By Jay Krammes
Lansing’s fall festival season is stacked with back-to-back excitement!
517 Hispanic Heritage Weekend (Sept. 18–21) adds a cultural celebration with Latin dance nights, a “Taste of Hispanic Heritage” street festival with 70+ vendors, a Kidz Zone, and even a Latin jazz performance under the stars.
For book lovers, the Lansing Literary Festival (LansingLIT) (Sept. 19–21) fills local bookstores and community spaces with readings, author talks, and a citywide bookstore crawl.
Then, closing out the month, the 2nd Annual Dance by the River Pow Wow (Sept. 27–28) at Adado Riverfront Park offers traditional Indigenous dance competitions, drum circles, artisan vendors, cultural workshops, and food — all designed to honor the Anishinaabe ancestral gathering grounds.
To make the most of it all, preparation is key. Dress in layers for Michigan’s unpredictable fall weather, wear shoes you can walk and stand in, and plan parking or rides early. Bring cash or cards for food and craft vendors, a blanket or folding chair for outdoor music sets, and a portable charger to keep your phone alive for photos and schedules. Literary festival-goers may want a tote bag handy for books.
Come ready to explore, celebrate, and take in the energy — because Lansing’s festivals aren’t just events, they’re experiences that showcase the city at its best.
