Good Day
Grand Rapids
Friday, January 30th, 2026
Good morning, Grand Rapids. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 30th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Gilda’s LaughFest 2026 is seeking new and returning volunteers for its festival running from March 11 to March 15 in Grand Rapids as it marks its 16th year and the 25th anniversary of Gilda’s Club. Volunteer orientation is on Feb. 7 (9:00 to 10:00 a.m.) at Gilda’s Club with training and shift sign-up beginning right after. FOX 17
- ➤ Byron Center’s Hangar Youth Center has provided a safe space for over 400 students from 5th grade through high school for nearly three years, offering activities like basketball and video games plus a bus service (a key outreach effort) on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. FOX 17
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Michigan International Auto Show is underway at DeVos Place until Feb. 1, featuring over 30 manufacturers and a custom Aston Martin DBS built by Ringbrothers that is valued at about $2.5M. The event is presented by Michigan-based Gentex Corporation. MLive
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ Financial expert David from Mattson Financial Services explains that missing payments and a high credit utilization lower scores and advises calling lenders (if needed) for relief and keeping older cards open to boost your score. His tips offer practical steps for staying financially fit. FOX 17
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Grand Rapids Fire Department advises business and residential owners to clear doorways and a 3-foot area around hydrants during winter so emergency crews can reach them faster. Fire Marshal William Smith said removing snow and ice buildup saves precious time in emergencies. FOX 17
- ➤ East Grand Rapids public works crews are working around the clock as heavy snow continues to affect local roads and sidewalks. Todd Cupp leads a 16-member team that prioritizes main streets and schools using GPS tracking and urges residents to park in driveways to help clear fire hydrants. FOX 17
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ On Feb.6, the American Heart Association Grand Rapids Go Red for Women luncheon will support heart health with survivor stories and expert remarks at Thousand Oaks Golf Club in Grand Rapids. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for a day of community education and advocacy. ABC 13
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The Emperor and the Swan - DTE Family Concert
10 AM - 1 PM — East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center — Family-friendly event — Experience a delightful musical journey with the Grand Rapids Symphony.
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Practicing Resilience in a Complex World
6 p.m. — Postma Center at Pine Rest — Free entry — Connect with the Fuller community over conversation and heavy appetizers while learning about local mental health initiatives.
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Keith Scott Blues Concert
5:30-9:30 p.m. — Third Nature Brewing Company — Check website for entry cost — Enjoy a night of dynamic blues with Chicago's own Keith Scott, a seasoned artist with over 40 years of experience.
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Groundhog Day Marathon and Half Marathon
8 AM – 2 PM — The Meadows at Millennium Park — Registration required — Embrace winter with a race alongside Grand Rapids' own groundhog Gus.
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2026 World of Winter Festival
9 AM – 11 PM — Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. — Free entry — Experience the largest winter festival in the Midwest filled with stunning art, performances, and fun activities for everyone.
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Comedy at the Club
8:00 p.m. — Gilda's Club Grand Rapids — $25 — The Family Improv Workshop offers an evening full of laughter for all ages.
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Magic and Comedy Date Night
9:00 – 10:30 PM — AllArtWorks Viewing Studio — $25 — Experience a unique blend of magic, comedy, and poetry this Valentine’s night.
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2026 World of Winter Festival
9 AM – 11 PM — Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. — Free entry — Experience a vibrant winter wonderland with light installations, performances, and activities for all ages.
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SAS Vendor Exhibit & Trade Show 2026
12 PM – 6 PM — DeVos Place — Exhibit participation cost varies — Explore innovations in analytics and software at this vibrant industry trade show.
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Trey Kennedy - The Relatable Tour
7-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Trey Kennedy's humorous storytelling and audience interactions.
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