Urban Garden & Patio Tour is Aug. 10

By Mallory Stiles
Editor in Chief

The Old Town Commercial Association (OTCA) is hosting the first “Urban Garden & Patio Tour” event since the pandemic this Saturday, Aug. 10, from noon to 5 p.m.

The OTCA is a non-profit organization committed to the revitalization of Lansing’s historic Old Town district. OTCA Executive Director Samantha Benson said this event is specifically about exposing Lansing’s existing assets.

“We are really excited to showcase some of our resident’s privately owned gardens and patios, as well as a few public spaces,” Benson said. “There are just a bunch of different venues that show the beauty of Old Town.”

The ticket price is $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the event. Benson confirmed that every dollar raised will be given back to the city almost immediately. So, click here to buy yours now while it’s still a deal!

“It all goes toward a good cause,” Benson said. “All of the proceeds go back into the community, towards things like education, trash pick-up and events for the community.”

The day’s events, according to Benson, all begins with a map.

“Any ticket holders, or people looking to buy tickets the day of, will be able to meet us at Matthew Ryan Salon & Garden, and that will act as the first stop of the tour,” she said. “Upon check in, every person will receive a map of all the spaces included in the tour, their descriptions, fun facts, as well as any kind of promotions, sales or specials that are going on in conjunction with the tour.”

Everyone should know there will be no official tour guide. Individuals or groups will lead themselves, allowing everyone to go at their own pace.

“It is an independent or self-guided tour,” Benson explained. “That basically means everyone grabs their map and they get to take their time going through the spaces. That way they get to explore AND enjoy the district at the same time.

“We don’t want to rush anyone.”

The OTCA will continue to keep a close eye on the weather during the next few days, but as of now, everything is set to go off without a hitch.

“It’s supposed to be beautiful,” Benson said, bringing things to a close. “We are expecting it to be 71 degrees and only partly cloudy. We definitely recommend sunscreen. Be sure to bring water and stay hydrated, but really just be ready to explore some interesting spaces that truly are hidden gems.”