March 2018 Events
Feb 28, 2018 10:00AM ● By WLMagazineSundays
Gazelle Sports Dirty Herd. Join a herd of runners as they navigate through dynamic terrain and the orchard’s woods. Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery. 4 pm. gazellesports.com/thedirtyherd
Mondays
Studio Night at Grand Rapids Brewing Company. Artists, writers, musicians and creators are invited to the brewery’s back room to work on their own projects among accessible collaboration from fellow creatives. 25% discount for all who participate. Grand Rapids Brewing Company. 6-11 pm. grbrewingcompany.com
Comedy Outlet Mondays. Laugh Monday off as you watch a variety of improv, sketch, puppet and musical performances. Dog Story Theater. 7 pm. dogstorytheater.com
Tuesdays
Meijer Free Tuesdays means free admission and explorations to the Grand Rapids Art Museum. 10 am-5 pm. artmuseumgr.org
Science Tuesdays at the Museum. Your little culinary scientist can explore the science of food by partaking in a variety of activities and interactive displays. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 10 am-4 pm. grpm.org
Meanwhile Movie. Kick back for a viewing of a cult classic, with titles varying every week in the Wealthy movie theater. Bar privileges open to members. Wealthy Theatre. 8 pm. grcmc.org
Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Adult Intermediate Ballet Classes. Recommended to those with 2-3 years of experience, this class is led by trained company dancers and teaches you how to get your ballet technique on pointe. Grand Rapids Ballet. 6:30-7:45 pm. grballet.com
Thursdays
Meijer Free Thursday Nights means free admission and an evening of art pieces. The Grand Rapids Art Museum. 5-9 pm. artmuseumgr.org
Adult Beginner Ballet Classes. Enjoy a new kind of workout learning ballet technique while strengthening your core and conditioning your muscles in the most elegant ways you could imagine. Grand Rapids Ballet. 6:30-7:45 pm. grballet.org
Saturdays
Drop-In Studio: Pulp Paintings. Drop in with friends or family to dabble with pulling a sheet of handmade paper and making it your own by adding lines and shape with colored pulp. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 1-4 pm. artmuseumgr.org
Ongoing
Membership Exchange: Grand Rapids Art Museum and Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. UICA and GRAM members enjoy reciprocal benefits at both museums during march including museum store discounts, free gallery admission and more!
Water’s Extreme Journey exhibit. The museum’s newest exhibit invites visitors to travel through lakes, rivers, wetlands and watersheds as a water droplet making its way to the ocean and encountering things that affect their journey along the way. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 10 am. Exhibit runs until April 29. Hours at grpm.org.
Butterflies are Blooming. The Gardens’ Tropical Conservatory saturates with over 7,000 tropical butterflies during this annual exhibition enjoyed by all ages. Partake in special programming and activities that let you explore the life of these majestic insects as they evolve from cocoon to beautiful butterfly. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Exhibit runs until April 30. meijergardens.org
LaFontsee 30th Anniversary exhibit. The local gallery thanks community members for their creativity and loyalty during this special exhibit displaying works by local artists and other celebratory surprises. LaFontsee Galleries. Hours at lafontsee.us.
Drawn Into Form: Beverly Pepper exhibit. The Gardens display drawings and prints by the iconic sculptor in this never before seen exhibit. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Hours at meijergardens.org.
Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids exhibit. Follow mythological creatures to their roots through models and replicas, fossils, interactive exhibits and more. Grand Rapids Public Museum. Exhibit runs until May 20. Hours at grpm.org
The Great Lakes Cycle exhibit. Viewers explore the Great Lakes through Alexis Rockman’s vast collection of artwork that illustrates what the Great Lakes were in the past and what the future holds for them based on our actions. Grand Rapids Art Museum. Hours at artmuseumgr.org.
Through March 15
Beer Month GR/Cool Brews. Hot Eats. Don’t miss out of celebrating the beverage that’s earned GR its namesake as dozens of local restaurants dish out exclusive menu items made and paired with beer, Founders celebrates their annual KBS Week, taps takeover local brewpubs and Brewsaders are treated to extra special deals. List of participating restaurants, events and specials at beermonthgr.com.
Through March 18
My Fair Lady. This popular musical brings thick-accented Eliza Doolittle and arrogant phonetics professor Henry Higgins together through a bet and sets them off on a life-changing path of discovery. Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. Tickets and showtimes at grct.org.
Through March 19
Enmeshed exhibit. Discover how participating artists bridge the gap between personal, political and spiritual, exploring how they relate to identity and action. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. Hours at uica.org.
March 1
Volunteer Education session. Those interested in becoming a volunteer tutor are invited to a free information session that teaches attendees more about the center’s programs. Literacy Center of West Michigan. 2-3 pm. literacycenterwm.org
And the Oscar Goes To...Join the library for a preview of this year’s Academy Award nominees and see if you can predict who’s going home with an Oscar. Grand Rapids Public Library. 6 pm. grpl.org
Opening Reception for CAMPUS exhibit. Enjoy light refreshments while mingling with the artists who are faculty and staff members of Ferris University and KCAD, displaying a wide range of visuals spanning all genres and media. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. 6-9 pm. Exhibit runs until May 2. uica.org
Concerts Under the Stars: Jes Kramer. Cosmic-inspired visuals pair with keyboards, guitar, loop pedal and vocals all performed by Kramer to deliver a unique planetarium show combining audio and video. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 7:30 pm. Tickets and line-up at grpm.org.
Victors of Character. Discover the true story of a football player who took a stand against injustice by threatening to quit the team if his teammate was benched because of his skin color during this theatrical performance. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. 8 pm. fordlibrarymuseum.gov
March 1 & 2
Broad: Nardos Osterhart. Kick off the month with a chuckle at Osterhart’s one-woman show where she comically discusses staying in one piece as she manages her personal and professional life during a trip to Europe. Wealthy Theatre. 8-9 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org.
March 1-4
West Michigan Home & Garden Show. Welcome spring at West Michigan’s premier home expo featuring home products and services, huge gardens, landscaping inspiration and more. DeVos Place. Showtimes at showspan.org.
March 1 & 15
Intro to GROW. Get information on programs and services GROW offers for business starters. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. Noon-1 pm and 6-7 pm. growbusiness.org
March 2
GROW Entrepreneur You conference. This day-long conference connects those passionate about owning their own business with knowledge and resources that help them prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead, make strong contacts and make powerful steps toward their business goals. Davenport University (Lettinga Campus). 8:30 am-3:30 pm. Register at growbusiness.org.
First Fridays Gallery Hop. Avenue for the Arts welcomes you to a night of gallery going as artwork and handmade goods by local artists take over gallery and building spaces along the corridor. Exclusive food and drink specials, offered by local businesses, make for an exciting evening of culture and libations. South Division. 6-9 pm. avenueforthearts.com
Purple Community Game with Grand Rapids Griffins. Join VAI and support life-changing and -saving cancer research by enjoying the non-stop action of your GR Griffins, intermission activities hosted by WOTV4 Women’s Maranda, $2 beers and hot dogs, a 50/50 raffle and more with all proceeds benefiting VAI. Van Andel Arena. 7-9 pm. Tickets at purplecommunity.vai.org.
March 2 & 3
Prokofiev Violin Concert. Written during the start of WWII, the serene and elegant sounds of this concerto gave listeners an escape from the devastation to the cool brilliance of Spanish orchestra. DeVos Performance Hall. 8 pm (Fri & Sat). Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
March 2-4
Girlfriends Weekend. Enjoy the ultimate girls’ day/night out during this fun-packed weekend with creative activities at participating businesses, shopping, a bar crawl, fashion show and luau party, all topped off with a delicious Sunday brunch to celebrate the ladies in your life. Downtown Holland. Details and registration at girlfriendsweekend.org.
March 3
5/3 River Bank Community Training Run. Get conditioned for West Michigan’s largest road race in two months by joining runners for a jog along the 25K course, measured at various distances to accommodate all training levels. Water stations and refreshments on the course. Meet at David D. Hunting YMCA. 8 am. More training opportunities at 53riverbankrun.com.
The Bengtson Center at Orangetheory Fitness. Join the Bengtson team at Orangetheory to talk about treatments toward any areas of concern while checking out the fitness facilities. Orangetheory Fitness. 8-11 am. RSVP at bengtsoncenter.com
Indie Flea. Rummage through the best local vendors have to offer among handmade goods, art, vintage items, cards and other treasures at this monthly flea market. Wealthy Theatre. 10 am-4 pm. uptowngr.com
GR Symphony presents Green Eggs and Ham. The Symphony celebrates Dr. Seuss’ birthday by performing the beloved story in a fun children’s operetta style, incorporating familiar melodies from classical and popular music with the story. DeVos Performance Hall. 10:30 am. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com
Exploring Art Together: Made in the Mitten Drop-in Tour. See works from the artists who call the mitten state “home,” from furniture to art inspired by the Great Lakes. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 1-2 pm. artmuseumgr.org
Pioneer Sugaring. Throwback to an early treat enjoyed by pioneers in the 1800s’ as you learn to make your own sugar treat just like your ancestors did. Blandford Nature Center. 2-3:30 pm. blandfordnaturecenter.com
The Toymaker: An Easter Story ballet. DeVos Center for Arts and Worship. 3-4:30 pm. Tickets at dcaw.org.
Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes. This fun and social event supports Friends & Families of Cystic Fibrosis, lining up an array of men, women and silent auction packages to bid on with all proceeds supporting the local nonprofit. JW Marriott. 5:30-9 pm. Date packages and tickets at friendsanddamiliesofcf.org.
March 3-11
88th Annual Saladin Shrine Circus. Feast your eyes on a brand new show featuring illusions, stunts and tricks like you’ve never seen before. DeltaPlex Arena. Tickets and showtimes at deltaplex.com.
March 3 & 17
Outdoor Winter Market. Warm up with fresh breads, root vegetables, eggs and more from local market vendors. 8th Street Holland Marketplace. 9 am-noon. downtownholland.com
March 3 & 24
Grand Raggidy Roller Derby Double Header. Rivertown Sports. 5-9:30 pm. Tickets at grandraggidy.com.
March 4
GR Youth Symphony & Classical Orchestra Spring Concert. DeVos Performance Hall. 3 pm. devosperformancehall.com
TobyMac: Hits Deep concert. Van Andel Arena. 7 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
March 5
GROW Facebook Micro Credential Workshop: Week 5. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. 2-5 pm. growbusiness.org
Screenagers film screening. This documentary dives into the impacts screen time has on kids and reveals solutions that reach toward finding a balance between reality and the digital world. Wealthy Theatre. 7-9 pm. grcmc.org
Million Dollar Quartet. Sit in on the legendary recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for one epic night, featuring hit iconic rock ‘n’ roll songs. Van Singel Fine Arts Center. 7:30 pm. Tickets at vsfac.com.
March 5-10
Founders KBS Week. Visitors and locals alike flock to the brewery for the limited release of Kentucky Breakfast Stout, which has spent the last year aging in oak bourbon barrels and is being released in the taproom along with participating bars in Grand Rapids. Founders Brewing Company. Details at kbsweek.com.
March 6
Volunteer Education session. Learn more about the center’s programs at this free information session. Literacy Center of West Michigan. 6-7 pm. literacycenterwm.org.
P.O.R.T. Light Up the Night. Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while browsing the tables packed with items for the evening’s energetic and live auction before sitting down to a delicious dinner and dessert while supporting and learning more about the life-changing programs P.O.R.T. offers. New Vintage Place. 6-10 pm. For tickets, contact [email protected]. spectrumhealth.org
GROW Small Business Class: Financial Awareness Strategies. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. 6-9 pm. growbusiness.org
Hockey, Hops & Hope. The Grand Rapids Griffins get behind the serving tables to pour samples from a variety of breweries and wineries while you enjoy bites from a strolling dinner and browsing enticing auction packages with all proceeds benefiting Easterseals Michigan. SHAPE Collection Jaguar Land Rover Showroom. 6:30-9 pm. Tickets at easterseals.com.
March 6-11
The Bodyguard: The Musical. The story of former Secret Service Agent, Frank Farmer, and his superstar client, Rachel Marron, puts audiences at the edge of their seat with this musical, romantic thriller. DeVos Performance Hall. Tickets and showtimes at broadwaygrandrapids.com.
March 7
50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan Luncheon. Salute 50 of the region’s most influential business owners at this inspiring and empowering luncheon featuring keynote speaker, Lis Wiehl. JW Marriott. 11 am-1:30 pm. Tickets at grbj50women18.eventbrite.com.
Artist’s Reception for Bill Hosterman. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. 6 pm. fhfineartscenter.com
Grand Rapids Police Policy and Procedure Review Task Force and Public discussion. Learn what GR is doing to ensure our police force has policies and procedures in place to achieve effective law enforcement while protecting its citizens. Grand Rapids Public Library. 7-8:30 pm. grpl.org
March 8
Good for Grand Rapids Awards. Raise a glass to yourself and our local companies for demonstrating a commitment to positive environmental and social change while celebrating those who have made exceptional strides in creating a better, more sustainable community. Lions & Rabbits. 6-8 pm. Tickets at localfirst.com.
International Photo Exhibit. Local photographers display their moving photography during this celebratory exhibit for International Women’s Day. SowHope Office. 6-8 pm. sowhope.org
March 8-18
LaughFest Grand Rapids. Laugh for the health of it during GR’s most hilarious festival featuring a variety of comedic showcases from stand-up to improv to music, monologues, activities and more. Proceeds benefit Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, giving us even more to smile about as we laugh along with the community during this massive event that leaves funny bones everywhere tickled. Schedule of events, locations, showtimes and more at laughfestgr.org.
March 9
Superhero Pajama Party. Join GRCM in your coziest clothes and create a mask and cape, decorate super snacks, enjoy superhero storytime and more. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. 6-8 pm. Tickets at grcm.org.
LaughFest presents Ron Funches. Fall in love with this comedian’s unique delivery and loveable demeanor as he visits GR. Vander Mill Cider Grand Rapids. 7 and 9:30 pm. Tickets at laughfestgr.org.
Pop Scholars: Improv Comedy. Laugh with a night of smart, risk-taking improv comedy performed by Grand Rapids’ 4-man improvisational experts. Wealthy Theatre. 8 pm. grcmc.org
March 9-11
West Michigan Women’s Expo. Take a weekend for yourself or gather your girlfriends and head to the annual expo that is celebrating its 20th year with the latest and greatest advances in women’s products and services including health and wellness, beauty, fashion, food, fitness, travel, home décor and more. DeVos Place. 10 am-6 pm (Fri & Sat) and 11 am-4 pm (Sun). $2 off admission coupon at kohlerexpo.com.
Monster Jam: Triple Threat. Monster Jam trucks, speedsters and ATV’s come crashing to Grand Rapids to bring West Michigan’s monster truck fans the adrenaline-charged family entertainment that gets bigger each year with new games, challenges and heart-stopping freestyle tricks. Van Andel Arena. 7 pm (Fri), 1 and 7 pm (Sat) and 1 pm (Sun). Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
March 10
Mary Jane Dockeray’s Birthday Party. Celebrate Blandford’s 50th anniversary with the team, a pancake brunch and founder, Mary Jane Dockeray who is also celebrating her 91st birthday. Blandford Nature Center. 9:30-11:30 am. RSVP at blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Atrium at Mazzo Open House. See the newly renovated event space at Mazzo and let your mind run wild with inspiration as you sample menu items and explore the three event spaces Mazzo has to offer. Atrium of the Ledyard Building. 11 am-2 pm. theatriumgr.com
KBS Release Party. First come, first serve for ages 21 and over who want to top the week off with a proper celebration of the famous breakfast stout. Founders Brewing Company. 11 am (until KBS is tapped out). kbsweek.com
The Ride Indoor Cycling Fundraiser. Hop on as an individual or as part of a team of eight for an indoor stationary bike race designed to support cardiovascular health. The Lakes Mall. Noon-4:30 pm. Register at mercyhealth.com.
Draw and Discovery: Take a Seat! Sketchbook in hand, browse through the museum’s dynamic collection of historic and modern furniture pieces, sketching whenever inspiration strikes. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 1-2 pm. artmuseumgr.org
Spring Wild Herbs for Wellness. Herbalist, forager and author Lisa Rose teaches attendees which plants are edible and can be used as an elixir while sharing tips on how to locate edible plants without experiencing an Into the Wild-type situation. Grand Rapids Public Library. 1-2:30 pm. grpl.org
Sugarbush Tour. Exercise your senses at the Sugarhouse, practice tapping a tree and discover how pioneers and Native Americans made maple syrup during this sweet tour. Blandford Nature Center. 2-3:30 pm. blandfordnaturecenter.com
LaughFest Signature Event presents Trevor Noah. The highlight of LaughFest features the hilarious and smart-witted host of The Daily Show, who delivers an unforgettable show following a delicious sit-down dinner. DeVos Place. 5:30 pm (dinner). 8 pm (show). Tickets and additional events at laughfestgr.org.
Cooking with Winter Beer class. Learn to make a beer-illiant meal by mastering a beer-inspired appetizer, beer braised pork tacos and cilantro beer rice. The Downtown Market. 6-8:30 pm. Register at downtownmarketgr.com.
LowellArts House Concerts presents Peat in the Creel. Enjoy a live concert in the LowellArts gallery, featuring musicians from Lowell and the Greater Grand Rapids area. LowellArts. 7 pm. Tickets at lowellartsmi.org.
LaughFest presents Maria Bamford. Wealthy Theatre. 7:30 and 9:30 pm. laughfestgr.org
Laughfest presents Weird Al. The parodically popular comedian has audience members in stitches during his performance marked with his clever, well-adored sense of humor. 20 Monroe Live. 8 pm. Tickets at laughfest.org.
March 11
Better Body Image Conference. Redefine how you view your body at this conference that shows attendees how to achieve body peace and foster self-compassion through workshops, an address by director Elena Rossini and a free film screening of The Illusionists. Wealthy Theatre. Noon-6 pm. Schedule at betterbodyimageconference.com.
LaughFest: Funderwear 5K. Boast your bloomers and other undergarments for the silliest 5K in the city where hundreds of runners take to the streets wearing their underwear over their running clothes to support Gilda’s, health and laughter. The Knickerbocker. 2-4 pm. Register at laughfestgr.org.
LowellArts House Concerts presents Bill Vits. Families are invited to enjoy a free concert and percussion discussion as Vits introduces instruments from around the world. 2-4 pm. House concert lineup at lowellartsmi.org.
March 12
Lunch & Learn Mental Health Session: Inviting Yourself and Others to Have a Conversation. These free sessions focus on understanding and raising awareness for mental health issues.. Ronald McDonald House. 11:45 am-1 pm. Lineup at rmhwesternmichigan.org.
Paws, Claws & Corks. Support the animals of the Humane Society while sipping on wines and microbrews sided with tastes of GR’s best eats while bidding on unique silent auction packages that appeal to dog-, cat-, beer- and adventure-lovers. DeVos Place. 6-10 pm. Tickets at pawsclawsandcorks.com.
March 13
Grand Rapids Drive vs. Ft. Wayne Mad Ants. DeltaPlex. 11 am. Tickets at deltaplex.com.
LaughFest presents LAUGHsket Ball. Comedians take on local celebrities for a non-stop hilarious game of basketball that also features a chicken toss and silent auction you can participate in. DeltaPlex Arena. 5:30-8 pm. More hilarious events at laughfestgr.org.
A Maker’s Perspective: Artist-led Gallery Walk with Mariel Versluis of KCAD. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 6-7 pm. meijergardens.org
Perrin “No Problems” Training Run. Train for River Bank like a beer city local at this community training run featuring a 3-mile course followed by a pint and conversation at Perrin. Perrin Brewing Company. 6 pm. More training opportunities at 53riverbankrun.com.
GROW Small Business Class: Financial Awareness: Reporting and Analysis. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. 6-9 pm. growbusiness.org
Spanish Beauties. Dive into Spain’s dynamic and delicious cheeses, experiencing popular and even obscure cheeses with their traditional pairings. The Cheese Lady. 6:30-7:30 pm. thecheeselady.net
Ford After Five presents Raven Rock.Join journalist Garrett Graff for an exploration through the story of the government’s plans to survive and rebuild after a hypothetical attack on U.S. soil. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. 5 pm. fordlibrarymuseum.gov
March 14
Social Media Privacy: Taking Control of Your Profiles. Learn how to set your personal settings on your social media pages to prevent personal information from being shared with strangers. Grand Rapids Public Library. 11 am. grpl.org
West Michigan Wellness Symposium. Join the American Heart Association to learn how to execute a wellness program within your workplace and lifestyle. Kent District Library Service and Meeting Center. 9 am-5 pm. Tickets at event’s Facebook page. heart.org
Volunteer Education session. Learn more about the center’s programs at this free information session. Literacy Center of West Michigan. 6-7 pm. literacycenterwm.org
GROW Start Smart Business Readiness Course. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. 6-9 pm. growbusiness.org
LaughFest presents John Mulaney stand-up. Mulaney leaves new listeners and longtime fans in stitches with his signature humor as he appears live in GR for the first time ever. DeVos Performance Hall. 7 pm. laughfestgr.org.
March 15
Toodaloo Tree Beer Tap Takeover. Seize your final chance to try the Tree Beers that brewers made for Beer Month GR to benefit Friends of GR Parks. Logan’s Alley. 7 am-11 pm. logansalley.com
WRC Pillar Awards. Network, enjoy a provided lunch and Celebrate 45 years of service and the evolution of Women’s Resource Center and its benevolent mission to empower women in the workplace. JW Marriott. 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Tickets at grwc.org.
GGRWHC Annual Reception. Following author Rebecca Traister’s visit, the conversation about her book, All the Single Ladies, continues as you join the council in discussing the relationship between singledom and progress for women. Aquinas College (Donnelly Center). 5-7 pm. ggrwhc.org
Green Drinks with WMEAC. Network with a lively mix of people from NGO’s to sustainability experts over craft beer. SpeakEZ. 5-7 pm. wmeac.org
Yoga at GRAM. Unwind during a yoga class taking place in the unique setting of GRAM’s galleries. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 5:45-6:45 pm. artmuseumgr.org
LaughFest presents Kid’s Joke Time. Kids take the stage and reveal their funniest jokes, creating an entertaining event for the whole family. Grand Rapids Public Library. 6 pm. grpl.org
Beer Explorers: Hops! The brewers from Elk Brewing take you through the lifetime of hops, starting in the propagator to their bravado with the brewers, while explaining how each aspect of the process affects the taste. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 6:30-8 pm. Tickets at grpl.org.
Grand Rapids Drive vs. Erie Bayhawks. DeltaPlex. 7 pm. Tickets at deltaplex.com.
The Eagles concert. Van Andel Arena. 8 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
March 15-17
FHC presents Peter Pan. Witness the tale that takes even the oldest audience members to a place where you never grow up. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. 7:30 pm (Thu & Fri). 3 and 7:30 pm (Sun). fhfineartscenter.com
March 15-18
Ultimate Sports Show. Outdoor-lovers find the latest outdoor gear, travel information, fishing boats, seminars, outdoor experts and more at this annual expo. DeVos Place. Showtimes at showspan.com.
March 16
Opening of Look Behind Design exhibit. In correlation with Design Week, this exhibit puts the spotlight on local design and reveals how it happens within a group of companies. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. Exhibit runs until May 13. Gallery hours at uica.org.
Warm Up the Irish Way cooking class. Everybody is Irish in this class as students enjoy homemade beer cheese while learning to make classic brown butter soda rolls, Irish sausage and other traditional fare. The Downtown Market. 6-8:30 pm. Register at downtownmarketgr.com.
Piano Man Pictures Road Show. This short-film festival introduces viewers to four films that impact all the senses with drama, thriller and comedy. Wealthy Theatre. 8:15-10:30 pm. grcmc.org
March 16-18
Second City: A Guide to the Symphony comedy show. Second City comedy troupe surges improve, satire, songs and skits into the GR Symphony’s performance of classical music that blends with the hilarity onstage. DeVos Performance Hall. 8 pm (Fri & Sat) and 3 pm (Sun). Tickets at grsymphony.org.
March 17
Irish on Ionia. Unleash your Irish energy and pride during Michigan’s largest St. Patty’s Day street party featuring live entertainment, loads of food and, of course, beer! Ionia Street Downtown Grand Rapids. 7 am-11 pm. Event schedule at irishonionia.com.
Irish Jig 5K. Start St. Patty’s Day off with one of Michigan’s premier races following a lovely course in the East Grand Rapids area. East Grand Rapids High School. 9 am. Register at spectrumhealth.org/irish-jig.
Parent & Child Workshop: Watercolor Collages. Harness inspiration from the current Great Lakes Cycle exhibit and experiment with different watercolor techniques in the studio. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 10 am-noon. artmuseumgr.org
Maple Moon. Learn the about the discovery of maple through a Native American tale of a young boy who helped his people survive the winter with the sweet treat. Blandford Nature Center. 2-3:30 pm. blandfordnaturecenter.org
LaughFest presents Rik Roberts. The clean comedy comedian has made people laugh around the globe and visits GR to fill the afternoon with side-splitting quality laughs that only adults will understand. Fountain Street Church. 2 pm. Tickets at laughfestgr.org.
GR Symphony presents Peter and the Wolf. The Symphony accompanies the classic musical tale on the big screen for this special production. DeVos Performance Hall. 3 pm (arrive at 2 pm for pre-concert kids’ activities). Tickets at devosperformanehall.com.
Grand Rapids Drive vs. Westchester Knicks. DeltaPlex. 7 pm. Tickets at deltaplex.com.
March 17 & 18
Who Am I? A Butterfly Ballet. Colorful costumes, spectacular music and stunning choreography performed by the GR Ballet Junior Company take audience members on a newly emerged butterfly’s journey as it tries to figure out what it is. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 10 am, 12:30 & 3 pm (Sat) and 1 pm (Sun). meijergardens.org
March 17-24
West Michigan Design Week. Celebrate design in all its forms during this annual week full of programs and events aimed to inspire and demonstrate the advantages of design thinking within the community. Find events at wmdesignweek.com.
March 18
LaughFest: Seriously Funny Family Adventure Challenge. Create a team of two or four and go head-to-head with others as you frolic around Downtown GR, competing in silly Amazing Race-like challenges along the way. The B.O.B. (H.O.M.E.). Noon-4 pm. Register at laughfestgr.org
Five Great Women Sculptors. Join the Gardens for a fascinating discussion on how five women sculptors, including the currently exhibiting Beverly Pepper, made a massive impression on art’s history. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 2-3 pm. meijergardens.org
Summer Camp Fair. Get a jump start on your kids’ summer plans by joining the Grand Rapids Kids team for camp-inspired activities and loads of resources that let you peruse the plethora of summer camp options West Michigan has to offer. Salvation Army Kroc Center. 2-5 pm. Free tickets at grkids.com/campfair.
LowellArts House Concerts presents Lipstick Jodi. LowellArts. 7 pm. Tickets at lowellartsmi.org.
P!NK: Beautiful Trauma concert. Van Andel Arena. 7:30 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
March 19
Author Visit: Rita Williams-Garcia. The author visits the library to talk about her book, One Crazy Summer, which was chosen as this year’s One Book, One City for Kids. Grand Rapids Public Library. 5 pm. grpl.org
Monday Night Jazz Gumbo presents the Fred Knapp Trio. The crew is cooking up their famous gumbo to accompany a jazzy performance by the Fred Knapp Trio at the local brewery. The Knickerbocker. 6:30-8:30 pm. wmichjazz.org
Styx & REO Speedwagon concert. Van Andel Arena. 7 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
March 20
GROW Small Business Class: Financial Awareness: Navigating Business Banking. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. 6-9 pm. growbusiness.org
Mastering the Art of Meal Planning & Food Prep. Health coach Andrea Hop shares her knowledge on how to tackle the week ahead with prepared delicious and nutritious food. Mercy Health St. Mary’s. 6:30-8 pm. RSVP at grnaturalhealth.com.
March 21
Free Student Heart Screenings. Students entering 9th- to 12th-graders are invited to a free heart screening session including a blood pressure check, 12-lead EKG, physician exam and an echocardiogram if needed. Mercy Health (Hackley Campus). Schedule at mercyhealth.com/studentheart.
Blood Drive at Cornerstone University. Noon-5:45 pm. Sign up at redcross.org
Travel Information Session. Learn more about Witte Travel’s guided vacations featuring America’s National Parks while enjoying refreshments, participating in door prizes, and getting inside tips and discounts from Globus experts and more. Witte Travel & Tours. 2-3 pm. RSVP at wittetravel.com/parks.
Bruce Hornsby. Journey on the path leading away from Hornsby’s original mainstream success and experience his new projects that surge with an edge of personal, idiosyncratic music that inspired his creative interest in the beginning. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. 7:30 pm. fhfineartscenter.com
March 22
GROW Connects: Grow Your Business Online Presence with a Blog. Learn how to create and implement a blog strategy to positively impact your business. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. 6-9 pm. Register at growbusiness.org.
Great Lakes Cycle Speaker Series presents the Mysterious Disappearance of NWA Flight 2501 with Valerie van Heest. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 7 pm. artmuseumgr.org
The World Through the Lens of Merze Tate. Author Sonya Bernard-Hollins leads visitors through the trailblazing woman’s life with images from her own camera lens collected in a photo-biography. Grand Rapids Public Library. 7-8:30 pm. grpl.org
SCMC Spectacular Jazz Series presents Kurt Elling. The jazz series season wraps up with a performance by Elling and his signature navigation through daring and dynamic jazz. St. Cecilia Music Center. 7:30 pm. Tickets at scmc-online.org.
Concerts Under the Stars: Dan Rickabus. The local musician performs alternative folk music that cosmo-inspired visuals dance to above audience members in the planetarium. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 7:30 pm. Tickets and line-up at grpm.org. The Breakers Tour feat. Little Big Town. Van Andel Arena. 7:30 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
March 23
Volunteer Education session. Learn more about the center’s programs at this free information session. Literacy Center of West Michigan. 10-11 am. literacycenterwm.org
Grand Rapids Drive vs. Greensboro Swarm. DeltaPlex. 7 pm. Tickets at deltaplex.com
March 23 & 24
GR Symphony presents A Hero’s Life. DeVos Performance Hall. 8 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
March 23-25
MOVEMEDIA II: Diversity. GR Ballet presents part two of this stunning show that explores and celebrates the variety of views, realities and expectations we hold, fused with thought-provoking panel discussion at the show. Peter Martin Wege Theatre. Tickets and showtimes at grballet.com.
Cottage & Lakefront Living Show. Those who adore the cottage lakefront living lifestyle connect with designers, lakefront builders, realtors and vacation home services while discovering furnishings and art for their personal paradise at this annual springtime expo. DeVos Place. Showtimes at showspan.com.
March 24
Sugarbush Festival. Celebrate the sweet arrival of spring with Blandford Nature Center and learn everything about maple sugaring, become an expert on identifying maple trees, get some hands-on tapping experience and wrap it up with a mouthwatering taste test in the sugarhouse. Blandford Nature Center. 10 am-4 pm. blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Arts in Motion presents Dance On! This groovy fundraiser invites you to gather pledges and dance the day away while earning prizes, having fun and supporting Arts in Motion Dance. 10 am-4 pm. Register to dance at artsinmotionstudio.org.
Exploring Art Together Drop-in Tour: The Great Lakes Cycle. Hop into this tour with GRAM’s docent guides as they lead you through Alexis Rockman’s beautiful exhibit. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 1-2 pm. artmuseumgr.org.
Chilly, Blues & Brews. Taste entries from the best chili aficionados in GR during this tasting contest/fundraiser where a portion of the proceeds go toward skin cancer research. The B.O.B. 1-11 pm. thebob.com
Stabat Mater and Four Sacred Songs feat. Opera GR, Holland Chorale and the Park Singers. Christ Memorial Church. 3 pm. operagr.org
Grand River Folk Arts Society presents Bill Staines. Wealthy Theatre. 7 pm. grcmc.org
Grand Rapids Drive vs. Long Island Nets. DeltaPlex. 7 pm. Tickets at deltaplex.com.
Sounds of Summer: A Beach Boys Tribute. This tribute band brings audience members as close as they can come to a real Beach Boys concert experience by mastering their authentic sound and including over 30 of the band’s best hits. Van Singel Fine Arts Center. 7:30 pm. Tickets at vsfac.com.
March 25
Stabat Mater and Four Sacred Songs feat. Opera GR, Holland Chorale and the Park Singers. First Park Congregational Church. 7:30 pm. operagr.org
March 26
Blood Drive. Davenport University. 10 am-3:45 pm. Sign up at redcross.org.
Brit-Floyd Eclipse World Tour concert. Get as close to experiencing a real-life Pink Floyd concert as you can with a spot-on musical, visual performance by the world’s best Pink Floyd tribute band who pairs the band’s legendary sound with a stunning light show. DeVos Performance Hall. 8-11 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
March 27
GRAM Baby and Me Tour: Saving the Lakes. Join art experts for an interactive tour and discussion inspired by The Great Lakes Cycle exhibit. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 11 am-noon. artmuseumgr.org
Cheese 101. Know your cheeses cheddar than anyone else after joining the Cheese Lady for a quick and tasty class that covers the fundamentals of all things cheese. The Cheese Lady. 6:30-7:30 pm. thecheeselady.net
March 28
Hills & Hops Training Run. Become unbeatable during this year’s River Bank Run by hill training with your fellow runners and Greg Meyer, followed by replenishing eats and drinks at a nearby location. John Ball Park (northwest lot). 6-8 pm. More training opportunities at 53riverbankrun.com.
March 29
Music in the Stacks with Yolonda Lavendar. Enjoy the soul-based music weaved with gospel, r&b, hip-hop, blues and jazz influences as you browse the library’s collection. Grand Rapids Public Library. 7 pm. grpl.org
Live Music with Hannah Laine. Enjoy an evening of happy hour prices, drink deals and a live musical performance by the local musician. Wheelhouse Kitchen & Cocktails. 7-10 pm. wheelhousegrandrapids.com
March 30
Jake Kershaw with Erin Coburn concert. This local trio famously leaves audience members asking for more with sweet guitar and blues/rock vocals. Wealthy Theatre. 7 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org.
Haters Roast: The Shady Tour. This eccentric and outrageous show features your favorite drag queens from VH1’s drag race including Trixie Mattel, Trinity Taylor, Thorgy Thor and more. DeVos Performance Hall. 8 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
March 31
Eggtastic Exploration. Kids are invited to venture into the forest to find hidden eggs and learn about the different animals preparing to nest followed by a fun craft. Blandford Nature Center. 2-3:30 pm. blandfordnaturecenter.com
So You Think You’ve Got Talent GR. All talents are welcome to compete in or witness a big time talent show in our own city as GR’s self-proclaimed “top talent” goes head to head for cash prizes. Wealthy Theatre. 6-9 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org.