow, and it’s one of the greatest pleasures our city offers.

Our February Volunteer of the Month is Keri Tomac! Keri has been a long-time member of our Promotions Committee and serves on our Board of Directors. She is instrumental in planning our annual BrrrCrawl event, which serves a fun, engaging way to show Downtown Lansing’s nightlife scene across the community. 

Thanks so much for all that you do, Keri!