Good morning, Grand Rapids. I’m LeQwane and this is Calder News — and only in Michigan can September show up and already feel like November.

Grab that jacket, maybe some gloves, and let’s get into what’s happening around town.

~LeQwane L.

Together with: Grand Rapids Ballet

The Grand Rapids Ballet is hosting its annual Gala and Soirée on Friday, October 10, 2025, at St. Cecilia Music Center.

This signature event combines performance, dinner, and dancing in support of Michigan’s only professional ballet company.

Your attendance helps sustain world-class artistry and community programs that bring the joy of dance to West Michigan.

Be part of a night where elegance meets purpose.

Calder News is possible thanks to the support of our partners. 🤝 Want your business in front of 5,000 locals reading this newsletter next? Contact me: [email protected]

Education

After an incident last week, Grand Valley State University has rolled out stricter safety measures for its dorms. Students must now register guests, with only one visitor allowed per resident, and quiet hours start earlier on weekends. Some dorms are limited to a single entrance with ID checks, and nearby parking lots will close overnight at 10 PM. | Read more

City

Here’s an interesting one… A new report says Grand Rapids could raise to $8.1 million a year by adding a tax on tickets for concerts, games, and shows. Implementing something like this would need approval from lawmakers, city officials, and the community before moving forward. The study also noted that 34 states allow similar taxes on entertainment events. What are the chances we make Michigan the 35th? | Learn more

Community

Earlier this week, work started on Covered Bridge Park, a 15-acre project near Ada’s historic bridge. The $8.5 million project will bring a splash pad, playground, pickleball courts, dog park, veteran’s memorial, and a kayak launch, plus boardwalks and river overlooks to Ada village. The initial construction will wrap up by the EOY. And be fully complete by mid-2026. | Read more

Last year, this event took over Reddit and Facebook every other day with people reporting “mystery lights” on the NE side of town.

So here’s your heads up:

Frederik Meijer Gardens is bringing back its holiday light show, ENLIGHTEN, from November 24th to January 3rd, 2026.

The event has a 1-mile outdoor path that will feature synchronized light displays, interactive elements, and seasonal food and drink, including an expanded beer garden.

Last year’s debut drew 80,000 visitors, and it’s thought this year could be even bigger.

Tickets range from $10–$24 and go on sale September 15th.

🦛 The Zoo Welcomes A Hippo Calf

History was made at John Ball Zoo yesterday following the birth of a baby hippo calf (the zoo’s first baby hippo). The Pygmy hippo was documented on their Facebook.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Arc Kent County Celebrates 75 Years

Business Openings:

Five Below - A new Five Below is opening at the Waterfall Shoppes near Patterson Avenue on the far east side of 28th Street.

Haludam Grand Rapids - Breton is getting its own high vibes and local feeling Korean Restaurant soon.

Montejo's Cookhouse - Visit a school bus turned diner and enjoy authentic Cuban pizzas at 154 28th St. SW (sounds wild, but it's a pretty cool concept!)

Submit a message, announcement, shout-out, etc, for your business.

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

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Made with ❤ in Grand Rapids