Good morning, Grand Rapids. I’m LeQwane and this is Calder News — and fair warning: today’s issue is on the shorter side.
It turns out the news slowed down this weekend. I suppose that ArtPrize has taken over everyone’s interest, but hey, that just means you can catch up quickly and get on with your Monday.
~LeQwane L.
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The Digest
A briefing of local news that matters
Arts & Entertainment
Midtown Shifts Focus
Midtown, the chill venue inside Studio Park on Ionia Ave. SW is becoming a private events venue (alongside live shows). The space features a stage, bar, and catering from One Twenty Three Tavern. While concerts and comedy will continue, Studio Park is prioritizing rentals for events like parties, presentations, and corporate gatherings to keep the venue sustainable. | View more
Safety
Human Trafficking Awareness For ArtPrize
If you visit ArtPrize, you’ll notice posters around downtown highlighting resources on human trafficking. Why? Wedgwood Christian Services is using the event to educate the public and ensure help is visible for anyone who may feel unsafe. The group stresses that trafficking can be hidden in plain sight and encourages people not to intervene directly but to contact security, law enforcement, or the National Human Trafficking Tip Line if something seems wrong. | Read more
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Getting Around ArtPrize 2025
ArtPrize has taken over downtown with more than 900 exhibits across 155 venues spread over five districts.
And last week, the city released a guide to help you. The gist?
Avoid driving where possible — free DASH shuttles run every 15 minutes with 25 stops covering downtown, the West Side, and East Uptown
Free parking can be found on the edges of downtown
Look for “VENUE” signs to spot official ArtPrize locations
E-scooters and e-bikes are available around town, with rides averaging under $4 and parking spots often placed near exhibit clusters like City Hall.
From downtown, it’s only about a mile and a half to the farthest venue, so whether you’re walking, riding, or hopping the shuttle, it’s easy to make a day of it.
Talk Of The Town
👨🎨 Conando To Unveil Art For A Cause
On Thursday, Condado Tacos on the west side is unveiling new artwork that’ll honor a 15-year-old fan (Kai) of the restaurant who died earlier this year. In addition to the reveal, there will be a benefit dinner to raise funds for a local organization that was important to Kai and his family.
🏒 Hockey Pros Come To Town
Yesterday, the Detroit Red Wings came to town for a “Red & White Game” where they did a scrimmage, photos/ signings, and other fun for the crowd.
🧱 LEGO Takeover
The Brickworld LEGO Expo is coming to downtown this weekend. This is the third time the event has occurred and will feature LEGO-focused play areas, displays, vendors, and more.
What’s Happening?
Preview: Events —> Live Music
Monday, September 22nd
SILVA’s Got Talent | Silva GR | 7 PM | $15
Reb Beach Guitar Clinic | Firehouse Guitars (Grandville) | 6 PM | Free
Tuesday, September 23rd
Art Battle | Bio Philia Gallery | 7 PM | $16+
Wednesday, September 24th
Celebrate the Harvest | Goei Center | 5:30 PM - 8 PM | $125
Marking Time | Grey Rabbit | 5:30 PM | ?
Cadillac Crew | Grand Rapids Public Museum | (Wed - Sun) 7 PM | $20
Ladies Wine Night | Vivant | 6:30 PM | Free
All Week
Community Access | Blandford Nature Center | Free admission
Various family/ individual events | Local Library | Free | Check out 30+ recurring or one-off events being hosted at your local public library this week
Live Music
Monday, September 22nd
The Kennedy Affair | The Score | 6 PM | Free
Powerwolf | GLC Live | 6:30 PM | $59+
Full Body 2 + Giant Claw + Silent Spirit | Pyramid Scheme | 7 PM | $21
Tuesday, September 23rd
Decades | The Score | 6 PM | Free
Carcass | The Intersection | 6 PM | $21+
KALEO | GLC LIVE | 6:30 PM | $64+
Spanish Love Songs + Bike Routes + World's Greatest Dad | Pyramid Scheme | 6:30 PM | $33+
Wednesday, September 24th
Hannah Rose Graves Send off | Founders | 4 PM | Free
Mr. Smith & the Jones | The Score | 6 PM | Free
*Shows are subject to change, but that’s show biz.
Outside The Plaza
Quick hits of news from cities around Grand Rapids
That’s All For Today…
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