How students are spending St. Patrick’s Day in East Lansing 

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WEDNESDAY, March 17 — It’s St. Patrick’s Day in East Lansing, and while the college town isn’t exactly a madhouse, it’s certainly not a socially distanced ghost town either.

Plenty of young Michigan State University students were seen downtown, roaming up and down Grand River Avenue in large, close-knit groups, cases of beer and bottles of liquor in tow. Local bars like The Riv and Tin Can, which are currently limited to 50% capacity, seem to have a readily available supply of patrons. Spartan Spirits on Ann Street also has a steady flow of customers coming in and out to buy booze and more.

Some students said this year’s celebration has been more low-key than usual. MSU juniors Nina, 20, and Caroline, 21, said they plan to spend the day at their friend’s apartment before heading out to Harper’s Restaurant and Brewpub later this evening.

“I feel like normally, there would be way more people out here. There’s only going to be about six of us there. Normally, it would be a big party,” Nina said. 

Both Nina and Caroline said they weren’t in East Lansing for last year’s St. Patrick’s Day, as students moved off campus while the university transitioned to entirely online classes. 

Further down M.A.C. Avenue today, there were a number of houses that appeared to be throwing parties on their front lawns and front porch steps. Elsewhere across campus, plenty of smaller parties and outdoor games of beer pong were being played outdoors.

A St. Patrick's Day order from East Lansing Mayor Aaron Stephens limits all outdoor gatherings to no more than 15 people and prohibits outdoor lines for entry into businesses, bars and restaurants through 2 a.m. tomorrow. The idea: Temporarily limit the ability for St. Patrick’s Day parties to spin out of control within the city.

There wasn’t a visibly heavy police presence downtown this afternoon, but the East Lansing Police Department made a Facebook post of its own, warning of increased drunk driving patrols taking place today and throughout the weekend. Last year’s St. Patrick’s Day was unique for the city as no arrests were made. No word on today.

Masks are also required across much of East Lansing. Violations can result in fines of up to $25. Any licensed establishment that violates the statewide 11 p.m. curfew also risks suspension or revocation of its liquor and business licenses. State law also requires adherence to local law. Report violations to the East Lansing Police Department by calling 517-251-4220, option 2.

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  • AubreyMarron

    Actually, the ELPD phone number is 517-351-4220.

    Tuesday, March 23, 2021 Report this




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