August 2018 Events
Aug 08, 2018 10:00AM ● By WLMagazineMondays
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.com
Open 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.
Mondays through August 20
Jazz in the Park. Unwind Monday evenings at the park where West Michigan Jazz Society has set the stage for local jazz performances, free to the community. Ah-Nab-Awen Park. 6:30-8:30 pm. Full line-up at wmichjazz.org
Tuesdays
Tuesday Evening Music Club. Summer serenades with concerts performed by talented local and regional artists, surrounded by the outdoor beauty of the amphitheater. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Full line-up at meijergardens.org.
Wednesdays & Saturdays
Holland Farmers Market. Fill your fridge and pantry with fresh finds at the Holland’s farmers market featuring over 50 vendors selling fruit, vegetables, flowers, breads, homemade goods and more. Eighth Street Market Place. 8 am-3 pm. Find weekly market features at hollandfarmersmarket.com.
Thursdays
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 line-up at downtowngr.org
Street Performances in Downtown Holland. Street performers, selected by the city of Holland to bring the best, add live entertainment to Holland’s 8th Street strip as they perform their dynamic talents for passersby. 8th Street Downtown Holland. 6:30-8:30 pm. downtownholland.com
Thursdays through August 23
Lowell Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts. Amp up your night with a free outdoor concert in front of the Flat River in Lowell, featuring talented performers who specialize in genres across the musical board, good eats and a cash bar. Riverwalk Plaza. 7-9 pm. Full line-up at discoverlowell.org.
Fridays through August 24
Holland Summer Concert Series. Bring your chairs, a picnic dinner and dancing shoes for a free concert in the great outdoors performed by a line-up of talented, local musicians. Kollen Park. 6:30-8:30 pm. downtownholland.com
Saturdays
Ruff Runners GR running group. You and your energetic dog are invited to frolik and socialize with others at this special running group designed for humans and their canine companions. Meet outside Fido & Stitch. 9 am. Updates on event’s Facebook page. fidoandstitch.com
Grand Rapids Public Library. Mindstorm Saturdays. Kids ages 10 and up can explore robotics every Saturday at the library. Using Lego Mindstorms EV3 kits, these hands-on robotics teach essential coding skills, problem solving, and more. This is a self-guided, drop-in event. 10:00 am. Main Library. grpl.org.
Ongoing
Be the Astronaut exhibit. Visitors are put in the boots of an astronaut and take command of futuristic space vehicles to explore the universe through the interactive exhibit that merges tangible displays with video game technology. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 10 am. Exhibit runs until Sep. 16. grpm.org
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. Exhibit runs until Sep. 2. Hours at grpm.org.
Grand Rapids Public Library. GR Reads: Summer Reading All Grown Up. The Grand Rapids Public Library has once again partnered with area organizations to present GR Reads, a summer reading program designed for adults. Come discover the ten interesting books that our smart staff have selected, and join your neighbors for fun, informative programs that are inspired by the books. All locations. Through August 31. Grpl.org.
Through August 3
Beibei & Leilei Chen Exhibit. Leilei Chen and Beibei Chen are twin sisters from China, and have worked collaboratively together in creating the series of paintings and ceramics in their exhibit. This exhibit runs till August 22. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. More info a fhfineartscenter.com.
Through August 4
School of Rock (SRTI Youth Musical). Rock out in this theatrical adaptation of the movie where hopes-to-be rockstar, Dewy Finn, makes a band with the students in his substitute class to compete in the upcoming Battle of the Bands competition. Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. Tickets and showtimes at grct.org.
Portrait Photography. Matthew Provoast will teach a hands-on workshop to those with DSLR and mirrorless cameras on how to shoot compelling portrait photography. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 10 am – 1 pm Purchase tickets ($60) at lightgallerygr.com.
Through August 19
Masayuki Koorida: Beyond Existence exhibit. Featuring works by the well-known sculptor, this exhibit captures Koorida’s compelling repertoire in both sculpture and drawings. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Exhibit runs until August 19. meijergardens.org
Through August 26
Mirror Variations: The Art of Monir Shahroudy Farmanfarmaian. See sculptures and drawings that fuse Persian patterns influenced by mathematics with geometric abstract art to create captivating forms. Grand Rapids Art Museum. Hours at artmuseumgr.org.
Transitions: New Photography from Bangladesh. Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts. Gallery hours at uica.org.
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. Hours at artmuseumgr.org.
August 1
97 LAV Summertime Blues Concert Series. Some of GR’s favorite blues artists return for another season of the annual free concert series, taking place on the Preferred Credit Union Stage. DeltaPlex. 6 pm. deltaplex.com
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents Styx. 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. 7 pm. Line-up, schedule and tickets at meijergardens.org.
Grand Rapids Public Library presents Bubble Man Ron. Bubbleman Ron uses an ordinary soap bubble solution to create square bubbles, merry-go-round bubbles, bubbles inside of bubbles inside of bubbles, tornado bubbles, and much more! Join us for this entertaining blend of science and fun! 10:30 am (Seymour Branch), 3:00 pm (Yankee Clipper Branch), 6:30 pm (Main Library) grpl.org.
August 2
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Turbo Pup (indie/folk). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full line-up at downtowngr.org
Punch Needle Embroidery. Learn the fundamentals of punch needle embroidery with Erika Townsley, who leaves attendees with the knowledge and supplies to do wall hangings, pillows and rugs. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6-9 pm. Purchase tickets ($45) at lightgallerygr.com.
How to Draw Wildlife. Take an in depth look at drawing wildlife with the Blandford staff as you examine still life animals to understand structure and use that knowledge to draw a picture of your pet. Blandford Nature Center. 6-7:30 pm. Register at blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Lowell Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts presents The Thirsty Perch Blues Band. Riverwalk Plaza. 7-9 pm. Full line-up at discoverlowell.org.
Grand Rapids Public Library. Falcons and Chimney Swifts: An Urban Birdwalk. Join the Grand Rapids Audubon Club for a walk around downtown to see birds that have found ways to thrive in heavily populated areas. 7:00pm. Main Library. grpl.org.
D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops presents Tito Puente Jr. The Latin music musician embodies his Grammy-winning father, delivering high-voltage jazz music and Latin beats that audience members can’t help but move their feet to. Cannonsburg Ski Hill. 7:30 pm. Tickets at grsymphony.org.
Join the GRPM’s Chaffee Planetarium for a special evening for the full astronaut experience! Start the evening in the planetarium watching Space School, a new documentary based show, to learn the incredible story of how astronauts train underwater to live and work in space. Missions will be given to participants to see if they can complete the tasks and reach their destination! grpm.org.
Join Grand Rapids Public Library for a Writing Workshop with Shani Womack. Flint native Shani Womack brings her love of community and storytelling in this writing workshop for teens ages 11-18. 3:00pm. Main Library. grpl.org.
August 2 - 4
The B.O.B presents stand up comedian Quinn Dahle. With appearances on “The Tonight Show,” Showtime, Comedy Central, “Lopez Tonight” and “Carson Daly,” Quinn is a smart, clean and witty stand-up comic with impeccable timing. Purchase tickets at thebob.com.
August 2 & 16
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.org
August 3-24
Beibei & Leilei Chen Exhibit. Check out this paintings and ceramics exhibit by twin sisters from China whose art is influenced by Chinese culture, aesthetics and philosophy. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center (600 Forest Hill Avenue SE). fhfineartscenter.com.
August 3
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.com
D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops presents Ben Folds. Summer’s premium concert experience on the ski hill wraps up with an unforgettable performance by Ben Folds accompanied by the live orchestral talent of the GR Symphony. Cannonsburg Ski Hill. 7:30 pm. Tickets at grsymphony.org.
Movies on Monroe: Shrek and Hidden Figures. Enjoy an outdoor screening of a blockbuster movie on GR’s giant movie screen. Attendees are permitted to bring their own snacks and beverages (alcohol restricted to beer and wine only). North Monroe Parking Lot (across from SpeakEZ). 6:30 pm (movies begin at 7:30 pm). Full line-up at downtowngr.org.
August 5
Chain making workshop. 2+ hour workshop that covers using the acetylene torch and how to make jumps rings out of wire and solder them individually to make a chain. Materials include copper wire and a 1 foot length of sterling silver wire. Different kinds of chain will be taught and will also cover finishing and clasp techniques. Please wear closed toe shoes and have hair tied back for safety. The Hot Spot GR. 10 am-11 am. Register at thehotspotgr.com
August 6
Jazz in the Park presents Mary Rademacher. Ah-Nab-Awen Park. 6:30-8:30 pm. wmichjazz.org
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents Vince Gill. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
Lindsey Stirling: Brave Enough concert. DeVos Performance Hall. 8 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
Watercolor Painting. In this four-day workshop, students with some experience in watercolor will paint their own subjects and determine what kind of skills and subject matters they want to learn more about. LowellArts (223 W Main Street). 6:30 pm- 9pm. Purchase tickets ($105) at lowellartsmi.org.
August 7 & 8
Grand Rapids public Library invites you to the Summer Reading Celebration. Join us for a fun celebration at your favorite GRPL location! Enjoy crafts and refreshments, and be sure to pick up your finisher swag bag and t-shirt. 10:30 am (Main Library) , 2:00 pm (Madison Square Branch), August 8th, 10:30 am (Main Library), 3:00 pm (Ottawa Hill Branch), 6:30 pm (Main Library). grpl.org.
August 7
Slayer feat. Lamb of God, Anthrax, Testament and Napalm Death. Van Andel Arena. 5 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
Kokedama (Moss Ball). Take a crack at assembling this Japanese Bonsai plant and learn how to take care of it at home. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 7-8 pm. Purchase tickets ($25) at lightgallerygr.com.
“Live from Dhaka” Screening + Panel Talk. Head over to the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts for a one-night-only screening of this film focused on Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Afterwards, there will be a panel discussion about the film, contemporary life in Dhaka, immigration and women’s rights. UICA (2 Fulton Street W). 7 pm-pm. Tickets are $8 and more information can be found at uica.org.
Beer Run. Get into the running game the Beer City way by joining runners of all levels on a 3-5-mile course in the hosting neighborhood followed by beer, snacks, door prizes and fun with the people of the GR Marathon. New Holland: The Knickerbocker. 6:30 pm. Full schedule at grandrapidsmarathon.com.
Tuesday Evening Music Club presents Nessa and The Moxie Strings. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Full line-up at meijergardens.org.
Wealthy Street Theatre presents GR Reads: The Movies - Total Recall. Based on the Philip K. Dick novel We Can Remember It for You Wholesale. Tickets are $3 with valid GRPL library card. 8 pm. grpl.org.
August 8
Free Student Heart Screenings. Students entering 9th grade to 12th-graders are invited to a free heart screening session including a blood pressure check, 12-lead EKG, physician exam and an echocardiogram if needed. Mercy Health (Hackley Campus). Schedule at mercyhealth.com/studentheart.
Modern Calligraphy + Sign. Take a beginner’s workshop in the basics calligraphy. Optional: Stay an hour later and create a reusable sign to take home. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6 pm-8 pm. August 8. Purchase tickets ($35) at lightgallerygr.com.
97LAV Summertime Blues Concert Series: Wayne Baker Brooks DeltaPlex. 6 pm. deltaplex.com
David Byrne American Utopia concert. The rock legend performs songs from his new album along with classics from his solo career and as the front-man of the band Talking Heads. DeVos Performance Hall. 8-11 pm. Tickets at devosperformancehall.com.
The Cheese Lady is hosting Cheese 101. Learn the basic process of how cheese is made, learn and taste the differences between Raw and Pasteurized, Sheep, Cow, and Goat, and many different families of cheese from around the globe. Many cheese samples and appropriate pairings are included. The Cheese Lady Grand Rapids. 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Get more info at thecheeselady.net
Local First’s 15th Birthday Party. Local First invites everyone in our West Michigan community to our 15th Birthday Party. This fundraising event will celebrate our members, our achievements, and everything we’ve done together to put local first. Founders Brewing Company. 6 pm. localfirst.com.
Community Dog Walk. Join Nature of the Dog -GR Dog Walking Company for a community dog walk. Paddock Place. 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm. uptowngr.com.
August 9
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Cabildo (world/Latin). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full line-up at downtowngr.org
Artist’s Reception forBeibei and Leilei Chen. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center. 6-7 pm. fhfineartscenter.com
Kids Creative Art Class. Kids and parents are invited to make art in a new way using sticks, leaves and more of nature’s media. Blandford Nature Center. 6-7:30 pm. Register at blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Wall Tapestry Weaving. Using a loom, needle, yarn and wool, learn how to weave your own tapestry and complete a wall hanging to take home. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6-9 pm. Purchase tickets ($35) at lightgallerygr.com.
Lowell Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts presents Go to the Fair. Riverwalk Plaza. 7-9 pm. Full line-up at discoverlowell.org.
Beibei & Leilei Chen Exhibit Reception. Check out this paintings and ceramics exhibit by twin sisters from China whose art is influenced by Chinese culture, aesthetics and philosophy. Forest Hills Fine Arts Center (600 Forest Hill Avenue SE). 6 – 7 pm. fhfineartscenter.com.
Science on Tap: Exploring the Ecology of the Great Lakes. Join Dr. Mark Luttenton from GVSU for a deep dive into the ecology of the Great Lakes. When the Europeans first arrived, the Great Lakes ecosystem had been evolving into a diverse and stable ecosystem. Grand rapids Public Library. 8-10 pm. grpl.org.
Code Camp: Build a Business with Junior Achievement. Come join Junior Achievement at the Grand Rapids Public Library for Code Camp, a JA Company Program. The camp is a 10-week session on how to solve a problem in the community by launching your own start-up business app. Unleash your creative entrepreneurial spirit and start building career skills for a high school job,vocational job, or college resume. Grand Rapids Public Library. 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm and 11 am-noon. grpl.org.
August 9-11
The B.O.B presents Michael Palascak. Fueled by original, personal point of views about living at home with his parents, Michael made appearances on both The Late Show with David Letterman and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno within six months of each other—a feat rarely achieved by a new comic. Michael finished in the Top 5 on “Last Comic Standing” and went on a 75 city tour with the other Top 5 contestants cementing his place in the show’s storied history of talented comics. Purchase tickets at thebob.com
August 9-11, 15-19 & 22-25
Leading Ladies. Follow the hilarity that ensues when two actors disguise themselves as an old woman’s nieces, hoping to get the large fortune she leaves behind in her passing. Circle Theatre. Tickets and showtimes at circletheatre.org.
August 10
Volunteer Education session. Those interested in becoming a volunteer tutor are invited to a free information session that teaches attendees more about the center’s programs. Literacy Center of West Michigan. 2-3 pm. literacycenterwm.org
Abstract Wall Hanging. Start with a blank canvas and spend the night creating a wooden dowel hanging tapestry to decorate your home or gift a friend. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6 – 8 pm. Purchase tickets ($45) at lightgallerygr.com.
Sugarland Feat. Frankie Ballard & Lindsay Ell concert. Van Andel Arena. 7 pm. Tickets at vanandelarena.com.
Genealogy Lock-In. Come to the Grand Rapids History and Special Collections Department for a free after-hours program just for genealogists. Learn how to use the library databases, newspaper microfilm and other resources, and take advantage of free copying and printing during the event. Grand Rapids Public Library. 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm. grpl.org.
August 11
Grand Rapids Public Library presents Lawn Party Extravaganza. Celebrate summer and all things Alice with giant lawn games, Wonderland crafts, and tasty treats. Dress as your favorite character and be prepared to have so much fun you will leave grinning like a Cheshire Cat. 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. Riverside Park. grpl.org.
Art on Center. Join LaFontsee Galleries for this monthly local art gallery stroll in Douglas, MI. LaFontsee Galleries (410 W Center Street Douglas, MI 49406). 6pm-8pm. Admission is free. lafontsee.us.
Product Photography. Whether you have a smartphone or a DSLR, join this workshop to learn tips and tricks on product photography, from placement to lighting. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 10 am – 12 pm. Purchase tickets ($40) at lightgallerygr.com.
August 12
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
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents The Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’ Band. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org
Enamel Workshop. Learn how to take powdered glass and layer it on copper for a fun enamel finish. Skills learned will be how to use the die cut to make copper discs and different techniques for layering the powdered enamel down. Students will have made a pair of earrings or a couple pendants by the end of the 2+ hour class. Materials included. Please wear closed toe shoes and keep hair tied back. The Hot Spot GR. 10 am-noon. Register at thehotspotgr.com
August 13 & 16
Grand Rapids Public Library. Introduction to Zentangle. Come discover the wonderful benefits of the Zentangle® Drawing Method! The Zentangle Method is a fun,relaxing and easy-to-learn way of creating beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. 6:30 pm. Main Library. grpl.org.
August 13
Jazz in the Park presents Organissimo. Ah-Nab-Awen Park. 6:30-8:30 pm. wmichjazz.org
Circle Summer Concerts presents Broadway Babes. Fall in love all over again with the songs of the legendary ladies to take the Broadway stage like Ethel Merman, Bernadette Peters and Sutton Foster. Circle Theatre. 7 pm. Tickets at circletheatre.org.
Watercolor Painting. In this four-day workshop, students with some experience in watercolor will paint their own subjects and determine what kind of skills and subject matters they want to learn more about. LowellArts (223 W Main Street). 6:30 pm – 9 pm Purchase tickets ($105) at lowellartsmi.org.
August 14 & 18
Grand Rapids Public Library presents Beyond Her Grave Bicycle Tour: The Legacies of Women Buried in Fulton Street and Oakhill Cemeteries. She Rides Her Own Way and the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council will host a one-of-a-kind bicycle cemetery tour highlighting notable women of the past. 6:00 pm Tuesday, 11:00 am Saturday. Main Library. grpl.org.
August 14
Tuesday Evening Music Club presents Franklin Park and Six Pak. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Full line-up at meijergardens.org.
Encaustic Painting for Beginners. Learn the brief history of this unique painting style that uses melted and pigmented beeswax as its medium, and also learn how to create works of art using this medium and how to add other media like paper and thread. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6 pm-9 pm. Purchase tickets ($35) at lightgallerygr.com.
Photo Walk. Photo-lovers should bring a tripod, lenses and gear to this photo-walk focusing on urban environments in downtown Lowell. LowellArts (223 W Main Street). 6-9pm. Purchase tickets ($30) at lowellartsmi.org.
August 15
Botanical Screen Printing. Learn the basics of screen printing with Michelle Faser, and then screen print your own fun, contemporary plant illustrations onto different types of paper and fabric. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6 pm– 9 pm Purchase tickets ($35) at lightgallerygr.com.
Grand Rapids Public Library presents Resiliency and Perseverance: An Evening with Pastor Troy Evans. Pastor Troy Evans started out a lot like Robert Peace—a young black man growing up in the inner city. Join us for a conversation centered around resilience and perseverance and its impact on the lives of urban youth. 6:30 pm. Main Library. Grpl.org.
August 16
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Melophobix (reggae/funk). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full line-up at downtowngr.org
Punch Needle Embroidery. Learn the fundamentals of punch needle embroidery with Erika Townsley, who will leave attendees with the knowledge and supplies to do wall hangings, pillows and rugs. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6 pm– 9 pm. Purchase tickets ($45) at lightgallerygr.com.
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
Lowell Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts presents Luke Winslow-King. Riverwalk Plaza. 7-9 pm. Full line-up at discoverlowell.org.
Run GR and Gazelle Sports: Kids Adventure Challenge. 2600 Wilson Avenue Grand Rapids, MI US 49534. Youth costs: $15. Adults are Free. gazellesports.com
August 16-18
The B.O.B presents Keith Alberstadt. Whether it’s his sarcastic approach, his playful attitude, or his good old-fashioned southern charm, Keith makes his comedy relatable and approachable. He has been seen on “Late Show with David Letterman,” “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” “Last Comic Standing,” “Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update” (contributing writer), “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” (contributing writer), and “Comics Unleashed. Purchase tickets at thebob.com
Pendant Cutout Workshop. This 2+ hour course goes over how to make pendants using a coping saw. Skills learned will be how to pierce, saw, apply texture, and finishing techniques. Students are encouraged to have designs in mind and bring printouts of them on computer paper. Designs should be 1-inch or roughly pendant size. Materials included are copper and a 1-inch piece of silver. No torches will be used but general safety is required with closed toe shoes and hair tied back. The Hot Spot GR. 10 am-noon.
August 17
Movies on Monroe: Wonder Woman and The Black Panther. North Monroe Parking Lot. 6:30 pm (movies begin at 7:30 pm). downtowngr.org
Mounted Staghorn Fern. Learn about this unique plant, how to mount it and take care of it at home. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 7-8 pm. Purchase tickets ($40) at lightgallerygr.com.
August 18
Urban Gardening Workshop: Pickling & Fermenting. Learn tried and true methods of food preservation and the health benefits of eating foods from your garden during this cooking class that lets you make-and-take delicious foods. Grand Rapids Public Museum. 11 am-12:30 pm. Register at grpm.org.
The Riley Trails Marathon and Marathon Relay. All runners will start and finish on Benjamin’s Hope’s property Address: 15468 Riley St, Holland, MI 49424. (1.1 Miles away from Riley Trials.) 7:30am. Prices vary. gazellesports.com.
August 18-19
Grand Rapids Mini Maker Faire. The Grand Rapids Mini Maker Faire is a family-friendly celebration featuring rockets and robots, DIY science and technology, urban farming and sustainability, alternative energy, unique hand-made crafts, local food, and more! Grand Rapids Public Museum. grandrapids.makerfaire.com
August 19
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents Toad the Wet Sprocket & The Verve Pipe. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 6:30 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
August 20
Jazz in the Park presents Bob Nixon-GRJO. Ah-Nab-Awen Park. 6:30-8:30 pm. wmichjazz.org
Watercolor Painting. In this four-day workshop, students with some experience in watercolor will paint their own subjects and determine what kind of skills and subject matters they want to learn more about. LowellArts (223 W Main Street). 6:30 pm – 9 pm. Purchase tickets ($105) at lowellartsmi.org.
August 21
Tuesday Evening Music Club presents Watching for Foxes and Desmond Jones. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Full line-up at meijergardens.org.
Kokedama (Moss Ball). Take a crack at assembling this Japanese Bonsai plant and learn how to take care of it at home. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 7 pm-8pm. Purchase tickets ($25) at lightgallerygr.com.
Forge n’ Gorge. Once a month is a gathering of metalsmiths, makers, and anyone interested in what we do. This is an open studio with access to our tools, so come with a project or an open mind. We only ask that you bring a dish to pass or throw some cash our way (it helps us get sweet new tools in). What we do at these events are: make introductions talk about shows, art fairs, events, exhibitions, work on projects (forge) eat and network (gorge). The Hot Spot GR. 8-10:30 pm. thehotspotgr.com
Panel Talk: The Impact of Photojournalism and Contemporary Fine Art Photography on Society. Hear a panel of experts discuss fine art and photo journalism and how it’s involved in Bangladesh’s shifting social and political reform and photography’s role in 21st century activism on a global scale. The photographs referenced are from the UICA’s exhibit “Transitions: New Photography from Bangladesh.” UICA (2 Fulton Street W). 6 pm-7pm. Tickets are $5 and more information can be found at uica.org.
August 22
Free Student Heart Screenings. Students entering 9th grade to 12th-graders are invited to a free heart screening session. Mercy Health (Hackley Campus). Schedule at mercyhealth.com/studentheart.
Modern Calligraphy + Sign. Take a beginner’s workshop in the basics calligraphy. Optional: Stay an hour later and create a reusable sign to take home. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6 pm-8 pm. August 22. Purchase tickets ($35) at lightgallerygr.com.
97LAV Summertime Blues Concert Series: Nick Moss. DeltaPlex. 6 pm. deltaplex.com
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents Trombone Shorty’s Voodoo Threauxdown. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 6 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
Join Grand Rapids Public Library for Protecting and Restoring the Great Lakes. Emily Finnell, Chief Strategist of the Michigan Office of the Great Lakes, will share past and ongoing efforts to protect and restore our Great Lakes. 7:00 pm. Main Library. Grpl.org.
August 23
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents Last Gasp Collective (funk/hip hop). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full line-up at downtowngr.org
Landscape Painting. Learn how to draw stunning landscapes during this outdoor drawing class led by one of Blandford’s creative staff members. Blandford Nature Center. 6-7:30 pm. Register at blandfordnaturecenter.org.
Lowell Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts presents May Erlewine and The Motivations. Riverwalk Plaza. 7-9 pm. Full line-up at discoverlowell.org.
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents Alabama fundraising show. Proceeds from ticket sales for tonight’s performance benefit the Welcoming the World campaign. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
Happy Cat Cafe invites you to join the Pieology Fundraiser for Carol’s Ferals.You can eat in or take out (you can order online) Anytime between 4pm and 8pm, stop in and try some great pizza or salads. happycatcompany.com.
Wall Tapestry Weaving. Using a loom, needle, yarn and wool, learn how to weave your own tapestry and complete a wall hanging to take home. Light Gallery + Studio. 6 pm- 9pm. Purchase tickets ($35) at lightgallerygr.com.
August 23-25
The B.O.B presents Nikki Glaser. Nikki Glaser is one of the most sought after young comedians and actors in the comedy world today. She was recently seen as the creator, executive producer, and star of the popular Comedy Central series “Not Safe w/ Nikki Glaser.” She has also made memorable appearances on Comedy Central’s “@midnight with Chris Hardwick,” “Inside Amy Schumer,” and has had multiple appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” Purchase tickets at thebob.com.
August 24
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents TOTO. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
August 25
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.
Portrait Photography. Matthew Provoast will teach a hands-on workshop to those with DSLR and mirrorless cameras on how to shoot compelling portrait photography. Light Gallery + Studio. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. August 25. Purchase tickets ($60) at lightgallerygr.com.
August 26
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents O.A.R. with Matt Nathanson. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 6:30 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
Ring Stack Workshop. Learn how to form wire and solder with an acetylene torch in this fun workshop! Copper and silver wire is included. Course is 2+ hours long and will also cover hammering and finishing techniques. Student will have five rings (or more) by the end of the class! The Hot Spot GR. 10am-12pm. thehotspotgr.com
August 27
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents Lyle Lovett and his Large Band. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
Watercolor Painting. In this four-day workshop, students with some experience in watercolor will paint their own subjects and determine what kind of skills and subject matters they want to learn more about. LowellArts (223 W Main Street). 6:30 pm-9pm. Purchase tickets ($105) at lowellartsmi.org.
August 28
Tuesday Evening Music Club presents Ralston & Friends. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Full line-up at meijergardens.org.
Encaustic Painting for Beginners. Learn the brief history of this unique painting style that uses melted and pigmented beeswax as its medium, and also learn how to create works of art using this medium and how to add other media like paper and thread. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6 pm- 9pm. August 28. Purchase tickets ($35) at lightgallerygr.com.
Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary – Scoopsgiving. This is our second year hosting our favorite non-profits for Scoopsgiving. Stop in and help us give back. 20% of all sales on this day will be donated to Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Furniture City Creamery. noon-10 pm. uptowngr.com.
August 29
Ceramic Spoon and Pinch Bowl. Join Eliza Fernand in creating your own spoons and pinch bowls out of clay. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 7 pm-8:30 pm. Purchase tickets ($45) at lightgallerygr.com.
August 30
Relax at Rosa lunchtime concerts presents AfroZuma (afro-beat/world). Rosa Parks Circle. Noon-1:30 pm. Full line-up at downtowngr.org
Punch Needle Embroidery. Learn the fundamentals of punch needle embroidery with Erika Townsley, who will leave attendees with the knowledge and supplies to do wall hangings, pillows and rugs. Light Gallery + Studio (317 Division Avenue South). 6 pm-9pm. Purchase tickets ($45) at lightgallerygr.com.
Summer Concerts at the Gardens presents Lake Street Dive. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. 7 pm. Tickets at meijergardens.org.
August 30-September 1
The B.O.B presents Aj Finney. AJ’s organic approach is refreshing and his poetic stream of consciousness style makes for a colorful and unforgettable comedic experience. In 2014 AJ was crowned “Best of the Midwest” winner at Gilda’s LaughFest in Grand Rapids, was featured on the FOX television show Laughs, and was one of the 100 performers chosen for Season 8 of NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.” Purchase tickets at thebob.com.