Good morning, Grand Rapids.

A viral Facebook post showed drivers are illegally cutting through business parking lots on Plainfield Avenue to bypass construction traffic, putting workers and customers at risk and prompting complaints from local business managers — the illegal shortcuts endanger lives and hurt businesses.

The Brickworld LEGO Exposition returns to the DeVos Place Convention Center today and through September 28 for its third year, featuring interactive exhibits—such as a buildable Interactive City and LEGO play areas—that draw thousands of fans.

Condado Tacos honored Kailand 'Kai' Burri on Sept.

25 by unveiling a mural at its downtown Bridge Street location (designed by local artist Elliot Chaltry). The celebration raised funds for West Michigan Therapy Dogs (a cause important to Kai’s family) and remembered his passion for art and tacos.

Puerto Rican artist Luis Fernandez reconnects with his roots through his photo series La Voz de mi Gente that shows local artists working in dance, music, tattoos and art.

His work is on display outside the Grand Rapids Art Museum and features a GRCC welding project + an effort to open new opportunities for the community.

The Christkindl Markt at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market is gearing up for Nov 19-Dec 23 by confirming over 60 vendors who will offer traditional foods and handcrafted gifts, including a new white wine Glühwein and spiced German egg punch.

The event also will feature cozy Alpenglobe rentals and curling competitions—designed to highlight a festive European-style holiday season.

London-based artist Elizabeth Eade flew into Detroit to show her work at ArtPrize 2025 in Grand Rapids—her piece No Ordinary Love is a skeleton made of jewelry from 1,000 women that tells their stories.

She said her shipping adventure using her old luggage was anxiety-inducing and she plans to return in the future.

Tourism is rising in Grand Rapids as visitors from across Michigan joined the ArtPrize Halfway celebration—where food trucks, art tents, and live music enhanced the event's energy.

Experience Grand Rapids data shows spending increased 6% and visitor numbers grew by over 4% from last year—bolstering local businesses.

Grand Rapids Public Schools completed a $5.1 million renovation of 102-year-old Houseman Stadium—adding a modern turf field with GRPS and partner logos, a new blue and grey track, upgraded facilities, and LED lights that reduce glare for nearby residents, all funded by a voter-approved bond passed in 2023.

Leaders celebrated on Friday the opening of Grand Rapids’ first new fire station in nearly 40 years at the 12,600-square-foot Kendall Street Fire Station on the corner of Kendall Street and Kalamazoo Avenue in the Third Ward.

Funded by an $8.1 million state grant—officials expect the station to cut fire response times in the area.

State leaders reached an agreement late yesterday that will let a new budget be voted on before the new-fiscal-year begins October 1.

The deal gives $2 billion for roads, adds a tax on marijuana, and eliminates taxes on tips and overtime, with legislators saying it will help avoid a government shutdown.

On Friday night, West Michigan high school football games saw strong wins such as Zeeland West beating Zeeland East 38—14 and Grand Rapids Christian defeating Forest Hills Eastern 44—20 as teams passed the season’s halfway point.

13 On Your Sidelines covered the highlights to keep fans up to date on the 2025 season.

Starcrawler Live in Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket prices vary — Experience the explosive energy of Starcrawler's live rock performance with their electrifying frontwoman and talented band.

Lecrae Live in Concert

7-9 p.m. — Elevation — Ticket prices vary — Experience Lecrae's unique blend of faith and hip-hop as he performs from his latest project, Church Clothes 4.

Rock of Ages Musical Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Grand Rapids Civic Theatre And School Of Theatre Arts — VIP tickets available — Experience the electric atmosphere of the iconic Rock of Ages musical featuring classic rock hits.

Ben Folds with Grand Rapids Symphony

7:30-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket info TBA — Experience the influential sounds of Ben Folds in a grand orchestral setting.

Rock of Ages Musical Performance

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Grand Rapids Civic Theatre And School Of Theatre Arts — VIP tickets available — Experience the classic rock musical with premium seating and hospitality options.

Gordon Food Service Food Show 2025

Oct 7-8 — DeVos Place — Free entry — Explore a wide range of chicken products at the Gordon Food Service Show.

White Reaper Live Performance

6:30-8 p.m. — The Pyramid Scheme — Ticket prices vary — Experience the high-energy sound of White Reaper, blending glam and grit for an unforgettable night of music.

Rooftop Gas and Electric Training Class

9 AM - 12 PM — Young Supply Company - South Grand Rapids — Cost not specified — Dive into the intricacies of DDC and non-DDC control systems under expert guidance.

Stand Atlantic Concert

6-10 p.m. — GLC Live at 20 Monroe — All ages welcome — Experience the energy of Stand Atlantic live in Grand Rapids.

Brandon Lake - King of Hearts Tour

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Van Andel Arena — Tickets from $94 — Experience an inspiring evening of worship and music with Brandon Lake.