Good morning, Lansing.

Local Toys for Tots organizers said that families have been applying for help since October and counties are nearing or exceeding last season’s numbers + Jackson County now expects to help 14,000 children.

Families should check their local online sign-up deadlines soon as the application deadline is Dec. 5.

Christmas Tree farms across mid-Michigan are preparing for opening weekend after Thanksgiving as brisk sales are expected despite forecasted snow showers and cold temperatures on Saturday and Sunday—local farms also offer wreaths and holiday decorations.

LFA Farmers Market, an indoor space in downtown Mason that focused on hyper-local goods from within a 15-mile radius, will permanently close on December 24 — the owners noted declining foot traffic, rising costs, and busy family schedules after nearly seven years in business.

WKAR launched its new 24/7 holiday music stream called Seasonal Sampler today at 9 a.m.—it plays classical and choral holiday pieces with a Michigan connection twice per hour until January 1.

This Thanksgiving weekend, Michigan theaters will show a range of films from new premieres like Wildcats starting today to classic holiday titles screened through November 30.

Lansing venues will feature Wicked: For Good, Zootopia 2 and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix & offer options for family outings and horror fans.

Michigan State University Extension has served the community for 118 years and now promotes its Ask Extension service as a trusted antidote to AI misinformation—Director Quentin Tyler said real experts offer detailed guidance on topics like gardening and food safety.

Residents can submit questions online to get personal, accurate advice that goes beyond quick AI answers.

MSU transfer students are finding belonging as the Transfer Student Success Center offers community dinners and runs the Spartan Transfer Hub podcast — both designed to help them connect and adjust on campus.

Many students are also joining clubs and taking diverse classes to explore interests and find support.

Michigan law does not restrict alcohol sales on Thanksgiving, so retail and on-premises businesses may operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. as usual.

Customers must be 21 or older (and employees cannot sell to visibly intoxicated persons), while sales hours are adjusted on Christmas and New Year's.

Capital Region International Airport is ready for holiday travel this Thanksgiving week as forecasts predict record numbers of travelers.

The airport offers tips such as arriving at least 90 minutes early (passengers should regularly check flight statuses) to help avoid delays.

After Rite Aid closed its stores in 2023, many former locations in Greater Lansing have been repurposed for new businesses.

A former pharmacy on Saginaw Street is being divided for tenants such as Shake Shack, Smoothie King, and retail stores—while sites in smaller communities may face more redevelopment challenges.

MSU senior Grace VanSlooten returned to play for the Spartans on Nov.

23 at the Breslin Center after a knee injury scare on Nov. 20—she scored 14 points and helped the team move to 6-0 ahead of their Bahamas trip. Coach Robyn Fralick said the team will work to get her back to full speed.

Since the 2016 season, five Greater Lansing high schools have claimed nine state champion football titles including Pewamo-Westphalia, Lansing Catholic, Morrice, DeWitt, and Portland St. Patrick.

Voting to choose the top champion is open until the end of November 28 — DeWitt will play Mount Pleasant in the Division 3 state championship on November 30 at Ford Field.

5th Annual Downtown DeWitt Turkey Trot

8 AM - 2 PM — 3 legged dog yoga + strength studio — Registration required — Kick off Thanksgiving with a family-friendly 5k fun run through Downtown DeWitt.

Friday Karaoke

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Engage in a vibrant evening of music and fun at a beloved local karaoke night with great food and drinks.

TUNE IN: December Music Showcase

7:30 PM - 1:30 AM — The Robin Theatre — Donations encouraged — An inclusive showcase for local performers and songwriters of all styles.

Friday Karaoke at The Avenue

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue — Free entry — Experience a lively karaoke night while enjoying delicious food and drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.

Breakfast with Santa 2025

9 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Lansing — $10+ — Experience a magical morning filled with breakfast, games, and a visit with Santa Claus.

60th Anniversary Reunion Celebration

2-5 p.m. — Lansing Center — $60.00 + fees — Celebrate six decades of memories with dinner, entertainment, and historical reflections.

The Wiz Musical Revival

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Wharton Center for Performing Arts — Tickets required — Experience the Tony Award-winning musical with a fresh twist on a classic tale.

World Ballet Company - The Nutcracker

7-9 p.m. — Wharton Center for Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magical ballet adaptation of The Nutcracker with enchanting performances and a classic holiday tale.

Friday Karaoke Night

9-11 p.m. — The Avenue Cafe — Free entry — Enjoy a lively night of karaoke with friends and great food from Ruckus Ramen.

Board Game Social at Summit Comics & Games

2-9 p.m. — Summit Comics & Games — Free entry — Enjoy casual gaming sessions and meet fellow gamers in a friendly environment.