Events

October 12 – May 3 — Pickin in the Park, Lansing. Indoor jam sessions at Grand Cafe Sir Pizza, 201 E. Grand River host a “Welcome back Pickers” party. Pickin in the Park is a bi-monthly event held the first and third Tuesday of every month. Performers will be at Grand Cafe Sir Pizza until the weather warms up in May. Runs from 6-9 p.m. Call (517) 485-4283 or visit www.iloveoldtown.org.

November 13 — Run-A-Munk, Lansing. Woldumar Nature Center, 5739 Old Lansing Rd., to host their Annual Run-A-Munk 5k run/walk. Runners and walkers, this is a great opportunity to join in the fun of visiting these beautiful trails. Awards will be given in Running and Competitive Walking to Overall, Master and Grandmaster male and female, as well as, to the top three finishers in each age division. 5K runners and walkers will begin at 10 a.m., while all 10K runners and competitive walkers will begin at 10:15 a.m. Pre-registered entries will receive a T-shirt. Early Packet: Nov. 12 at Playmakers, Okemos from 4-7 p.m. Call David (517) 627-1251 or Lori (517) 322-0030 or visit www.playmakers.com.

November 16 — Inner Circle Fall Luncheon, East Lansing. The Wharton Center Inner Circle is hosting their annual Fall Luncheon to the magic of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins. This event is open to all members, guests and interested community members. Held at the University Club and begins at 11:30 a.m. Call (517) 349-6303.

November 16 — Taste of Home, Lansing. This cooking and trade show takes place from 4-9 p.m. at the Causeway Bay Hotel & Convention Center, 6820 S. Cedar St. Learn tricks for the kitchen and pick up tips on creating lasting recipes. Cost is $10, tickets are available at www.wqtx.net. Visit www.tasteofhome.com.

November 18 — Go Green Holiday Event, Lansing. Go Green Holiday Event will be held in the lobby and plaza of Lansing City Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Local vendors are invited to sell produce, baked goods, crafts and local and handmade gifts. If interested in being a vendor please call (517) 483-4597 or visit www.gogreen@lansingmi.gov.

November 19 — Silver Bells in the City, Lansing. Hosted by Downtown Lansing, Inc., this free, family holiday event celebrates in the heart of downtown Lansing with an electric light parade, State Capital Christmas Tree lighting and fireworks. Activities start at 5 p.m., the parade starts at 6 p.m. immediately followed by the tree lighting and fireworks. Call (517) 487-3322 or visit www.silverbellsinthecity.org.

November 20 — Corn Fed Girls: Concert, Lansing. The Corn Fed Girls possess a unique ability to inject their live show with humor while performing original songs that simultaneously challenge and comfort the listener. Their instrumental line up can be considered traditional; however, their musical arrangements most certainly span the gap between old and new. Sharing the lead vocal duties between all six members of the band definitely puts them in a league all their own. The Corn Fed Girls weave a musical cloth that is durable and comfortable; familiar yet mysterious. Jam at Elderly Instrument, 1100 N. Washington, from 5-6 p.m. This in-store performance is free. Call (517) 372-7880 or visit www.elderly.com.

November 21 — Lansing Model Train Show & Sale, East Lansing. All aboard Michigan’s largest train show hosted by the Lansing Model Railroad Club. Get inspired by watching trains run over 10 different big and small layouts. Shop around hundreds of tables for new models, toy trains, artwork, books, DVD’s, collectibles, and antique railroad memorabilia. Learn from the experts on how to build a model railroad empire of your dreams at various how-to demonstrations. It’s a train load of fun for everyone! Held at the Michigan State University Pavilion, 4301 Farm Lane, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (517) 321-6776 or visit www.lmrc.org/trainshow.com.

November 26 — Mason Holidays Celebration, Mason. Fun will roll down the streets in downtown Mason. From 6 p.m. on you’ll find entertainment, a lighted parade, from Cobblestone Village to Courthouse Square, Santa visits the Mason Museum, living Nativity, shopping and so much more for the entire family. Still need volunteers and participants. Call (517) 676-1046 or visit www.masonchamber.org.

November 26 – December 26 — Wonderland of Lights, Lansing. During the holiday season, the Potter Park Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland. The event features thousands of lights creating extraordinary animal exhibits and holiday displays, strolling carolers, musical performances, cookie decorating and more! Don’t miss out on this family tradition! And while you’re here, don’t forget to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Zoovenir Store on Fridays and Saturdays. Wonderland of Lights is open Thurs. through Sun. 5-8 p.m. only. Closed Christmas Eve/Day. $2/ages 3-15; $4/ages 16-59; $3/ages 60+; free admittance for Zoo Society members. Call (517) 342-2718 or visit www.potterparkzoo.org.

November 28 — ABBA Mania, East Lansing. Recreating ABBA in concert, ABBA Mania has sold out shows throughout the world. It has become the world’s most successful touring ABBA show. Take a chance on ABBA Mania … you won’t be disappointed! Rock on at the MSU Concert Auditorium, 149 Auditorium, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Tickets: $42.00, $32.00. Call (800)-Wharton or visit www.whartoncenter.com.

December 3 — Annual Christmas Parade, Grand Ledge. Family fun to kick off the Holiday Season including a Lighted Float Parade through town ending with Santa at the Sun Theater. Step Off time will be 7 p.m. Call (517) 627-2383 or visit www.grandledgemi.com/events.

December 4 — 8th Annual Craft Show & Festival of Trees, St. Johns. The Clinton County Chamber of Commerce will host this wonderful event which includes Breakfast with Santa, Festival of Trees, Children’s Make It & Take It Crafts and a Craft Show. All events held at the CC RESA Bldg., 1013 S. US 27. For times and small fees call (989) 224-7248 or visit www.clintoncountychamber.org.

December 4 — Songs of Winter, East Lansing. Join us at the Wharton Center for the Performing Arts for a celebration of the winter season, an evening that will set the tone for one of the holiest times of year, no matter how you celebrate. “Winter” from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons evokes swirling snow and icy rain, brought to life by Concertmaster Seunghee Lee. Rutter’s When Icicles Hang showcases the chorus in a cycle of songs celebrating winter. And finally, Bloch’s Sacred Service invokes the spirit of a synagogue service with its use of chorus and cantor, delivered by powerful and dramatic Baritone David Small. With its rich, harmonic language, Bloch’s Sacred Service has the power to rejuvenate any winter evening from 8-10:30 p.m. Call (517) 487-5001 or visit www.lansingsymphony.org.

December 5 — Christmas in the Village, Okemos. Join Santa and friends for an old-fashioned Christmas in the Meridian Historical Village, 5113 Marsh Rd. Historic buildings will be open and decorated for the holidays. Volunteers in period-dress will share some of the old traditions of Christmas a long time ago. Gift shop open. Free event from 2-5 p.m. Call (517) 347-7300 or visit www.merhistvill.org.

December 10-12 — Liquidation Sale, Lansing. The Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Ave., will host this event with such items as computers (laptops and desktops), electronics, mp3 players, games and gaming equipment, GPS, clothing, shoes, perfume, gold and tons more. Admission: adults $8, kids: 12 and under are free. For show times call (517) 483.7400 or visit www.lansingcenter.com.

December 11 —Jingle Belle 5K Run/Walk for Women, Lansing. This road race will be held at the Delta Township District Library, 5130 Davenport Dr. Start time is 10 a.m. Call Cherry Hamrick (517) 321-4014 or email delta5k@dtdl.org.

Arts

October 1 – November 30 — Lobby Art Show, Lansing. Riverwalk Theatre announces Lobby Art Show in their newly remodeled lobby by local artist Gretchen Foster. Gretchen’s show features watercolors of various subjects and landscapes. This show is at no charge and can be viewed by the public during our daytime hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday and during evening and weekend performances. Our next artist will be Carolyn Donahue, Dec. 1 – Jan. 30. Call (517) 482-5700 or visit www.riverwalktheatre@acd.net.

November 11, 12, 13, 14 — Music History, East Lansing. Music History, a new play by Sandra Seaton, directed by John Lepard, about African American college students during the civil rights movement of the sixties. Held at the MSU Arena Theatre. Tickets: $12. For specific times, visit www.whartoncenter.com/boxoffice/listings.

November 12 — Elder HeART, East Lansing. Elder HeART tours for people living with memory loss, Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia and those who care for them. Carefully designed tours led by specially trained docents stimulate lively, thoughtful conversations in this fun, social, creative and meaningful outing to the Kresge Art Museum, MSU. Elder HeART invite participants and caregivers to observe, interpret, enjoy and share their thoughts about art and life from many cultures, time periods and artistic points of view. Session is free and begins at 2 p.m., but pre-registration is required. Call Cari (517) 884-0653 or visit www.artmuseum.msu.edu.

November 20 — In the Mood, Charlotte. Take a sentimental journey back in time with the music of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, The Andrews Sisters, Frank Sinatra and others. In the Mood is a Big Band Theatrical Swing Revue featuring singers and dancers with the sensational String of Pearls Big Band Orchestra. The music and arrangements, 1940s-era costumes and choreography are as authentic as it gets. A Prime Rib Dinner & Show package is $43/person. Dinner is served at the Eaton Area Senior Center. Fees: $34/person or $24/student. Performance is at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 378 State St, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Call (517) 541-5690 or visit www.cpacpresents.com.

November 21 — The Circus, Grand Ledge. Pops Concert by Lansing Theater Organ Society at 3 p.m. at the Grand Ledge Opera House. Silent Movie: The Circus (1928), featuring Charlie Chaplin; Fr. Andrew Rogers, organist. Call (517) 627-1443 or visit www.gloperahouse.com.

December 10 — Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver Holiday Concert, Charlotte. Awarded the Vocal Group of the Year for seven consecutive years (2001-2007) by the International Bluegrass Music Association and a National Endowment for the Arts Heritage awardee, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver’s energetic stage performance can bring an audience to its feet with their hot picking and silence a crowd with their soaring gospel singing. Dinner & Show package is $35/person. Fees: $28/person and held at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 378 State St, at 7:30 p.m. Call (517) 541-5690 or visit www.cpacpresents.com.

Exhibits

September 26 – February 12 — Petticoat Patriots: How Michigan Women Won the Vote, Lansing. In celebration of the 90th anniversary of women’s suffrage, the Michigan Women’s Historical Center, 213 W. Main St., is proud to present a new history exhibit that explores how the women’s suffrage movement unfolded in Michigan and features the stories of more than 20 Michigan women who became leading suffragists. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the engaging stories, images and artifacts. The exhibit also features many interactive elements, such as a voting booth and places for visitors to share their own ideas. Wednesday-Saturday noon to 4 p.m., Sunday 2-4 p.m. Call (517) 484-1880 or visit www.michiganwomenshalloffame.org.

October 3 – November 28 — “Investigations: Collections from Life”, East Lansing. Kim Kauffman, a Lansing, Michigan artist, will present her new body of work – the garden of her mind. Kim was Mackerel Sky’s first exhibiting artist in 1990. Kim will be presenting a talk on Nov. 4 at 6 p m., 211 Ann St. Plaza, for everyone to enjoy. Call (517) 351-2211 or visit www.mackerelsky.com.

October 9 – December 17 — The Power of Design, East Lansing. Perspectives Gallery, Kresge Art Museum. This exhibition of international textiles, costumes and costume accessories from MSU’s Apparel & Textile Design collection shows how design can symbolically communicate order and hierarchy, as well as religious-philosophical thought, technological innovation and beauty. Call (517) 884-0659 or visit www.artmuseum.msu.edu.

December 4-29 — Woodland Indian Art Market, Okemos. Nokomis Learning Center, 5153 Marsh Rd., will be open Saturdays and Sundays during this event from noon to 6 p.m. Great Lakes Native American artists will display their work for the entire month of December. We will feature a different artist every weekend. They will be on hand demonstrating their style of work and to sell some of their work. Come and meet the artists, and see them at work. There will be a variety of items: Jewelry, black ash baskets, corn husk dolls, porcelain masks, Christmas ornaments, and Native-made lotion, soap, candles, and body wash. Free event. Donations welcome. Call (517) 349-5777 or visit www.nokomis.org.

Clinics

November 1, 4, 5 — Life Skills, Abundance and Energy, Bath. Any of us can take charge of our lives and go with the flow of life, or against it. Learn to go with the flow! Have more energy for yourself, your family, your work and free time – experience life’s abundance. These workshops, from 7-8:15 p.m., can help you to see what blocks you from living an abundant, happy life … now is the time! Cost is $90, please ask about a bursary if you cannot afford the full fee. Preregistration required. Call (517) 641-6201 or visit www.selfrealizationcentremichigan.org.

November 4 — Flavor Tripping Party, Lansing. Step into a flavorful evening from 5-7 p.m. at Perspective 2 in Old Town, 319 E. Grand River, for an experiment on your taste buds and try “The World’s Best Fruit!” Also known as the Miracle Berry, this fruit transforms almost everything you eat into a sweet treat! Guests will be able to sample the berry and for up to 30 minutes, foods with a sour or mild taste will taste like delicious desserts! Participants will experiment with foods such as lemons, limes, hot sauce, yogurt, cheese and more! Email lisa@theworldsbestfruit.com.

November 6 — Fox Park Public Observatory, Potterville. View Jupiter and the Autumn Milky Way — start dressing warm! Everyone is invited to join in at the Fox Park Public Observatory, 3979 E. Gresham Hwy., for a variety of observatory programs this fall. The Observatory is inside the park in the far northwest corner past the beach area and new restroom facility. Participants will need to park in the main parking lot and wear sturdy shoes for the 200 yard trek up to the Observatory. This is an open air observatory so dress for the out of doors from 8-11 p.m. Program fee is $2/person or $5/family. Call (517) 645-6666 or visit www.eatoncounty.org/departments.

November 9 — UM-Flint at LCC: Advising Day, Lansing. Join us in the lobby of the University Center at Lansing Community College from 2-6 p.m. where members of our staff will provide information about our Nursing (RN-BSN) and Health Care Administration programs at LCC, as well as advising for current students. Call (517) 483-9727 or visit http://lcc.umflint.edu.

November 12 — Dramatization and Context, East Lansing. Dramatization and Context, a symposium and roundtable about Sandra Seaton’s new play Music History and the legal and moral issues raised by it will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the third floor of the MSU Museum. Free admission and refreshments. Visit www.law.msu.edu/musichistory.

November 11 — Diabetes Education, Lansing. Living with diabetes can be life changing since many choices are subject to the whims of this disease. Join diabetes experts Drs. Leslie Searls, Andrea Simons, Joseph Wilhelm and David Wenkert for a panel discussion about the diabetes disease process, how it can affect the eyes and vascular system, and successful management and treatment of this condition. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and presentation starts at 6 p.m. Free at the Ingham Regional Medical Center’s Dawe Auditorium, 2720 S. Washington Ave. Call (517) 975-6600 or e-mail jessica.nevins@irmc.org.

November 14 — Tales of the White-tail: Program & Walk, Okemos. We see them everywhere we go; in the woods, on the way to work, in our yards and even on vacation. What are they? White-tail Deer. Find out more about this beautiful creature and go on a guided walk to see signs of their passing through the woods at the Harris Nature Center, 3998 Van Atta Rd. from 3-5 p.m. The fee is $3/person or $7/family, due at the time of the program. Call (517) 349-3866 or visit www.meridian.mi.us.

November 14 — Guided Meditation Workshop, Lansing. As the holidays approach, stillness becomes more important than ever to remain peaceful and calm mentally and emotionally. Seasonal mood changes affect many people and we need to cultivate and focus on positive energy and change to carry us through those moments. Tap into the power that you hold to effectively change the weather of your spirit. Sessions held at Hilltop Yoga studio, 108 E. Grand River, from 3-5 p.m. No yoga or meditation experience necessary; all levels welcome. Cost is $30 beforehand or $40 at the door. Visit www.hilltopyoga.com.

November 30 — Annual Health Fair, Charlotte.  The Eaton County Medical Care Facility will present to the community its annual health fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at their facility, 530 W. Beech St. Health screenings will be available such as hearing, vision and spinal screenings, as well as cholesterol and blood pressure checks. Visitors will also have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win a gift basket valued at over $1,000. All members of the community are welcome to attend. Visit www.ecmcf.org.

December 4 — Pure Meditation Foundation Class for Adults, Bath. Conquer stress, improve concentration and find inner peace with Joanne Rowe, certified SRMHC UK teacher from the Self Realization Meditation Healing Centre 11-12:30. Cost is $49/person. Preregistration required. Call (517) 641-6201 or visit www.selfrealizationcentremichigan.org

Fundraisers

November 5 — In Her Cups. Dimondale. We invite you to join us at “In Her Cups” Bras for a Cause Art Auction and Fundraiser. Hand crafted, decorated bras will be judged for “most creative,” “most humorous,” “largest” and an award will be presented for “Best of Cup.” Art will be auctioned by both silent auction and a live auctioneer, Dennis Beals. Held at Cricket’s, 9755 Woodland Dr. from 5-8 p.m. Appetizers and cocktails will be provided by Dusty’s Cellar. Tickets $25 and can be purchased at the door. Call (517) 372-9163.

November 6 — 3^rd Annual d’Ear 10k Trail Race, Lansing. Promises to challenge and inspire! 10k Trail Race and new this year, a 5k Nature Walk, designed to be non-competitive (children welcome with parents). This event will benefit The Listening Ear Crisis Intervention Center. It will take place along the scenic Lake Lansing North Park trail. The race begins at 10 a.m. This is a USATF sanctioned event. Finishers and participants will be awarded prizes and are automatically entered into a drawing for gifts donated by local businesses. Participants are welcome to refuel at the chili cook-off. Call The Listening Ear (517) 337-1717 or www.thelisteningear.net or www.playmakers.com.

November 8 — Lansing Signature Chefs Auction, East Lansing. A fundraising event for the March of Dimes, the Lansing Signature Chefs Auction features culinary experts and the food they prepare along with silent and live auction packages including romantic get-aways and more. The event takes place at the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center on Michigan State University’s campus. Appetizers and a silent auction preview begin at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $100 each. Call (517)-699-4863.

November 12 — Dress! Charitable Fashion Extravaganza, Lansing. The event will take place at the famous Turner-Dodge House, 100 N. East St. Open house begins at 11:30 a.m. and lasts until 4:30 p.m. All proceeds will go to St. Vincent Catholic Charities. Highlights: 5 fashion shows, 5 featured surprise guests, 5 fantastic prize drawings, and 5 salon services provided by Pure Day Spa & Salon. Michigan State University Football Star and NFL player T.J. Duckett headlines a star studded celebrity lineup. General charge is $25 and 5 items donated for admission. VIP charge $35, plus 5 items for donation. VIP privileges include appetizers provided by Dublin Square Irish Pub and VIP Room Access. Email lwall@lisawallinteriordesign.com or visit www.dressevent.com.

November 15, 17, 18, 19 — Jewelry & Accessories, Lansing. This semi-annual fund raiser includes a huge variety of merchandise such as rings, watches, seasonal scarves, bracelets, earrings, necklace sets, wallets, tote bags and more. All by a reputable company and everything is $5. Cash, credit card and checks accepted. All proceeds benefit the Sparrow Substance Abuse Unit and is sponsored by the Mary Magdalen League of St. Lawrence. The sale runs 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 15 at the St. Lawrence Campus Clark Conference Center, 1210 W. Saginaw St; 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Nov. 17-18 and 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 19 at the Sparrow Professional Bldg., 3rd Flr. Atrium, 1215 E. Michigan Ave. Call (517) 364-7179.

November 18 — Ele’s Place Fall Reception, Lansing. Ele’s Place, a healing center for grieving children, will hold its 16^th Annual Fall Reception from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Country Club of Lansing. Michigan Supreme Court Justice, Stephen J. Markman, will be the featured guest of honor. Attendees will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Reservations may be made for $100 each and are available through Nov. 10 by calling (517) 482-1315. This year’s reception is chaired by Tim Staudt and Becky Dantonio. Proceeds from the event will benefit Ele’s Place. Call (517) 482-1315 visit www.elesplace.org.

November 20 — The Jingle Ball, Lansing. The Michigan History Foundation invites you to a premier holiday event from 7-11 p.m. The Jingle Ball raises funds that every year help 80,000 children discover Michigan history. Valet parking and a luxurious red carpet leads you and your friends into a world of holiday elegance! Black tie is encouraged. Musical entertainment, an array of sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and beverages. The Michigan Historical Museum is located inside the Michigan Library and Historical Center, 702 W. Kalamazoo. Visitor parking is on the north side of Kalamazoo, two blocks east of M. L. King Jr. Blvd. Admission and weekend parking are free. Visit www.michigan.gov.

November 20 — 85^th Annual Sparrow Hospital Charity Ball, Lansing. The Sparrow Hospital Guild’s annual Charity Ball is traditionally the formal social event of the year in the community. The black tie optional affair will be held at one of Lansing’s finest dining establishments, The Country Club of Lansing. Festivities begin at 7 p.m., dinner chimes will sound at 8 p.m. with dancing to follow. John Dale Smith-J&J Sounds will once again provide the music. With the generosity of area individuals and businesses, the Charity Ball has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Sparrow Hospital. This year’s proceeds will continue to support the cancer services at Sparrow. Make this “A Night to Remember”. Visit www.sparrow.org.

November 25 — 10^th Annual Lansing Turkeyman Trot, Lansing. Scenic, accurate 5k through Downtown Lansing. This run/walk beings at 9 a.m. at Lansing Community College on Grand Ave. between Shiawassee and Saginaw. Free parking at LCC Parking Garage on Grand. Proceeds will go to Youth Track Clubs in Michigan to help runners attend national track and CC meets. Call (517) 702-0226 or visit www.runningfoundation.com.

December 3 — Holiday Boutique 2010, Lansing. This annual event held by the Ingham County Medical Society Alliance welcomes all to the Sparrow Professional Building in their Atrium from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with all proceeds to support local medical and nursing scholarships. Additionally, this year a donation to the SANE Room (Sexual Assault Nurse Examination Room) at Sparrow’s ER will be made. Event features more than 20 exceptional local vendors for unique shopping opportunities, local choirs, Bob McCloy guitar and mandolin, Sparty, Santa …who doesn’t show up for Holiday Boutique? Call (517) 336-9019 or email tguastella@msms.org.

December 3, 4, 5 Festival of Trees, Lansing. Help local non-profits and get into the holiday spirit during the Festival of Trees. The event runs 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday at the Lansing Center. Families are invited to check out holiday craft vendors, enjoy live entertainment, a puppet show, a giant gingerbread house display and more. Most importantly, residents are invited to check out the more than 150 trees and wreaths decorated by local non-profits, churches and schools. Sunday the trees and wreaths will be raffled off to benefit the organization that decorated the item. Entry to the event is $5, raffle tickets sold separately.

December 4 — Toys for Tots, Lansing. During Potter Park Zoo’s Wonderland of Lights, from 5-8 p.m., each person who brings in a new, unwrapped toy will be admitted to Wonderland of Lights for free. All toys will be donated to Toys for Tots. Call (517) 342-2718 or visit www.potterparkzoo.org.