Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Summer flew by too fast. I’m sorry to say that I mentioned the school year starting in today’s newsletter.

I’m gonna milk this last month of summer for all it’s worth. But if you’re looking forward to the cold, the wait will be over soon, my friend.

(P.s Turns out our comment section was broken last week. If you had an error when answering our question about the burgers, that was on us!)

~Jenny F.

Together with: Independent Bank

A historic bank is about to move into a historic building downtown.

Independent Bank has been guarding Michigan’s money for the last 162 years.

The company is about to move into The Founders Building, which has been gracing the corner of Ottawa and Fountain for 146 years. History has truly come full circle, as the Founders Building was originally erected to house a bank, and now it will do so again.

This new flagship location will have offices, meeting spaces, and working areas for employees as well as a working retail banking branch.

❄ 4 Million Visit World Of Winter

World of Winter, a 2-month-long winter art installation event, brought 3.9 million visitors out of hibernation last winter. Not only that, but it generated $38 million for downtown businesses. Restaurants appreciate the annual festival, which brings more foot traffic during their slow season. World of Winter kicks off for its sixth year on January 8th.

🌭 Free Hot Dogs at Creston Night Out

You can swim until 8 pm and enjoy free hot dogs and games at Creston Night Out, happening Thursday, August 6th from 4-7 pm at Briggs Park. Other highlights include a bounce house, shaved ice, and booths from local organizations.

Dave’s Hot Chicken is opening not one, but two West Michigan locations. The first on 44th Street will open before the end of the year, followed by one on 28th Street.

✅ Other new businesses

What started as a mobile soda bar for events is now becoming a brick-and-mortar shop. Throw It Back Dirty Soda is holding its grand opening at Rivertown Mall on Saturday, August 15th.

It’s officially August, and if you’re already looking forward to your first pumpkin spice latte, then you’ll want to know that Spirit Halloween’s Alpine Location is already open. The 28th Street and Grandville spots are opening soon.

Summer is winding down, and before we know it, the kids will be waiting at the bus stops, ready to start another school year. GRPS goes back August 24th, which means it’s time to buy pencils, bookbags, and long sleeves that fit.

The start of the school year can be costly, but there are events around town that help take away a bit of the burden.

Visit Devos Place on August 12th and 13th for SHOES 2026, where elementary-aged kids can get a free pair of new athletic shoes for the school season. August 16th is Back to School Bash at Kelloggsville Middle, where kids can get backpacks, supplies, and even haircuts.

Find a back to school event happening near you.

A briefing of local news that matters

Have news to report? Click here.

*Shows are subject to change, but that’s show biz.

Made for Grand Rapids locals by locals. 📍