Good Day
Grand Rapids
Saturday, May 16th, 2026
Good morning, Grand Rapids. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 16th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The new Acrisure Amphitheater hosted its first concert Friday, May 15, and roads were closed near the venue — closures started two hours before doors opened to manage access. FOX 17
- ➤ After a year of review, John Ball Zoo announced on Thursday it would not pursue an aquarium at the former Fenske Landfill (near Wilson Ave SW and Butterworth St SW) due to environmental contamination and infrastructure challenges; the zoo is now exploring other Kent County sites. MLive
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Founders Brewing is opening an outdoor satellite bar and hiring 32 workers ahead of Acrisure Amphitheater’s concert season this summer. The taproom, a two-minute walk away, will offer an express service — a new option expected to meet rising demand on busy nights. FOX 17
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Members of the GVSU Symphony Orchestra recorded the Acrisure Amphitheater's official theme song for use during concerts and events at the venue. The two-day recording session in January highlighted local college talent and the investment in community culture. FOX 17
- ➤ Local leaders and Lionel Richie cut the ribbon on Acrisure Amphitheater, a $184 million downtown venue, on Friday, May 15. A free grand opening celebration runs today from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Tickets are available on the venue's website.) FOX 17
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Michigan and several states challenge a federal order requiring Consumers Energy to keep its aging J.H. Campbell coal plant online in Ottawa County, arguing it oversteps state planning and may burden ratepayers with $42 million. Federal judges questioned the order as the extension (expiring Monday, May 18) is under review. MLive
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Ink Society Tattoo Collective (Jenison) offers a safe space during Mental Health Awareness Month by using art and conversation to help those facing addiction, grief, and mental health struggles; owner Noize Pierce shares his own journey to support community healing (a healing initiative). FOX 17
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Spring Lake has named Lance Johnson as its new head coach for boys basketball and he will also join as a physical education teacher. The former state champion brings proven winning experience from Rockford and Reeths-Puffer (where he led to strong seasons) as he returns home to continue the Lakers' legacy. MLive
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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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Big Boi with Chip tha Ripper
6:30-8:00 p.m. — Acrisure Amphitheater — $1 donation per ticket to The Big Bro Foundation — Enjoy a night of hip-hop while supporting youth empowerment initiatives.
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Prairie Drone Companion Album Release
7-11 p.m. — Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill — Entry TBA — Discover the sounds of local music veterans launching their debut album.
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Cody Johnson Concert
7-9 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of live music with country sensation Cody Johnson.
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Comedy Bang! Bang!
8-11 p.m. — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with top comedians and great entertainment.
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The Rare Occasions Live Concert
6:30-10:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket prices vary — Experience explosive garage rock anthems with LA-based indie band The Rare Occasions.
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Dan Rickabus Album Release Event
7-10:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Tickets start at $74 — Experience a memorable evening with live music from Dan Rickabus in Grand Rapids.
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