Good Morning Grand Rapids!

Happy Halloween! Spooky season is coming into full bloom this week, with Halloween coming on Friday. There’s scary movies galore to get in the Halloween spirit, plus music to put you under its spell, including a particularly magical performance of the Lord of the Rings’ score by the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra.

Let’s get into it! 🎃 

📰 This Week’s Grand Stories

🎬 LOTR in Concert Hits DeVos: The Grand Rapids Symphony will be performing Howard Shore’s full Fellowship of the Ring score live to film at DeVos Performance Hall this Friday and Saturday - a perfect Halloween-weekend plan for fans and families alike.

📜 New Eastown Marker Honors Indigenous Trade Routes: A new permanent marker in Eastown recognizes centuries of Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians history - a small but meaningful addition to local storytelling and acknowledgment of place.

🦛 Hello, Hugo: JBZ’s Baby Pygmy Hippo Meets Members: John Ball Zoo introduced “Hugo,” its new pygmy hippo calf, at a members-only preview - a charming conservation milestone with plenty of heart.

📣 Forest Hills Northern Student Rallies 1,000+ Signatures: A senior is leading a petition to reinstate the school’s athletic trainer, underscoring student advocacy and community concern for athlete safety.

💧 Byron Twp Neighbors Flag Water/Sewer Project Side Effects: Residents near the Phase 2 utility upgrade say the growth-minded project has affected wells and water quality. Township officials are listening.

🥫 Grand Haven Pantry Braces Families for SNAP Pause: With a benefits pause looming, food pantries are seeing record demand and gearing up to meet rising community needs.

💛 EGR’s ‘Hearts of Gold’ Students Show Up Big: East Grand Rapids students once again united for “Hearts of Gold,” raising funds and spirits for a local nonprofit in true hometown style.

🎃 Grandville Family Opens a Free Backyard Haunted House — What started as a small neighborhood effort has grown into The Hollow Manor, a full-blown local Halloween tradition - all for free.

⛽ Gas Relief on Deck: Analysts See Sub-$3 Average by Weekend: After a short-term price spike, West Michigan drivers could see gas dip back under $3 per gallon by week’s end.

🔥 Walker Firefighter’s Side-Gig: Protecting Art & Archives — A Walker firefighter is using his disaster-recovery skills to help museums and archives preserve priceless cultural.

🎥 Cedar Springs’ Kent Theatre Goes Full Community with Free “Beetlejuice”: The historic Kent Theatre is offering free Halloween-weekend showings of Beetlejuice - classic movie, classic community spirit.

🍔 Rosie’s Diner Headed for Restoration: A beloved Rockford icon is bound for Alabama, where it will undergo a full restoration - keeping the retro magic alive.

📆 This Week’s Grand Events

Wednesday, October 29

The Tempest with Deos Contemporary Ballet – Schuler Books – Catch a mesmerizing sneak peek of The Tempest with members of Deos Contemporary Ballet, followed by an intimate discussion on adapting classic literature for dance. - 6:00 PM/Free

2025 GRCMC Open House – Grand Rapids Community Media Center – Tour the studios, meet local creators, and explore how community media keeps Grand Rapids’ creative pulse alive. 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM/Free

Slow Flow + Meowditation – Happy Cat Cafe – Unwind with a gentle yoga flow surrounded by adoptable cats — the city’s most adorable path to mindfulness. 6:30 PM - 7:50 PM/$30

Mushroomhead – The Intersection – Cleveland’s masked metal legends bring their theatrical, high-energy performance to The Intersection for one darkly spectacular night. Doors: 6 PM, Show: 6:45 PM/$41.90

Thursday, October 30

The Birds - Wealthy Theatre – Grand Rapids’ Audobon Society are helping to spread the love of our fine feathered friends with a special screening of Alfred Hitchcock’s adaptation of Daphne Du Maurier’s The Birds. 7:30 PM/$10 General Admission / $8 CMC & Wealthy Theatre Members – Link

Kip Moore – The Intersection – Country hitmaker Kip Moore brings his gritty, high-energy live show to downtown Grand Rapids for one night only. 7:30 PM/$54.90-$242.65

Howl-O-Ween – Speciation Cellars – Bring your pups for a festive evening of costumes, craft cider, and canine camaraderie at Speciation Cellars. 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM/Free

Westside Trunk or Treat – 1440 Davis Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI – A family-friendly neighborhood celebration with treats, costumes, and community spirit on Grand Rapids’ Westside. 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM/Free

Black Creatives Summit – Wealthy Theatre – A powerful gathering spotlighting Black artistry, entrepreneurship, and storytelling across Grand Rapids’ creative scene. 6:00 PM/Free

Ghosts of Grand Rapids Walking Tour – Front steps of Grand Rapids Public Library – Explore the city’s haunted history with a moonlit guided tour through downtown’s most legendary ghost stories. 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM/$20

Nathan Walton - Rapid River Stillhouse – Local soul-rock favorite Nathan Walton brings smooth vocals and warm vibes to the Stillhouse for a cozy evening set. 6:00 PM/Free

Friday, October 31

Grand Rapids Symphony presents Lord of the Rings – DeVos Performance Hall – Journey to Middle-earth as the Grand Rapids Symphony performs Howard Shore’s epic score live alongside the film. 7:00 PM/Price Varies

The Scream Queens – General Wood Shop – A fierce lineup of drag and performance art brings thrills, chills, and campy horror glamour to Bridge Street’s General Wood Shop. 8:00 PM - 2:00 AM/$10

The Rumors Halloween Party – Rumors Night Club – Dance the night away at one of Grand Rapids’ most vibrant costume parties, where spooky meets fabulous. 8:00 PM - 2:00 AM/$10

Brick or Treat – Bricks & Minifigs Grand Rapids – Kids and families can celebrate Halloween with LEGO-themed fun, prizes, and plenty of building magic.10:00 AM - 8:00 PM/Free

Halloween with Third Coast Swing – Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill – Dress up and dance to a night of gypsy jazz and vintage swing from Michigan favorites Third Coast Swing. 8:00 PM/$10 Online/$12 at Door

Spirits & Spells: A Spooky Night at IDC – IDC – Sip themed cocktails and enjoy enchanting lounge vibes at downtown’s stylish speakeasy-inspired Halloween soirée. 8:00 PM - 11:45 PM/$10

Trick-or-Treat at the Museum – Grand Rapids Children's Museum – Families can explore hands-on exhibits while little ones collect treats in a safe, playful indoor setting. 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM/Free with admission.

Saturday, November 1

Hot ‘N Dangerous – The Stache at The Intersection – Turn up the heat with a high-energy night of pop, dance, and throwback anthems in The Stache’s intimate club space. 9 PM/Price Varies

Under a Harvest Moon - Fall Handbell Concert – Salvation Army Kroc Center – Enjoy the shimmering sounds of handbells ringing in the autumn season with this cozy community concert. 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Cyclops – Elevation – Lose yourself in the electrifying bass and audiovisual spectacle of Cyclops’ immersive live set. Doors: 8 PM / Show: 9 PM/$22.15 - $35.40

Autumn Arrangements – Spruced Studio – Create your own fall floral masterpiece while learning the art of seasonal design at this hands-on workshop. 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM/$55

Blankets & Bellinis – Spruced Studio – Sip, stitch, and socialize as you craft a cozy handmade blanket — complete with brunch bites and bubbly.10:00 AM - 1:30 PM/$85

Denim & Pearls – Inex Studios – An evening of style and sparkle featuring live music, fashion, and community vibes with a touch of glam. 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM/$65

Gathered Botanicals Immune Supportive Tinctures, Educational Drop-in – Gathered Botanicals – Stop by for herbal wisdom and wellness tips while sampling handcrafted tinctures from Gathered Botanicals. 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM/Free

The Downtown Chili Throwdown – Gimme's Par & Grill – Warm up with a friendly downtown cook-off as local chefs compete for chili bragging rights and community votes. 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM/$12.51

Sunday, November 2

Let All the World In Every Corner Sing: Calvin University Cappella Choir – Trinity Lutheran Church – An intimate evening of world-class chamber performances in one of Grand Rapids’ most elegant music venues. 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM/Free

Josh Ritter – St. Cecilia Music Center - Come out to St. Cecilia’s for a sneak peak of Josh Ritter’s outstanding new acoustic album, I Believe In You, My Honeydew. 7:00 PM/$40-$70

KPop Demon Hunters A Sing-Along Event – Wealthy Theatre – Join fellow fans for an interactive screening packed with music, energy, and KPop-fueled fun for all ages. 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM/$5-$12

Trillium at Sacred Springs Micro Taproom – Sacred Springs Micro Taproom – Relax and recharge with live acoustic tunes and craft kombucha in an intimate taproom setting. 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM/Free

Merchants and Makers Holiday Market at Fulton Street Market – Fulton Street Market – Shop handmade gifts and local goods from dozens of West Michigan artisans at this beloved seasonal market. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM/$3 adults, kids free

Gasolina Party – GLC Live at 20 Monroe – Dance all night to the hottest reggaeton and Latin beats at this high-energy party that lights up downtown. 9:00 PM/$24 - $54

Grand Rapids Griffins vs Rockford - Van Andel - Home opener-style hype, easy parking on Sundays. 4 PM/Prices vary.

All Time Low - Everyone’s Talking! Tour - GLC Live - Pop-punk chorus night; teens will be wired, parents will survive. 6 PM/$64 - $140

“1995” Tribute - Benefit for AYA Youth Collective - The Pyramid Scheme — Hear local musicians cover everything from Radiohead to Silverchair while raising money for youth facing homelessness. 6 PM/$17

Alberto Lombardi - Tip Top Deluxe - World-class guitar in a cozy room; cheap date night. 7 PM/$23.25

Date Night: Cocktails & Comedy - Sidebar - Underground comedy plus strong cocktails to end the weekend on a laugh. 8–9:30 PM/$23.18

GRAM: Día de los Muertos ofrenda - Grand Rapids Art Museum - Quiet cultural stop before or after dinner; reflective and beautiful. All Day/Free with admission.

Monday, November 3

🎬 GRFS Presents: Yi Yi - Wealthy Theatre - GRFS screens Yi Yi, Edward Yang’s multilayered family drama, with thoughtful musical and cinematic accompaniment in the intimate Wealthy Theatre setting. 7 PM/Price Varies.

State Champs - The Stache at The Intersection - Pop-punk favorites State Champs bring infectious hooks and high-energy stage presence to the city on their tour stop in Grand Rapids. 7:30 PM/Price varies.

Tuesday, November 4

Broadway Grand Rapids Presents The Book of Mormon - DeVos Performance Hall - This Tony-winning, laugh-out-loud musical brings its irreverent humor and high-energy song-and-dance to downtown Grand Rapids for one night only. 7:30 PM/Price Varies

A Day to Remember & Yellowcard – Maximum Fun Tour - Van Andel Arena - Rock fans, get ready: this powerhouse double-bill features arena-filling bands A Day to Remember and Yellowcard with special guests for a high-octane night. 6:15 PM/Price Varies

👻Haunted Library

Did you know that Grand Rapids Public Library is thought to be haunted by Samuel Ranck, a WWI wartime librarian and, later, director of the Grand Rapids Library. ?

📅 Add to Your Calendar

The Book of Mormon - November 4 – 9 @ DeVos Performance Hall

Cultural Heritage Festival - November 8 @ Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Christkindl Markt 2025 — November 19 – December 21, 2025 @ Downtown Market, Grand Rapids

Enlighten at Frederik Meijer Gardens - November 26, 2025 – January 4, 2026 @ Frederik Meijer Gardens

Jonas Brothers - December 12, 2025 @ Van Andel Arena

🎼 GR Symphony Presents Holiday Pops - December 5–7, 2025 @ DeVos Performance Hall)

🏃 Upcoming Runs & Walks!

Earlier this year, one of our readers wrote in asking about running and walking events happening around Grand Rapids. We aim to please! Here are a few running and walking events happening in the next few weeks and months, so you can start warming up now.

Grand Rapids Turkey Trot: Here’s a chance to do some good while you walk or run, with all proceeds from the Grand Rapids Turkey Trot on November 27 going to support Grand Rapids Public School athletics.

🏷️ GRrrrrrrreat Discounts for Subscribers!

Lush Health
Lush health is offering 50% off vitamin B injections for all GRNEWS subscribers. Just mention GRNEWS when you make your appointment!
Book your appointment & find out more here.

Harmonic Egg - BOGO!
The Harmonic Egg in GR is now open & is offering a special BOGO discount when you and a friend visit for the first time! Experience the healing power of sacred geometry, light, color and sound.
Just text “GRNEWS” to 616-970-9186 to claim and make your appt!

Hydrowash Solutions - 50% OFF
Your home looking a little dirty or green this spring? Get 50% off your home's first pressure wash (up to 1500 sq ft). Only $300 for GR Newsletter subscribers.
Text "Wash" to 616-730-3949 get on the calendar. (First 10 homes only)

Let The Good Times Roll - $150 OFF
Need a bartender for your special day? Whether it's a wedding, backyard bbq, or any other special occassion - I am your certified and insured bartender and food handler. $150 off any event for GR News subscribers!
Text "Bartender" to 847-924-2447 to claim your discount!

JDPotter Lawn Care - First Grass Mowing is FREE!
I’m a bit biased, as Jackson has been cutting my lawn for several years. He’s a great young man with a thriving business. He’ll cut up to two acres for free, for first-time customers. And, you’ll love it so much, he’ll be your lawn guy for life.
Text “Free Mow” to 616-818-8805 to get scheduled. (First 15 lawns only)

Miss Clean It All - 40% OFF
Get your first cleaning job on the books at 40% off! Two hours of deep cleaning for only $40! Servicing residential & commercial customers.
Text "First Cleaning" to 616-433-5497 to get scheduled.

Cookie Cutters - 50% OFF a “Kids Cut” for First Time Customers
Voted #1 for 4 years in a row for the best place for kids' haircuts in Grand Rapids by GRkids.com families! All three of our GR locations feature amazing stylists, an indoor play set, fun fantasy cars, and personal TVs, in our kid-centric salons! Click here to book your appointment and mention the GR Newsletter when you visit.

👨‍💼 Highlighting New Businesses

Acapulco Mexicana is a new Mexican restaurant by Knapps corner and the food is phenomenal! Highly recommend.

Gladys Grille is a new gourmet soul food restaurant inspired by the legacy of owner Jeannica Garmon's grandmother, Gladys Oliver. Now she’s sharing her family’s warmth, love, and mouth-watering Southern-inspired cuisine with the Grand Rapids area!

Pho House GR has been bringing whole new dimension in authentic pho to West Michigan since May. Find out what all the hubbub is about for yourself!

Gimmes Par and Grill is new and open to some well-deserved fan fare. With 4.8 Stars and over 100 Reviews on Google… the food is great, the golf simulators are above par and the drinks are always swingin.

Playa Bowls just opened on East Beltline offering acai bowls, juices and smoothies.

 🎶 Plan Ahead for Big Concerts & Shows!

Quite a few readers have said they’d like a little more advance notice on upcoming concerts and shows - so here ya go! Whilst this isn’t everything - it’s a lot of the big names coming to town!

Matt Rife is coming to Van Andel on Nov 9th

Bert Kreischer is coming to Van Andel on Nov 20th