East Lansing Farmers Market Hosts Annual Autumn Fest on October 4

Fall traditions in mid-Michigan take center stage this weekend as the East Lansing Farmers Market hosts its annual Autumn Fest at Valley Court Park.

According to announcements from the East Lansing Farmers Market, the community celebration is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 4, running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 280 Valley Court. Families and local shoppers can expect a mix of seasonal activities alongside the market’s standard weekly lineup of Michigan-grown agriculture and artisan goods.

Family Activities and Live Entertainment Lineup

This year’s festival brings back several traditional fall attractions designed for all ages. Attendees will find pony rides, a petting zoo, pumpkin painting, face painting, carnival games, and lawn games scattered across the park grounds.

Community members are invited to celebrate fall at the annual Autumn Fest during the East Lansing Farmers Market (ELFM) from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4, at Valley Court Park, 280 Valley Court.Read more: https://t.co/qs632Co0Gj pic.twitter.com/rZRFNTHyQm

— https://x.com/cityofel/status/2105756331127050332

Complementing the activities, two musical acts are slated to perform live during the four-hour event. The East Lansing Farmers Market schedule features the Groove Doctors playing from 10:30 a.m. to noon, followed by StringVille performing from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Alongside the entertainment, market vendors will maintain their regular stalls offering farm-fresh Michigan produce, artisan breads, meats, flowers, honey, and maple syrup. The broader market season remains active through the end of October.

Parking Options and Accessibility

With seasonal crowds expected at Valley Court Park, organizers have outlined several parking options for visitors. Free parking is available in the non-permit spaces situated directly along the park on Oakhill Avenue, as well as spots designated for the Forster Woods Adult Day Care Facility on Hillside Court.

Additional nearby vehicle accommodations include the parking lot at the East Lansing Hannah Community Center located at 819 Abbot Road. Downtown public parking structures also offer free parking on most Sundays. Drivers looking to check real-time availability can consult the East Lansing live parking portal before arrival.

Community Support and Vendor Partnerships

The marketplace continues its accessibility initiatives by participating in several assistance programs. Shoppers can use Bridge Card, Double Up Food Bucks, Senior Project Fresh, and the Michigan Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Produce Connection.

Financial backing for the 2026 Autumn Fest comes from community sponsors, specifically the Lansing Board of Water and Light and the East Lansing Downtown Development Authority.

Organizers note that community assistance is still needed for Autumn Fest and the remaining lineup of October events, which includes Pet Adoption Day on Oct. 11, Robotics Fest on Oct. 18, and a Halloween celebration on Oct. 25. Those interested in volunteering can register through the online sign-up portal provided by the city.