Good morning, Grand Rapids.

The West Michigan Women’s Expo runs from today to March 8 (at DeVos Place) featuring local vendors, food, and interactive exhibits, while the Grand Rapids St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on March 14 at 11:00 a.m. (starting near the public library) in downtown.

Staff at Biggby Coffee in McKay Tower said the café will close permanently on March 8 after being informed last week.

The abrupt announcement left the nine-member team and regulars upset (corporate provided no further details).

On March 5, Microsoft hosted an open house at The Fairway Event and Banquet Center in Lowell to share early plans for its proposed data center at Covenant Business Park in Lowell Township — residents voiced concerns over water use and job prospects while company representatives assured that customer costs would remain unchanged.

VEG ER for Pets will open a 24-hour emergency vet clinic at 3324 28th St. SE in Kentwood on March 19—a ribbon cutting is set for 11:30 a.m. as the company expands its Michigan services.

Six Flags is selling seven parks, including Michigan's Adventure in Grand Rapids, to EPR Properties for $331 million — the parks will keep the Six Flags branding until the end of 2026 while the sale is finalized by the end of March.

Global tensions affecting oil shipments have helped push gasoline to about $3.28 per gallon in Grand Rapids while diesel prices jumped 19%+, with experts saying seasonal shifts may keep costs rising through spring.

Kent County Treasurer Peter MacGregor is authorized to borrow up to $30 million to cover overdue property taxes, with delinquent accounts expected to reach about 23 to 24 million this year.

MacGregor and local partners offer homeowners payment plans + deferrals to help keep them in their homes.

Vetr Health is partnering with Tyson’s Place Animal Rescue to offer free in-home veterinary care for seniors in Grand Rapids; a recent donation covers the full cost of visits and eases transportation and expense barriers.

Commonwealth Senior Living in Kentwood offers a virtual dementia simulator that lets families, staff and community members experience everyday challenges of dementia and Alzheimer’s by using special equipment to simulate tasks like filling a pill bottle, building empathy for those facing memory loss.

Kent City beat North Muskegon (50-39) and Ravenna beat Western Michigan Christian (45-30) in the district semifinals on March 4 at Kent City High School; the winners will face each other today at 7 p.m. in the district final.

Gimme Gimme Disco

8-11 p.m. — The Stache — Not specified — Dance the night away to ABBA and classic disco hits for an unforgettable party experience.

Dancing With The Stars Tour

7-10 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets available online — Experience the excitement and glitz of Hollywood's favorite dance show live on stage.

Ultimate Sport Show 2026

1 PM-5 PM — DeVos Place — Varies by exhibitor — Experience the excitement of the 81st Annual Ultimate Sport Show with over 300 exhibitors showcasing the latest outdoor gear and adventures.

& Juliet Performance

& Juliet — 7:30-10:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Starting at $44 — Experience a vibrant musical reimagining of Shakespeare's classic tale.

EKHS All Class Reunion Bash

5:30-8:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Tickets start at $64 — Celebrate with music from multiple local bands at this class reunion event.

Grand Rapids Gold Free Ticket Event

7-9 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Free tickets for DSAWM members — Catch the Grand Rapids Gold live in action with a special ticket giveaway!

Rick Steves' Europe: A Symphonic Journey

7:30-10:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets start at $45 — Experience an enchanting musical exploration of Europe with Rick Steves.

Branford Marsalis Quartet Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — St. Cecilia Music Center — Ticket information available — Experience the profound talent of Branford Marsalis, a jazz luminary renowned for his dynamic performances and rich musical heritage.

Mega 80's vs. Class of 98 Showdown

9 PM — Elevation at The Intersection — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying night of music as the 80s and 90s battle it out on the dance floor.

Secondhand Serenade Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartfelt music of Secondhand Serenade in the intimate setting of a local venue.