Good Day
Grand Rapids
Saturday, May 9th, 2026
Good morning, Grand Rapids. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 9th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Gerda Holley, a 94-year-old WWII survivor from Rotterdam now in Holland, modeled the local Tulip Time statue and will sell her knitted sweaters at the Finding Joy Again Women’s Conference at Central Wesleyan Church on May 16 (proceeds will benefit For His Glory Ministry). FOX 17
- ➤ Sam Smalldon survived a near-fatal crash and passed his EMT course with Life EMS in Grand Rapids, working at an ambulance garage. He will soon join the national registry before starting his career as an EMT. ABC 13
- ➤ The Grand Rapids Department of Parks and Recreation resumes its free outdoor fitness classes on Monday at Lyon Square, Mulick Park and Rosa Parks Circle. Residents can join sessions like yoga, line dancing and Zumba to boost their fitness. FOX 17
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Extreme cold in January left the Japanese cherry blossoms at Fredrick Meijer Gardens with green leaves instead of pink blooms. Horticulturist Ethan Coté said the trees focused on survival and may bloom in the future as the gardens feature other blooming trees and a Chihuly art exhibition open through October. ABC 13
- ➤ Van Andel Arena marked 30 years of energizing downtown by hosting marquee acts that spurred local growth and investment; its legacy has paved the way for new projects including the Acrisure Amphitheater opening Friday, May 15. Local leaders highlight the venue (a community catalyst) for downtown transformation. ABC 13
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Calvin Christian Schools offers a Spanish Immersion program where students as young as age 3 learn subjects in Spanish to build language skills and cultural understanding. The program also lets senior students earn college credits (via a partnership with Calvin University) to support future career paths. FOX 17
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Forecasters say a super El Niño is expected to develop by fall, which may bring warmer and drier weather with less snowfall this winter. NOAA data shows a 77% chance for a moderate to very strong event, meaning local winters might feel milder with a 1-in-4 chance of peak conditions. ABC 13
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Team Michigan held a flag signing at Richard J. Lacks Cancer Center Friday night to boost organ donation ahead of the 2026 Transplant Games in Denver. Team co-manager (Joyce Jensen) encouraged residents to register as donors. ABC 13
- ➤ Aquatic leaders in East Grand Rapids stress water safety as families prepare for summer; they urge early water exposure, plus proper use of life jackets and designated water watchers to build confidence and reduce drowning risks for young children. FOX 17
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Mother's Day Gift Fair
10 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Grand Rapids Downtown Market — Free entry — Explore unique gifts from local vendors while enjoying live music and delicious food.
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Geoff Tate Live in Concert
8-11 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices vary — Experience the iconic voice of Geoff Tate as he performs classic hits from his illustrious career with Queensryche.
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2026 Service Above Self Award Dinner
5:30-9 p.m. — Goei Center — Free entry — Celebrate outstanding community service and honor the dedication of Andy DeVries.
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Schubertiade Concert by The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center
7:30-10:30 p.m. — St. Cecilia Music Center — Tickets available — Experience a delightful evening of Schubert's masterpieces performed by renowned artists.
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Plain White T's Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening with the Plain White T's in a local venue.
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Dance Gavin Dance Live Concert
5:30-7 p.m. — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — All ages welcome — Experience the dynamic sounds of Dance Gavin Dance alongside The Fall of Troy.
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High Score Comedy
8-10 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of laughs with a lineup of local West Michigan comedians at this vibrant comedy showcase.
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Candlelight Tribute to Taylor Swift
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Wealthy Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a magical candlelight concert featuring the music of Taylor Swift.
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Daveonce Washington: The Motown Get Down
9 PM – 1 AM — Billy's Lounge — Cost Info Not Provided — Enjoy a high-energy dance party with Da'Veonce & DaFunk Gang featuring modern funk beats.
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Chicago Wolves vs Grand Rapids Griffins (Round 3 - Home Game 3)
7-8 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Watch the thrilling playoff clash between the Wolves and Griffins live on FloHockey.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Have no fear of perfection - you'll never reach it.
~ Salvador Dali
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