Latest Events in Grand Rapids (Continuously Updated)

The Wooden Leg Murder - Storytime with Author Julie Rathsack Just in time for Spooky Season!! Come join us for a thrilling evening as author Julie Rathsack takes us through the twists and turns of the Grand Rapids ghost story, 'The Wooden Leg Murder.' Grab a seat at the Wealthy & Sheldon Apartments (not haunted) for a night filled with suspense, drama, and maybe even a few surprises. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to meet the mastermind behind the story! Spend a little extra time before or after the event touring the new apartments! Information Source: Wealthy and Sheldon Apartments | eventbrite

Join Baker Book House as author Naomi Stephens comes to discuss her novel, The Burning of Rosemont Abbey. After the author talks, there will be time for author questions and book signings! About the novel: In the sleepy post-war English village of Wilbeth Green, everyone believes Paul Everly burned Rosemont Abbey, then disappeared. Only his twin sister, Louisa, is certain of his innocence. With the aid of Inspector Malcolm Sinclair, Louisa will stop at nothing to clear her brother's name and solve a murder no one else believes was committed. Information Source: Baker Book House | eventbrite

Join Baker Book House as debut author Naomi Stephens comes to discuss her first novel, The Burning of Rosemont Abbey. After the author talks, there will be time for author questions and book signings! About the novel: In the sleepy post-war English village of Wilbeth Green, everyone believes Paul Everly burned Rosemont Abbey, then disappeared. Only his twin sister, Louisa, is certain of his innocence. With the aid of Inspector Malcolm Sinclair, Louisa will stop at nothing to clear her brother's name and solve a murder no one else believes was committed. Information Source: Baker Book House | eventbrite

Join us for the Eastown Alleycat & Kids’ Bike Rodeo! Kick off the day with the Kids’ Bike Rodeo, running from 10 AM to Noon at the Calvin Church parking lot (700 Ethel Ave SE). Kids can enjoy a fun obstacle course and skill stations where they’ll practice stopping, turning, signaling, and navigating through obstacles. Plus, they can get creative at our bike decorating station, where they can add some flair to their ride before hitting the course! Afterward, gear up for the Alleycat Bicycle Scavenger Hunt around Uptown! Grab your bike, helmet, and camera, and get ready for a thrilling hunt through the city. At 11:45 AM, you’ll receive your manifest with clues, giving you 15 minutes to plan your route before the race starts at Noon. The race will run from Noon to 2 PM, and you’ll have two hours to track down all the stops. Choose your own route and ride at your pace. Whether you’re in it to win or just for the fun of it, the adventure is yours! Prizes will be awarded to the top 5 fastest riders who complete all the stops, and a prize for our last place finisher who makes it to every stop! After the hunt, meet us at Harmony Brewing (1551 Lake Drive) for an after-party and awards ceremony! A huge thank you to our sponsors: Uptown Grand Rapids Calvin Christian Reformed Church Grand Rapids Bicycle Company Johnny D's Bike Bags Velocity USA The Alleycat is open to riders aged 12 and up, with anyone under 18 required to ride with an adult. Pre-registration is required for the Alleycat Race. Registration will close two days prior to the event on October 17th. Alleycat Check-In begins at 11am in the Calvin Church Parking lot (700 Ethel Ave SE). Helmets are strongly encouraged for all participants. Traffic Riding Rules Obey Traffic Laws: Even though it’s a race, all participants must follow the traffic laws (stop at red lights, yield to pedestrians, etc.).Stay in Bike Lanes (if available): Use the designated bike lanes where they exist to stay safe and avoid disrupting vehicular traffic.Yield to Cars and Pedestrians: Be cautious when crossing streets, and always yield to cars and pedestrians. Avoid cutting through heavy traffic.Ride Predictably: Sudden lane changes or stops can cause accidents. Ride in a straight line when possible and signal your intentions.No Blocking Traffic: Keep intersections and major thoroughfares clear. Don’t block traffic, even when stopping for a checkpoint.Helmet Required: For your safety, helmets are mandatory.No Dangerous Maneuvers: Avoid weaving between cars or riding on sidewalks (unless absolutely necessary). Stick to the road and bike paths.Stay Alert at All Times: Watch for road hazards like potholes, parked cars, and doors opening unexpectedly.Respect Checkpoints: All riders must stop at designated checkpoints, get their stamps, and continue on their wayTraffic Riding Tips Be Visible: Wear bright colors or reflective gear to make sure you're seen, especially at intersections. Use front and rear lights if riding in low light.Use Hand Signals: Always signal before turning or stopping to communicate your intentions to drivers and other cyclists.Make Eye Contact with Drivers: This can help ensure that drivers see you before turning or merging into traffic.Ride with the Flow of Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as the traffic, not against it.Check for Blind Spots: Before changing lanes or making turns, check over your shoulder to ensure it's clear.Take the Lane When Necessary: In some cases, it’s safer to “take the lane” rather than ride close to the curb, especially when the lane is too narrow to share.Be Extra Cautious at Intersections: Most cycling accidents happen at intersections, so slow down and be prepared to stop even if you have the right of way.Avoid Distractions: Keep your focus on the road. Avoid using headphones or anything that can block your awareness of your surroundings.Communicate with Fellow Riders: If riding in a group, alert others to potential hazards like cars, pedestrians, or road conditions.Maintain Your Bike: Ensure your brakes, tires, and gears are in good condition before the race to avoid mechanical failures. Information Source: Eastown Community Association | eventbrite

Hipster Disco Presents: Neon Nightmare ! Get ready for the ultimate Nightmare — where 80s campy horror meets disco fever! It’s the third year of our epic Halloween dance party and it’s bigger, brighter, and spookier than ever! Come for the beats, stay for the thrills. Live DJs Live Art Live Tattoos Best Costume Contest Prizes Full Bar Featuring Scary Good Drinks. Provided by our Sponsors: Modelo and William & Grant October 26, 2024. Fourstar Theatre 8pm-1am 21+ Follow us on Instagram for updates. ---> HIPSTER.DISCO Information Source: HIPSTER DISCO | eventbrite

Join GRPL for an evening with Waubgeshig Rice who will discuss his most recent novel, Moon of the Turning Leaves. The discussion will be followed by a book signing. Waubgeshig Rice is an author and journalist from Wasauksing First Nation on Georgian Bay. His first short story collection, Midnight Sweatlodge, was inspired by his experiences growing up in an Anishinaabe community. Special thanks to the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation and Warner Norcross + Judd LLC for their support of this program. Information Source: Grand Rapids Public Library | eventbrite