Public Media from Michigan State University

Giant red holiday ornaments return to downtown Lansing

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The red ornament balls in front of the Michigan State Capitol in downtown Lansing.
Sophia Saliby

Lansing’s iconic red ornament balls are back for the holiday season.

The giant red spheres, known fondly as the "Orbs of Winter," were put up at the intersection of Michigan and Washington Avenue Wednesday morning.

Mayor Andy Schor said the ornaments were scheduled to be put up Tuesday but were delayed due to the snowfall. He says seeing the ornaments means festivities are approaching.

“When the ornaments go up, it's a sign that we are getting into the holiday season," Schor said. "It’s just part of one of those things where folks love seeing them go up."

The orbs’ return comes ahead of Lansing's Silver Bells in the City celebration this Friday. Several streets will be closed to vehicle traffic downtown.

Schor said he’s looking forward to the event and celebrating the arrival of the holiday season.

“It's just a great opportunity to be downtown with so many people, have some hot chocolate, and be with family,” he said.

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Arjun Thakkar is WKAR's politics and civics reporter.