Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Confluence has announced its 2026 Thought Series on Sept.

17-18 at Kendall College of Art and Design, where 24 speakers will explore innovation topics including Artemis moon missions, healthcare tech, and data center strategy + early bird tickets are on sale now.

Ferris State University will begin planning a $29.5M expansion of its Victor F.

Spathelf Center for Allied Health, renovating 67,000 sqft and adding 20,000 sqft after receiving state budget support; the university will cover $7.4M of the cost and must secure construction approval in a later budget.

A Ukrainian teen who fled war to join her family in West Michigan graduated from Grand Haven High School in May and will celebrate her 17th birthday today before starting art school this fall with a $75,000 scholarship — a milestone that fuels her passion for art.

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.

Upheaval Festival Featuring Papa Roach

12-9 p.m. — Belknap Park — Saturday Pass Only — Experience a day filled with exciting performances from Papa Roach, Bilmuri, and more.

Buddy Guy Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Meijer Gardens — Tickets starting at $129 — Experience the legendary blues artist Buddy Guy live in concert.

Johnny Mullenax Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Tickets available — Experience a funky country bluegrass good time with Johnny Mullenax, a genre-bending musician from Tulsa.

Grand Rapids Symphony: Star Wars - The Empire Strikes Back In Concert

7:30-10:30 PM — Acrisure Amphitheater — Check event page for pricing — Experience the iconic score live as the classic film unfolds on the big screen.

The Format Live Concert

12-9:30 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices vary — Experience the musical rebirth of The Format as they debut new songs and celebrate their roots.

Grand Rapids Speed Dating Event for Singles in Their 40s and 50s

6-8 p.m. — O'Toole's Public House — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 potential matches in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Little Stranger Live Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energetic alt indie hip-hop duo bringing their unique sound to Grand Rapids.