Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Peppinos in downtown Grand Rapids is preparing for larger Fourth of July weekend crowds by training bartenders to spot early signs of intoxication & offering water and snacks to help prevent impaired driving.

The safety measure builds on increased summer patronage and aims to keep holiday celebrations secure.

Michigan’s first-ever Latvian Song and Dance Festival launched on July 2 with a parade along the Grand River near Rosa Parks Circle and will continue through July 5.

The free event gathers local and international groups to celebrate Latvian music, dance and cultural traditions.

At Calder Plaza in Grand Rapids, the 5th annual Foodie Fest features 40+ local food trucks and vendors — including Korean corn dogs — and live music.

The free event began Friday, July 3 and runs today from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

Today, local families preparing Fourth of July cookouts can expect an average meal cost of $73.82 for 10, about 4% higher than last year; ALDI offers lower prices at $55.40 while stores like Meijer charge more + rising fuel costs add to the expense.

A Zeeland West senior, Kellen Vaughan, became a top 12 finalist in USA TODAY’s Fly Your Flag contest for his design The Starry Goose.

His entry, which celebrates American unity and history, reflects his early interest in flags and a goal to redesign Michigan’s state flag.

Experts urge residents to enjoy today’s Fourth of July safely by hiring professional fireworks displays or by following strict safety guidelines for sparklers (which can burn over 1200°F) and grills, ensuring gas tanks are checked and hot coals are disposed of in metal buckets.

Lake St. Clair was named 5th on Bassmaster's list of the 10 best bass lakes, reflecting Michigan's strong reputation for bass fishing this season.

The ranking was released Wednesday and underscores the lake's appeal to local anglers.

Jenison Wildcats will launch their first girls varsity high school hockey team (a first for local female athletes) soon; the program with no cuts supported by Jenison Public Schools welcomes players from Ottawa and Kent counties and offers all skill levels a chance to compete.

Unofficial Jack Johnson Pre-Party

4-7:30 p.m. — The Intersection — $4 drafts and wells — Enjoy music, food, and games before the Amp shows.

Dave Matthews Band Summer Tour

7:30-10:30 PM — Acrisure Amphitheater — Tickets on sale Feb 20th — Experience two nights of electrifying performances from Dave Matthews Band.

Unofficial Dave Matthews Band Pre-Party

4-7 p.m. — The Intersection — $4 drafts and wells — Enjoy food trucks and good vibes before the show kicks off.

Speak Up Conference 2026

July 9-11 — Prince Conference Center and Hotel — Registration required — A premier event for Christian writers to learn, network, and share their messages.

HOME @ THE BOB

Evening time — The B.O.B. — Check event details for cost — Experience the infectious grooves of DaFunk Gang, a dynamic hip-hop, funk, and soul cover band from Grand Rapids.

Cozy Worldwide

9:00 – 10:30 PM — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — Ages 21+ — Enjoy an exciting night filled with cozy vibes and live performances.

Science on the Grand: A STEAM Conference for K-8 Inquiry-Based Educators

Teaching isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. That’s why we’ve crafted one amazing STEAM conference, filled with practical, teacher-tested ideas that will fuel your teaching fire. Experience NGSS-aligned sessions focused on cutting-edge, inquiry-driven, and classroom-ready strategies.

Science on the Grand: A STEAM Conference for K-8 Inquiry-Based Educators

Teaching isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. That’s why we’ve crafted one amazing STEAM conference, filled with practical, teacher-tested ideas that will fuel your teaching fire. Experience NGSS-aligned sessions focused on cutting-edge, inquiry-driven, and classroom-ready strategies.

Derek Hough Live Performance

8:00 – 11:00 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets from $85 — Enjoy a thrilling evening of dance and entertainment with Derek Hough.

Shakey Graves Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Meijer Gardens — Tickets from $67 — Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Shakey Graves at this beautiful outdoor venue.

Upheaval Festival 2026

13:00-21:00 — Belknap Park — $29.79 – $2,979.00 — Experience an epic two-day rock festival featuring top artists in Grand Rapids.