Comedy, pride & music events slated

By Mallory Stiles
Editor in Chief

While this Sunday is Father’s Day and most have planned their Sunday activities, there are still more than a few cool things happening around town this weekend worth talking about.

The Future of Comedy Show at Spare Time Entertainment this Friday, June 16 promises an evening of non-stop laughter to all who attend. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 8.

Spare Time Event Manager Nick Chase coordinated the event and said he has high hopes for the Lansing comedy scene to return. He said he is happy there is a place like Spare Time to help make it happen.

“We know that the summer time can be a slow time for comedy,” Chase said, “so we are hoping to jumpstart that and keep some comics in the region busy and, hopefully, get a good crowd in for some great specials.”

Mike Ball will be headlining, accompanied by other Future of Comedy Show regulars who have been described as “must-see acts.”

“Mike Ball has been doing this for quite a number of years around this area,” Chase said. “His one-on-one skills and his interactions with the crowd are really what makes him stand out.

“He also just has a great troop of local and regional acts that come along with him.”

It was confirmed that food and drinks will be sold and tickets are still available. So if you are in the mood for a good laugh and have 20 extra bucks, see a show this Friday.

For more information, visit the Spare Time Facebook page or click here to visit the Mike Ball website and get your tickets now!

The 2023 Lansing Pride Festival will be held at the Old Town Lansing River View Lofts, located at 202 E. Grand River Ave. this Saturday, June 17 starting at 1 p.m.

There will be entertainment on a main stage, vendors, food, a beer tent and a family area to be enjoyed by all attendees, making supporting all fellow humans more fun than ever before.

A speech from Lansing Mayor Andy Schor, a drag show, face paintings, sidewalk chalk art and a wide variety of different presentations and performances can also be expected.

For more information, click here and help Lansing paint the rainbow!

The Meridian Freedom Fest: Blues & Jazz Festival will also begin at 1 p.m. this Saturday, June 17 and will be held in the Lake Lansing Park South Band Shell, located at 1621 Pike Street in Haslett.

The festival will be offering live music, dancing, yard games, vendors, food, beverages and more. Entry to the event itself is free, but parking will cost $3 for Ingham County residents and $5 for non-residents.

It’s a bit of a drive, but worth it for those who love the music and look forward to a lineup that includes Mixed Flavors, Deacon Earl Blues, and Tony Thompson & Friends, just to name a few. For more information, click here and mark the date on your calendar now.

Whatever you choose, have a fun and safe Father’s Day weekend everyone!