Good morning, Grand Rapids.

The free Chilly Blues & Brews Festival will take place Saturday, March 22 at The B.O.B. in downtown Grand Rapids, where community members will sample over 35 chilis at a tasting that starts at noon and watch more than 40 teams compete for the 'Lord of the Ladle' award, which includes a $1,000 cash prize and a trophy. Live blues music will fill multiple floors, and a hot pepper eating contest will begin at 3 p.m.

A 19-year-old pedestrian, an Ottawa County resident, was struck while crossing Lake Michigan Drive NW near Ferndale Avenue on March 17 by a 16-year-old driver, and the injured person was hospitalized, police said.

The beloved bar on Grand Rapids’ west side closed on Feb 28 and reopened on Mar 1 as an event venue—shifting from a neighborhood spot for comfort food and drinks to a space hosting St. Patrick’s Day weekend parties.

Owner Mariel Rewa thanked the community for its support and said the venue will host future events.

Grand Rapids police arrested a motorcyclist after he fled a traffic stop on March 14—he went off-road, crashed into a car, and ran on foot into a wooded area as a state police helicopter tracked his movements.

John Ball Zoo will open its doors for the season on March 21 with new animals and events such as a pair of lions and warthogs and community festivals — its 134th season will feature the Lantern Festival, Wildlife Exploration Days, and a 5K race.

The zoo will keep its regular admission prices and add extra experiences including a July exhibit on pollinators.

Tudor Dixon said on Tuesday that she is considering a run for governor or the U.S. Senate—citing Governor Whitmer for driving Michigan into the bottom 10 nationally.

She said she will reach out to Michigan leaders to review the state's future and back policies that bring jobs home and cut costs.

Twin sisters Jana and Lara Baatenburg—trained in West Michigan—opened a membership-based primary care practice in Grand Rapids last summer.

The practice requires a membership fee for unlimited, 24/7 access and longer appointments—allowing text, phone or video contact.

The Hart Pirates won their fourth straight West Michigan Conference Rivers Division title and finished a perfect 12-0 league season before capturing a Division 3 district title and falling to Sanford Meridian in the regional semifinals—senior Addison Hovey led among the season's top performers—and the All-West Michigan Conference team honored players from Shelby, Ravenna, and Mason County Central.

The Fremont girls basketball team finished a perfect 12-0 season in the West Michigan Conference Lakes Division and won a second consecutive District 2 championship while reaching the regional championship game for the first time since 1978 (their undefeated streak marks a historic achievement). Ludington and Montague also posted strong records (10-2 and 8-4) as the conference named top performers on its first team and honorable mention lists.

Willy Tea Taylor Concert

Willy Tea Taylor will perform live at the Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill in Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids Symphony Conducted by Marcelo Lehninger Performing Mahler & Eight Timpani

The Grand Rapids Symphony will perform Mahler's compositions featuring eight timpani, conducted by Marcelo Lehninger, at DeVos Performance Hall.

Folias Duo Performance

Folias Duo will perform at St. Cecilia Music Center, showcasing a unique musical experience for attendees.

Grand Rapids Ballet Presents Jumpstart 2025

The event features Grand Rapids Ballet dancers premiering new choreographic works, showcasing their talent and creativity in a popular audience favorite.

Grand Rapids Griffins vs. Texas Stars

7-11 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Cost varies — Catch the Griffins in their 2024-25 AHL season matchup against the Texas Stars and enjoy a night of hockey excitement.

MIB International Networking Event in Grand Rapids

9-11 p.m. — 317 Coffee — Free entry — Empower and connect with like-minded women at a supportive networking meeting featuring guest speakers and business growth opportunities.

Columbus Fury at Grand Rapids Rise

7-11 p.m. | Van Andel Arena | Ticket prices vary | Experience thrilling soccer action as the Columbus Fury takes on the Grand Rapids Rise.

The Bad Bunny Party

9:00 PM — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticketed event — Celebrate the vibrant music of Bad Bunny at a lively party atmosphere.

John R. Miller Concert

7-10 p.m. | Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill | Ticket prices vary | Enjoy an evening of live music with John R. Miller's soulful tunes.

Jeffrey Lewis Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Buy tickets online — Experience an exciting night with Jeffrey Lewis and opening acts Voltage, Grasping Straws, and SHRiNK.