May 2018 Events
Apr 30, 2018 10:00AM ● By WLMagazine
Sundays
Gazelle Sports Dirty Herd. For those who love trail running and free weekly events, join a herd of runners as they navigate through dynamic terrain and the orchard’s woods. Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery. 6 pm. gazellesports.com/thedirtyherdMondays
Studio Night at Grand Rapids Brewing Company. Work on your art projects among accessible collaboration from fellow creators. 25% discount for all who participate. Grand Rapids Brewing Company. 6-11 pm. grbrewingcompany.comOpen Bike Night. The neighborhood brewing company and bike shop team up and invite cyclists to join one of their bicycle groups for an evening ride followed by fun and food at the brewery. Cyclists can join the training group for a challenging ride or the leisure group for a less intense adventure. Cedar Springs Brewing Company. 6:30-9:30 pm. Updates on event’s Facebook page. csbrew.com.
Tuesdays
Meijer Free Tuesdays means free admission and explorations to the Grand Rapids Art Museum. 10 am-5 pm. artmuseumgr.orgScience Tuesdays at the Museum. Kids explore the Science of Physics 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.comThursdays
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts. Pair music with your lunch hour by heading to the heart of Downtown GR and enjoying a live performance by a local band, and grab an afternoon bite at one of the several food trucks onsite during the concerts. Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full lineup at downtowngr.orgMeijer Free Thursday Nights means free admission and an evening of art pieces. The Grand Rapids Art Museum. 5-9 pm. artmuseumgr.or
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 Family Saturdays welcome families to join the fun and participate in exciting art activities in the museum’s Education Studio. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 11 am-5 pm. artmuseumgr.orgOngoing
Artist Gerri Treves One Step Closer exhibit. Marvel at a collection of Treves’ favorite pieces that express her style and emotion through colors, powerful brushstrokes and experiments with line and texture. Flat River Gallery & Framing. Gallery hours at flatrivergalleryandframing.com.Through May 6
CAMPUS exhibit. Faculty and staff of Ferris State University and KCAD display works covering a variety of disciplines and spanning all genres and media. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. Exhibit runs until May 2. Hours at uica.org.Through May 13
Look Behind Design exhibit. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. Gallery hours at uica.org.Through May 20
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.orgThrough May 26
Mayfield & Mosaics exhibit. Duel exhibitions feature two art groups showcasing mosaic and fiber/textile masterpieces. LowellArts. Gallery hours at lowellartsmi.orgMay 1
Local First Member Mixer. Join the Local First team and members at GR Natural Health and learn more about their holistic understanding of wellness while enjoying complimentary refreshments and beverages. Grand Rapids Natural Health. 4:30-6:30 pm. Register at localfirst.com.Meanwhile Movie: Rushmore. Wealthy Theatre. 8 pm. grcmc.org
May 2
Build a Local Search Presence: Livestream. This Small Business Week Event features a Google Livestream where experts show you how to best reach the customers in your area with Google ad resources. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. Noon-1 pm. Register at growbusiness.org.Collections & Cocktails. Drink and discover at GRPM’s newest fundraiser that serves signature cocktails and shines a spotlight on its transportation collection, giving guest the chance to see old-fashioned automobiles that have been hiding in storage for years. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 5:30-9:30 pm. Tickets at grpm.org.
Ford After Five: Big Band Night feat. Northview High School Band. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. 7 pm. fordlibrarymuseum.gov
May 2-5
National Genealogical Society Family History Conference. GGRWHC joins for the annual conference that showcases new strategies, resources and techniques to sharpen family history skills of everyone, from beginners to expert historians and genealogists. Amway Grand Plaza Hotel and DeVos Place. Schedule at ngsgenealogy.org.Celebration of Hope. Join Safe Haven Ministries for a night of networking, cocktails, a strolling dinner and inspiration as they celebrate successes in aiding victims of domestic abuse, featuring a keynote from a former client. Watermark Country Club. 6-8:30 pm. Tickets at safehavenministries.org/celebrationofhope.
May 3
Stella’s 8-Year Anniversary Party. Everyone is invited to this birthday party and, just for the occasion, Stella’s is offering $5 burgers, incredible drink deals, free games all day and more including trivia at night. Stella’s Lounge. 11 pm-2 am (trivia at 10 pm). stellasgr.comRelax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Uprizin Steel Band (Caribbean music). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full lineup at downtowngr.org
Bengtson Center at JB and Me. The aesthetics experts from Bengtson are on location at JB and Me, where you can shop while saving on their services. JB and Me. 4-6 pm. RSVP at bengtsoncenter.com.
LUNAFEST Muskegon. Reap empowering benefits as you join Girls on the Run and the community for a film festival featuring a lineup of short films by, for and about women. Arrive early to enjoy heavy appetizers and a cash bar. GVSU Innovation Hub. 5:30 pm (happy hour). 6:30 pm (screening begins). Tickets and details at gotrkmc.org.
Adulting 101: Basic Home Maintenance. Show them all you can make it on your own with the library’s new Adulting workshops where you learn easy, yet necessary fundamentals of being an adult. Grand Rapids Public Library. 7 pm. grpl.org
May 3-5
LowellArts Players presents Rumors. Grab a seat in this dinner theater production enveloped in deception, cover-ups and comedy as the play’s characters attempt to solve the mystery of a missing person. Show-only tickets available. Larkin’s Other Place. 6:30-9:30 pm. Tickets at lowellartsmi.org.May 3 & 17
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.orgMay 3-5, 9-13 & 16-19
Into the Woods. Circle takes a classic tale and gives it a twist to surprise audience members, bringing popular storybook characters together for an adventure unlike any other. Circle Theatre. Tickets and showtimes at circletheatre.org.May 4
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.comMichigan Golden Gloves boxing: State Semi-Finals. State Championship occurs April 5. DeltaPlex. 7 pm. Tickets at deltaplex.com.
Stars on Ice. Witness some of the magnificent figure skaters who wow’d the crowds at the 2018 Winter Olympics including breakout skating star Nathan Chen, who holds the record of being the first to land five different quadruple jumps in a single competition. Van Andel Arena. 7:30 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
Pop Scholars: Improv Comedy. Laugh with a night of smart, risk-taking improv comedy performed by GR’s 4-man improvisational experts. Wealthy Theatre. 8 pm. grcmc.org
May 4 & 5
Opera GR presents The Marriage of Figaro. This performance was the first opera that came to West Michigan 50 years ago and audience members old and new are invited to experience this timeless work created at the height of Mozart’s creative genius. DeVos Performance Hall. 7:30 pm. Tickets at operagr.com.May 4-6 & 11-12
The Happy Prince & Other Wilde Tales. See Oscar Wilde at a new angle during these ballet performances of his beloved children’s stories like The Selfish Giant, The Happy Prince and The Nightingale & The Rose. Peter Martin Wege Theatre. Tickets and showtimes at grballet.com.
May 5
5/3 River Bank Community Training Run. Get a final jaunt in before West Michigan’s largest road race, joining runners for a jog along the 25K course. Meet at David D. Hunting YMCA. 8 am. 53riverbankrun.com.Tulip Time 5K & 10K. Choose between running 3.1 and 6.2 miles through beautiful Downtown Holland, blooming with thousands of tulips, to kick off the 89th Tulip Time Festival. Kollen Park. 8 am-noon. Register at tuliptime.com
Well-Orchestrated Kitchens. Six of GR’s finest kitchens open their doors to those who want to tour them during this exploratory event benefiting the GR Symphony’s music education programs. 10 am-4 pm. Tickets available at GR Symphony’s offices. Printable map at kitchentourgr.com.
Cinco de Mayo Street Party. The local taqueria hosts a wild, neighborhood fiesta with live music, food, plus margaritas and beer on draft. Donkey Taqueria. 1-9 pm. Info on event Facebook page. donkeygr.com
Derby Day Euchre Tournament. Spend an afternoon playing euchre while munching on appetizers, tasting bourbon and winning raffle prizes while supporting D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 3-8 pm. Register at dabsj.org.
Celebracion Cinco de Mayo. Take part in celebrating Mexico’s colorful culture with loads of family fun, authentic cuisine and libations, artisan vendors and live music animated by traditional dance performances. 20 Monroe Live. 3 pm. Tickets at 20monroelive.com.
Salute! A Night in Italy gala. GRAM transports guests to Italia where they sip Italian cocktails and wines, “ciao” down on unforgettable Italian cuisine and enjoy live entertainment while supporting the museum. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 6-10 pm. Tickets at artmuseumgr.org.
LowellArts House Concerts presents Lexi Reign/The Ryne Experience. 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.
Michigan Golden Gloves boxing: State Championship. DeltaPlex. 7 pm. Tickets at deltaplex.com.
Plant Parenthood, Comedy Coven and Inaccurate & Inappropriate comedy showcase. Wealthy Theatre. 8-9:30 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org
May 5-13
Tulip Time. The world’s award-winning flower festival returns with classic fun and new entertainment for all, encompassed by thousands of tulips imported from the Netherlands. The festival kicks off with the Tulip Time 5K and the week continues with parades, markets, shows, dance performances, food and more, accruing to the fireworks celebration on Saturday night. Downtown Holland. Full event schedule at tuliptime.com.May 6
River North Jazz brunch performance. The Old Goat. 1-2 pm. wmichjazz.orgWalk to Cure Arthritis. Join the Arthritis Foundation at their popular community, fundraising walk that plays a critical role in finding a cure for arthritis. Millennium Park (Grant Pavilion). 1-4 pm. Register at arthritis.org.
GR Youth Symphony & Classical Orchestra Concert. DeVos Performance Hall. 3-5:30 pm. grys.org
EAU Dance presents Bloom. Dancers of all ages and abilities delight audiences with their spring performance featuring choreography in classical ballet, jazz, rhythm, tap, hip hop and musical theatre. Wealthy Theatre. 4-5 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org.
May 6 & May 20
Happy Cat Yoga. Downward Dog can move over because cats are in the house during this guided yoga class complete with the attention-grabbing cats of the café. Happy Cat Café. 11 am. Register at happycatcompany.com.May 7
Healing Hearts Breakfast. Join the community bright and early for a moving presentation on Ele’s Place’s programs and grief support services, featuring an unforgettable message from Bo Stover and more. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7:30-9 am. RSVP by calling (616) 301-1605. elesplace.orgAdulting 101: Green Cleaning. Learn about making your own cleaning products that make your home sparkle with the satisfaction of adulthood. Grand Rapids Public Library. 7 pm. grpl.org
Yoga in the Tulips. Jessica Bradley of Happy Soul Yoga leads a salubrious, evening yoga class among Holland’s beautiful outdoors during the Tulip Time Festival. Window on the Waterfront. 7-8 pm. tuliptime.com
Celebrating One Another: A Storytelling Event. Community members step up to the mic to tell their stories and audience members are invited to do the same. Wealthy Theatre. 7-8 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org.
Circle Summer Concert Series presents Bringing Sexy Back: Male Musician Pop/Rock Icons. Rock out to hits from the legendary fellas who shook the stage back in the day. Circle Theatre. 7 pm. Tickets at circletheatre.org.
May 8
Lunch & Learn Mental Health Session: Building Resiliency. These free sessions focus on understanding and raising awareness for mental health issues, covering different topics each month. Ronald McDonald House. 11:45 am-1 pm. Lineup at rmhwesternmichigan.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 throughout the brewing company’s neighborhood followed by a pint and conversation at Perrin. Perrin Brewing Company. 6 pm. More training opportunities at 53riverbankrun.com.
Tony Bennett concert. DeVos Performance Hall. 7:30 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
Dazzle! A Tulip Time Talent Showcase. Four area high schools bring their most musically talented students to the stage to ‘wow’ audiences with a variety of solo, choir and orchestral performances. Central Wesleyan Church. 8 pm. Tickets at tuliptime.com.
May 9
Measure What Matters: Affording Retention and Building Healthier Teams. Join Local First for a roundtable discussion with local resource partners who enlighten attendees on traditional and non-traditional forms of employee benefits and how to create/maintain a healthy team. Str!ve. 8:30-10 am. Register at localfirst.com.Tulip Time Parades. Take to the sidelines and get ready for the Tulip Time parades, starting with the White Glove Inspection & Street Scrubbing followed by the Volksparade and topped off with the Dutch Dog Parade. Downtown Holland. 1:30-3 pm. tuliptime.com
GROW Start Smart Business Readiness Course. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. 6-9 pm. growbusiness.org
Great Gardens Party. Spend a beautiful evening at the Gardens enjoying cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a delicious sit-down dinner and the opportunity to support the Gardens’ mission by taking a chance at the silent and live auctions featuring trips, unique items and even materials to sensationalize your own garden. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 6-9 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
Tulip Time presents The Texas Tenors. Central Wesleyan Church. 7 pm. Tickets at tuliptime.com.
Tulip Time presents FiddleFire. The talented group uses fiddles, guitar, string bass, mandolin and percussion to put on a performance you can’t help but tap your feet to. Beechwood Church. 7 pm. Tickets at tuliptime.com.
May 10
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Jesse Ray & The Carolina Catfish (rock). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full lineup at downtowngr.orgA World of Fashion. Witness stunning and diverse apparel from African and Latin American cultures during a special fashion show, featuring an exclusive preview of trends from Adored Boutique and benefiting refugee resettlement. The Downtown Market. 5:30-8:30 pm. Tickets at bethany.org.
Adulting 101: Find Work That Works. GRPL’s business librarian guides you through job searching and presentation so you can find something that impresses everyone at your next high school reunion. Grand Rapids Public Library. 7 pm. grpl.org
Tulip Time presents Liverpool Legends. The four-person group of talented musicians performs songs spanning the entire career of The Beatles, giving audience members of all ages an authentic taste of the world’s most iconic band. Central Wesleyan Church. 7 pm. Tickets at tuliptime.com.
Prine Time: Michigan Made Tribute to John Prine. Wealthy Theatre. 7:30 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org.
Tulip Time presents Joshua Davis. Knickerbocker Theatre. 8 pm. Tickets at tuliptime.com.
May 11
ACT Festival Day. All kids are invited to express their world in different art media through a series of hands-on workshops. Volunteer opportunities also available. Lincoln Campus. 10 am-2 pm. artistscreatingtogether.orgFifth Third River Bank Run Sports & Fitness Expo. Over 100 vendors dishing out food samples, gear deals, running fashion and complimentary massages gather under one roof to make sure you get everything you need for the big race tomorrow, including your race packet and bib number. DeVos Place. 11 am-8 pm. 53riverbankrun.com
Make it for Mommy. Create a floral arrangement for Mother’s Day or make one together during this hands-on activity where attendees leave with a one-of-a-kind flower masterpiece. Posh Petals. 3:30-6 pm. No reservations necessary. poshpetalsfloral.com
West Michigan Gay Men’s Chorus: Spring Concert. Wealthy Theatre. 7-8 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org.
Tulip Time presents The Beach Boys. The legendary band brings the sounds of summer to the Tulip Time Festival, delivering a concert that delights multiple generations of listeners. Central Wesleyan Church. 7 pm. Tickets at tuliptime.com.
Brantley Gilbert: The Ones That Like Me feat. Aaron Lewis and Josh Phillips. Gilbert says “thank you” to his supporters with a show molded by the fans themselves, from set lists to merchandise. Van Andel Arena. 7 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
80s vs 90s w/ FeelGood. Indulge in everything you love about 80s and 90s jams with tribute band FeelGood as they spark the can’t-miss dance party of the weekend. The B.O.B. 9 pm-2 am. thebob.com
May 11-13
GR Symphony presents Star Wars and More: The Music of John Williams. Hear the unmistakable music of Star Wars along with a bravado of John Williams’ other epic pieces from movies like Indiana Jones, E.T., Harry Potter and Jaws. DeVos Performance Hall. 8 pm (Fri & Sat) and 3 pm (Sun). Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
May 12
Fifth Third River Bank Run. Bridge that gap between a 10K and a full marathon at the largest annual road race in West Michigan. Thousands of runners form the stampede to conquer personal goals in human endurance by running the 5K, 10K or 25K, featuring the unique wheelchair and handcycle division, followed by a massive Finish Fest to celebrate your victory. David D. Hunting YMCA. 7 am. Register at 53riverbankrun.com.Just for Moms. Enjoy a special day with your child in the Children’s Garden while partaking in fun Mother’s Day crafts, venturing on a scavenger hunt and listening to stories. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 10 am-noon. meijergardens.org
Sketching Drop-In Tour: Understanding the Abstract in Art. Grand Rapids Art Museum. Noon-1 pm. artmuseumgr.org
LOCAL EPIC: Poetry Workshop. Poet and teacher Mike Sikkema guides students as they write their own poetry, deriving inspiration from the library’s collection. Grand Rapids Public Library. 1 pm. grpl.org
Primal Women: Spring Retreat 2018. Learn about self-love through diet and body image with a panel of women experts. Workspace by MVP. 9 am-12:30 pm. Register on Eventbrite.
Mother’s Day Mini-Hop. Spend the day with mom perusing the Wealthy Street shopping district between Union and fuller, enjoying treats and swag along the way.
Kombucha Workshop. Join expert kombucha brewer, Geoff Lamden, and learn about proper handling, health benefits and how to make your own. Blandford Nature Center. 2-3:30 pm. Register at blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Tulip Time Muziekparade and performance. Tulip Time concludes its brigade of parades with this spectacular one featuring floats, Dutch dancers, marching bands and more. Enjoy a performance by the Petoskey Steel Drum Band near Kollen Park after. Downtown Holland. 2-4:30 pm. tuliptime.com
Tulip Time Grand Finale Fireworks Celebration. Celebrate another successful festival with food, live entertainment and dazzling fireworks as Tulip Time goes out with a bang. Kollen Park. 6:30-11 pm. tuliptime.com
Coffee & Cocktails: Latte Art Throwdown. Ferris Coffee teams up with Long Road to bring the public a throwdown like no other, followed by dancing to tunes spun by a live DJ. Long Road Distillers. 7-10:30 pm. More on event’s Facebook page. ferriscoffee.com.
May 12 & 13
Michigan All-State Bonsai Show. The Gardens’ Grand Room fills with stunning bonsai displays and features specialty pots and growing supplies from a great selection of vendors. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 9-5 pm (Sat) and 11 am-5 pm (Sun). meijergardens.orgMay 13
Tulip Time Moederdag Market. Dutch for “Mother’s Day,” the Moederdag Market features specially selected merchants, live entertainment, gourmet food trucks, demonstrations and horse-drawn carriage rides, giving you plenty of ideas on how to make mom’s day great. Centennial Park. 11 am-4 pm. tuliptime.comYoga in the Tulips. Jessica Bradley of Happy Soul Yoga leads a relaxing yoga class among Holland’s beautiful outdoors during the Tulip Time Festival. 10-11 am (at Window on the Waterfront) and 2-2:30 pm (at Centennial Park). tuliptime.com
Mother’s Day Brunch. Executive Chef Andrew Alcid cooks up a delicious buffet of mouthwatering brunch items for the perfect outing with mom and the family. Wheelhouse Kitchen & Cocktails. 9-2:30 pm (brunch). 3-7 pm (regular dinner menu). Reservations at (616) 226-3319. wheelhousegrandrapids.com
The Vintage Street Market. Enjoy shopping through vintage clothes, jewelry and trinkets among the market vendors. The Downtown Market. 10 am-4 pm. vintagestreetmarket.com
May 13-19
Cider Week GR. Celebrate the local cider scene with barrels of tasting events and tours at neighborhood eateries, food and cider pairings, cider and paint classes and tons of taptakeovers culminating into the Cider Week GR Gillett Bridge Festival. Find events at ciderweekgr.com.May 14
Girl’s Lunch with the Networking Diva. Monica Sparks hosts this month’s networking lunch and invites ladies to expand their connections during this fresh networking event featuring a delicious, gourmet menu. Celebration! South. Noon-1 pm. RSVP on the Eventbrite page. radiofordivas.comWest Michigan Jazz Society Musician of the Year Banquet. Join WMJS in honoring saxophonist Bob Nixon of the GR Jazz Orchestra as they treat your listening ears and dancing feet to a jazz performance. Noto’s Old World Italian Dining.6-9:30 pm. Tickets at wmichjazz.org.
Circle Summer Concerts presents Silver Screen: Academy Award-Winning Songs. From historic ballads like The Way You Look Tonight to modern jams like La La Land’s City of Stars, to the gritty determination of 8 Mile to Disney hits, expect to experience hits from Oscar favorites throughout the ages in an up-close and intimate setting. Circle Theatre. 7 pm. Tickets at circletheatre.org.
May 15
Off the Wall. UICA’s galleries morph into a platform for artists to draw inspiration from each other through contemporary 10-30-minute performances viewed by attendees, who are immersed in the art of today. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. 6-9 pm. Tickets at uica.org.Ambition, Pragmatism and Party: A Political Biography of Gerald R. Ford. Author Scott Kaufman managed to capture the full scope of Ford’s political life and shares a detailed timeline of his journey with attendees. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. 7 pm. RSVP at fordlibrarymuseum.gov.
May 16
Established Division Workshop: Hiring is a Leadership Function, Not an HR Function. Learn what the hiring process should really be about during this workshop designed for CEOs. Lunch included. YWCA. 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Register at growbusiness.com.Healthy Living Lecture Series: Health Event. Learn more about living well with advice from the Mercy Health Doctors, exhibitor booths, shoulder and neck massages, free screenings and more. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. 12:30-4:30 pm. enjoylearning.com
Red Shoe Brew. Sip to support at Ronald McDonald’s House’s annual fundraiser featuring samples from many of the region’s favorite breweries, satisfying food, live music and more. Ronald McDonald House. 5-8 pm. Tickets at rmhwestmichigan.org.
Friends Just Like Me. GRCM accommodates to kids with Down Syndrome by transforming the exhibits into an environment that can be enjoyed by them, friends and family. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. 6-8 pm. grcm.org
Tom Hagen Trio feat. Rick Reuther jazz performance. Noto’s Old World Italian Dining. 6:30-9:30 pm. wmichjazz.org
Open Projector Night: 21st Show. Celebrate OPN’s 21st show with the addition of a cash bar and appetizers while enjoying a number short films submitted by local filmmakers. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. 8 pm. uica.org
May 17
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Molly (R&B soul). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full lineup at downtowngr.orgGreen Drinks with WMEAC. Network with a lively mix of people from NGO’s to sustainability experts over craft beer. The Sovengard. 5-7 pm. wmeac.org
Yoga at GRAM. Stretch into Triangle pose and admire GRAM’s beautiful architecture surrounding this Vinyasa-style yoga class. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 5:45-6:45 pm. artmuseumgr.org
Breast & Body Event. The Bengtson team is on-hand to present the latest innovations in breast and body procedures so you can decide what is right for you. Bengtson Center. 5-7 pm. RSVP at bengtsoncenter.com.
Reds, Whites & Brews. Indian Trails Camp invites you to join them for their 8th annual fundraiser that supports life-enhancing programs for those with disabilities while treating guests to wine and microbrew samples, hors d’oeuvres, a live auction and musical entertainment by Brena. The Downtown Market. 6-10 pm. Tickets on Eventbrite page. ikuslife.org
Beer Explorers: Beer, Bread & Fermentation. Learn how the yeast and bacteria used in beer is also used in bread production with beer samples paired with Field & Fire bread. 6:30-8 pm. Tickets at grpm.org.
Acoustic Café Series presents Rhiannon Giddens. St. Cecilia Music Center. 7:30 pm. Tickets at scmc-online.org.
May 17-20 & 24-26
The Flick. Meet three underpaid employees who work in a rundown movie theater, facing tiny battles and gripping heartbreaks as they go about keeping the theater going in this finely tuned comedic play by Actors’ Theatre GR. Spectrum Theater. 8 pm. Tickets at actorstheatregrandrapids.org.May 18
Wege Prize Final Competition and Awards. Watch at KCAD or tune in online to witness the five finalist teams present and defend their solutions for a sustainable future to a panel of expert judges in hopes of winning the coveted Wege Prize. 10 am (winners announced at 2 pm). More information at wegeprize.org.A Night with the Opera. You’re invited to Opera GR’s 50th anniversary featuring a captivating sit-down dinner theater experience and live entertainment by America’s Got Talent sensation, Forte. Opera Grand Rapids. 5:30-9:30 pm. Tickets at operagr.org.
Green Commute Expo. Make your way to the lakeshore for an event applauding and encouraging alternate forms of transportation with a presentation on different types of commuting options in the area and bike care demonstrations. City of Holland City Hall. 6-7:30 pm. wmeac.org
Reflective Film Series: Le Promenneur D’Oiseau. Dominican Center at Marywood. 7-9 pm. dominicancenter.com
May 18 & 19
Lass Laugh Comedy Festival. This inaugural festival celebrates the hilarious women in comedy with two days of stand-ups, improv shows and laughter workshops for all to attend. Dog Story Theater. Schedule at lasslaugh.com.GR Symphony presents Beethoven’s Ninth. Symphony No. 9 closes out GR Symphony’s season followed by a new musical work by GRS’s Ale Miller that leaves audience members eager for whatever is in store next season. DeVos Performance Hall. 8 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
May 19
Opening of Mirror Variations: The Art of Monir Shahroudy Farmanfarmaian. See sculptures and drawings that fuse Persian patterns influenced by mathematics with geometric abstract art, creating an exhibit heavy with captivating forms. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 10 am. Exhibit runs until August 26. artmuseumgr.org.Opening of Intersections exhibit. Anila Quayyum’s ArtPrize 6 winner returns to GRAM to immerse visitors in the lighting effects of a laser-cut cube. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 10 am. Exhibit runs until August 26. artmuseumgr.org.
Opening of the Zoo in You exhibit. Explore the world of trillions of microbes that live within the human body through interactive and engaging exhibits. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 10 am. Exhibit runs until Sep. 2. grpm.org
Beginner Floral Design Workshop. Whether you want to learn basic floral design or you’re sharing a belated Mother’s Day experience with mom, join florist Lindsay Laplow as she guides you through floral fundamentals as you make your own arrangement to take home. Grand Rapids Public Library. 1-2:30 pm. Register at grpl.org/register.
Cider Week GR Festival. End Cider Week GR with a toast and a party that has Michigan’s best cider-creators serving up samples, neighborhood eats onsite to accompany your drinks and local music to keep the beat going throughout the festival. Gillett Bridge. 1-5 pm. ciderweekgr.com
Meet the Animals. The Blandford team wants to introduce you to some of their friendliest critters during this interactive meet and greet. Blandford Nature Center. 2-3 pm. Register at blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Barley, BBQ & Beats: A Whiskey, BBQ & Music Festival. Leading pit masters showcase their best barbecue to pair with hand-crafted cocktails from select Michigan distilleries as live music from local favorites blasts the soundtrack to May’s tastiest festival. Van Andel Arena. 5-9 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
LowellArts House Concerts presents Seth Bernard. LowellArts. 7 pm. Tickets at lowellartsmi.org
May 20
LowellArts House Concerts presents The Porters Free Family Concert. LowellArts. 2 pm. Tickets at lowellartsmi.org.Forest Hills Adult Community Band Spring Concert. Treat your ears to a free afternoon concert featuring passionate musicians delivering a toe-tapping concert. Forest Hills High School. 2:30-3:30 pm. fhfineartscenter.com
Steve Martin & Martin Short. DeVos Performance Hall. 7:30 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
May 21
Grandparenting Journey class. New and soon-to-be grandparents learn the latest childbirth trends, updated infant care standards and how they can be the most help to their new grandchild. Spectrum Health Healthier Communities. 6:30 pm. Register at spectrumhealth.org.Trixie Mattel: Now with Moving Parts tour. DeVos Performance Hall. 8 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com
Lunch & Learn: Geometry in Art. Pack a lunch and join the art museum to explore the connection between art and geometry. Grand Rapids Art Museum. Noon-1 pm. artmuseumgr.org
May 24
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Matt Gabriel (folk/blues). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full lineup at downtowngr.orgGROW Planning for a Healthy Business. Learn how the planning process is crucial to all stages of business ownership along with covering resource plans, creating healthy relationships with lenders and developing a business plan. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women. 2-5 pm. Register at growbusiness.org.
Suggestions and Help for Christian Parents and Their LGBTQ+ Children with Dr. Matthew Clark. Wealthy Theatre. 7 pm. Tickets at grcmc.org.
Adulting 101: Tips to Create and Manage Your Spending Plan. Learn how to develop your own spending plan that secures your financial future at this free workshop. Grand Rapids Public Library. 7 pm. grpl.org
May 24-27
GeekFest. From live dungeons and dragons shows to table top and video game tournaments, this festival celebrates everything nerd culture. Dog Story Theater. Schedule at dogstorytheater.com.May 25
Opening of Masayuki Koorida: Beyond Existence exhibit. Featuring works by the well-known sculptor, this new exhibit captures Koorida’s compelling repertoire in both sculpture and drawings. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Exhibit runs until August 19. meijergardens.orgMay 26
Made in MI Pop-up Market. Stock up on Mitten pride with Michigan-made jewelry, clothing, housewares and homemade treats. The Downtown Market. 9 am-4 pm. mipopup.com.GRAM Drop-In Tour: Fem Gems-Women in Art. Explore the scads of women representation in GRAM’s art collection while learning the secrets behind women’s messages in their work. Grand Rapids Art Museum. 1-2 pm. artmuseumgr.org
May 30
Han-Mo Koo Memorial Award and Lecture. Join VAI in honoring Dr. Harold Varmus, recipient of this year’s Han-Mo Koo Memorial, starting with a wine and cheese reception followed by a fascinating lecture by Dr. Varmus on the art and politics of science. Van Andel Institute. 4-6 pm. Scientific lecture occurs May 31, 10 am. Register at vai.orgThe Bar Exam: Chef’s Take on Craft Beer & Food Pairings. Chef Mark Rickerd of Gilmore Catering delivers a pint-to-plate experience as he shows you how to pair your favorite craft beer with a variety of dishes. Paddock Place. 6-7 pm. thebob.com
Connor’s Friends. GRCM invites people and families of autism to a night of play with dimmed lighting, sensory activities and water play surrounded by calming music. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. 6-8 pm. grcm.org
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents Tedeschi Trucks Band. The finest national and international musicians are brought to the Gardens’ beautiful, outdoor amphitheater to thrill music-lovers of all genres with glorious performances. Food and drink concessions available at venue. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 6:30 pm. Lineup, schedule and tickets at meijergardens.org.
May 31
Han-Mo Koo Memorial Award Scientific Lecture by Dr. Harold Varmus. Van Andel Institute. 10-11:30 am. Register at vai.org.Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Asamu Johnson & The Associates of the Blues (blues). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full lineup at downtowngr.org
A Few Good Men. Feel the intensity of the courtroom during this dramatic performance that portrays the trial of two Marines accused of being responsible for the death of another. Circle Theatre. 7:30 pm. Tickets at circletheatre.org.
