Good afternoon, Grand Rapids. I’m LeQwane and this is Calder News. We’re just about halfway to Christmas, and I still haven’t quite picked out gifts...
I guess I’ll spend this weekend, think it through, and get my friends and family something from the heart…
And then (maybe) pick it up early next week. 😆
Speaking of gifts, there are a handful of holiday markets in today’s events section. Also, we interviewed with the organizers of the Christkindlmarkt, so check that out as well!
~LeQwane L.
‘Tis The Season To Feel Your Emotions
Together with: Ivy Leaf Counseling
Click the image to learn more
While the holidays can bring up a lot of joy, they can also be complicated and add pressure, all at the same time.
One helpful practice is taking a minute to pause, notice what you’re feeling, and give those emotions what they need.
It’s simple, but it really works.
If you want some extra support this holiday season, Ivy Leaf Counseling is offering free 15-minute consultations (in person or on the phone) with licensed counselor Ashleigh Krygsheld.
A great local resource if you’re navigating stress, big feelings, family, or relationship challenges this holiday.
20,000+ GR residents who are professionals, business owners, parents, etc, look forward to Calder News. Learn how we can help you reach them with your message.
The Digest
A briefing of local news that matters
Housing
Bank HQ Becomes 140 Apartments
The Fifth Third building downtown is on its way to becoming 140 apartments. The 1st to 3rd floors will remain Fifth Third’s HQ, while everything above that will be 1-2 bedroom apartments that have estimated rents ~$1,500 to ~$2,000. Move-ins are planned for late May or early June. | Check out early images
Family Fare Gets Demolished
Construction has started on Breton Meadows, the apartment building replacing the former Family Fare on Breton (in Kentwood). Partially funded by ~$15M in brownfield reimbursements, the complex will have 170 1-2 bedroom apartments. with first set of units is planned to be completed by early 2027. | Read more
Transportation
US-131 Needs Half Bill in Upgrades
It’s official, the state agrees that US-131 isn’t up to par. MDOT says the stretch of US-131 from Cherry St. to 28th St. needs some big upgrades. And a recent report by AECOM showed the work could cost $500M+. MDOT is planning to run another study in 2026 for the Wealthy St. interchange. | Review the suggested upgrades (report)
Recreation
EGR Lands $500K for Park Improvements
East Grand Rapids received $500,000 in grants to improve the park at Reeds Lake. The updates will make its trails and boardwalks more accessible, add overlook decks, an outdoor classroom, improve wetlands, and its parking. Given that the project gets federal approval, construction would start in 2027. | Read more
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Ask Grand Rapids 🤔
Don’t worry, I won’t share these results with anyone. I’m just curious. 👀
Talk Of The Town
❄️ Method To The Madness
On Thursday, the city confirmed there’s a method to the madness that is snow removal. Highlighting which streets get “first and secondary attention” following a big snowfall.
🎁 Creston’s Very Own Festive Marketplace
Next week, the Creston neighborhood is hosting its own Christmas market, properly named “CrestKindl”. The annual market will have pop-ups, lights, and holiday vibes.
🤝 Cram The Crusier
Tomorrow, Sam’s Club in Kentwood (28th St. location) is linking up with the KPD to support locals in need. They’re asking for donations of non-perishable food goods.
Talking Shop
✂️ Echo Salon → A new color, cut, and extension salon just opened in the Creston community. They’re currently doing opening week deals.
🍃 Lavender & Leaf → Lavender & Leaf holistic goods and wellness supplies store is hosting its grand opening on the NE side of town today, 1 PM - 5 PM.
Sports
🏀 Grand Rapids Gold beat the Windy City Bulls at home on Tuesday and lost to them on Thursday, 142:129 and 134:139 - their next game away in Oshkosh, WI.
🏒 Grand Rapids Griffins take on the Rockford IceHogs on Saturday
What’s Happening?
Friday, December 12th
Randy Feltface | Dr. Grin’s | (Fri - Sat) Various times | $32+
Weavers & Spinners Holiday Fiber Arts Market | SE GR | 9 AM | Free
Holiday Soiree | The Villa | 6 PM | Free
Holiday Craft and Sweater Making | Elks Lodge No.48 | ?
The Lighted Christmas Path | Orchard Hill Church | (Fri - Mon) 6 PM - 9 PM | Free
Home for the Holidays: Celebration | 2550 E Beltline Ave NE | 6 PM - 9:30 PM | $20+
Aerial Lounge After Dark | 7 PM - 9 PM | $5
The Nutcracker 2025 | DeVos Performance Hall | (12/12 - 12/21) 7:30 PM | $55+
Who's Holiday! | Ambrosia Theater | (12/12 - 12/21) 7:30 PM | $28+
Saturday, December 13th
FROZEN: The Musical (Second to Last Week) | Civic Theatre | Various times | $25+
Decorate your own Ornament | Sweda Studio | 9 AM - 2 PM | $25 ($5 off signing up online)
Switcholio Cornhole Tournament | Dinks & Dingers | 12:30 PM | $20 Register
Eastown Swing | Harmony Brewing | 1 PM - 3 PM | ?
Grand Rapids Griffins VS Rockford Icehogs | Van Andel Arena | 4 PM | $29+
Holiday Markets
Ferris Coffee & Nut | 9 AM - 2 PM
The Stray | 10 AM - 3 PM
Mulligan’s Annual Xmas Market | 2 PM - 8 PM
Sunday, December 14th
Winter Holiday Market | Fulton St. | 11 AM
Pancakes at the North Pole | Main Event | 11 AM - 2 PM | $32
Holiday Book & Puzzle Swap | InBooze | 1 PM
Coney Island Christmas | Spectrum Theater | 3 PM | $15+
Holiday Markets
City Built Brewing | 12 PM - 5 PM
Live Music
Friday, December 12th
Youth Renaissance Night | 1258 Madison | 2 PM
The John Shea Trio | Horrock’s Market | 6 PM
DJ Night | Two James Spirits | 7 PM | Free
Jonas Brothers | Van Andel Arena | 7 PM | $62
Nathan Walton | Fulton Pub | 7 PM - 9 PM
Kevin Reeves | Downtown Market | 7 PM
3rd Annual Ugly Sweater Party ft. Midwest Skies + Hexing + On Vacation + Years Later | Pyramid Scheme | 7 PM | $15
DJ JP Krick | Rapid River Stillhouse | 8 PM
Screamin Rbel Angels wsg Kitten & The Tonics | Tip Top | 8 PM | $10
YOOKiE | The Stache | 8 PM | ?
Tony Thompson | The BOB | 9 PM - 1 AM
Live Rock | Mulligan’s Pub | 10 PM
Saturday, December 13th
BJustClever | Horrocks | 6 PM
Ian Ormiston | Brickyard Tavern | 6 PM
OID Goat with Ella J | The Old Goat | 6 PM
The Warped Band | The Stache | 7 PM | $22
Joshua Tree | 120 division s | 7 PM | Free
St. Sinner Orchestra & Wendell Kimbrough | The Stray | 7 PM | $19
West Michigan Voices of Pride Winter Concert | St. Cecilia Music Center | (Sat, Sun) 7 PM, 3 PM | $20
Drop the Mic Challenge | The DAAC | 7 PM | $10
Mr Sun Plays Ellington's Nutcracker | Midtown | 7:30 PM | $30
Kaylyn Pac | Rapid River Stillhouse | 8 PM | $5
The Soul Syndicate | Billy’s Lounge | 8 PM | $10
The Moonrays, The Plural Nouns, Shark Beach 2 | Tip Top | 6 PM | $12.25
RÁK-Stars Karaoke Night | Downtown Market | 8 PM
The Black Temple, Rip VanRipper, Attrition Cult | Mulligan’s Pub | 10 PM
Sunday, December 14th
In Dulce Jubilo | 2200 Pettis Ave. NE | 2:30 PM
Red Rose Music Lab Holiday Show | Horrocks Market | 3 PM | Free
Sophia McIntosh | Downtown Market | 6 PM
Pinball Disco ft. The DJ Bob Marino + Drop Catch + Dreas + Reedbriefcase | The Pyramid Scheme | 8 PM
*Shows are subject to change, but that’s show biz.
Outside The Plaza
Quick hits of news from cities around Grand Rapids
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That’s All For Today…
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