Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Organizers held races and walks on Saturday morning to raise money for Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, which cares for 128 veterans.

The event began at 8 a.m. with a national anthem by Army veteran Danielle Engle and included a five-mile run (8:30 a.m.), a 5K, and a half-mile remembrance walk held under the MVH cemetery arches on Monroe Avenue NE, with a pancake breakfast sponsored by SpartanNash for participants.

On Nov 8, 2025, the American Legion Boat and Canoe Club hosted an event that honored veterans with breakfast, live music, and an appreciation dinner — the program included portraits of 11 fallen Kent County soldiers and remarks by former county commissioner Tom Antor.

The Veteran's Day 5K walk, run & roll event in Grand Rapids had a chilly start on November 8 as participants gathered to honor veterans.

Feeding America West Michigan said that cuts to SNAP benefits and a government shutdown have increased the need for food help by 75% as residents dropped off donations on Saturday.

The group will assemble 25-pound emergency boxes to distribute food starting Monday — staff warn that their 1 million-pound supply may only last two weeks.

A food drive was held in Kentwood to bridge the SNAP gap—local organizers said the event comes as food bank demand in West Michigan increased 70% since 2021 due to inflation and stagnant wages.

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum has the restored bell from the Edmund Fitzgerald—cleaned at Michigan State University—and it will be used in two ceremonies on November 10 to honor the 29 sailors and all Great Lakes victims.

A public ceremony will use the bell while a family livestream event will begin at 7 p.m. as part of the 50th anniversary remembrance.

Food bank demand in West Michigan increased by 70% since 2021 due to inflation and stagnant wages, according to Feeding America West Michigan—whose CEO noted that many working families struggle to cover basic expenses despite having employed members.

Many with multiple jobs are finding it hard to manage costs for emergencies and everyday needs.

Darrius Barnes, a 38-year-old former professional soccer player with leadership experience at Crown Legacy FC in Charlotte, was named president of AC Grand Rapids—Major League Soccer announced the appointment on Saturday.

Barnes said he looks forward to growing the sport locally, and owner David Van Andel expects he will make a strong impact on and off the field.

Hudsonville Unity Christian won its first district title in four seasons by outscoring Spring Lake 22-6 in the fourth quarter to finish 34-19 at Grandville High School on November 7—where senior quarterback Justin Febus made two key plays that fueled the surge.

Gabby's Dollhouse Live

5-7:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience an a-MEOW-zing musical adventure as Gabby and friends search for colors to rebuild the rainbow.

MIB International Networking Event in Grand Rapids

6-8 p.m. — The Times of Our Lives — Free entry — Connect with inspiring women entrepreneurs while enjoying a supportive networking environment.

The Brokes Tribute to The Strokes

8-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Ticketed event — Experience a stellar tribute to one of rock's most iconic bands with energy and precision.

Lotus Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience Lotus’s blend of electronic dance music and improvisation in an electrifying live show.

YDG Live Performance

9-10:30 p.m. — Elevation — Tickets available — Experience the versatile sounds of YDG as he rises in the underground bass community with electrifying performances.

Grand Rapids Gold vs. Motor City Cruise

7-8:30 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — $20+ — Enjoy an exciting matchup as local favorites Grand Rapids Gold take on Motor City Cruise in an evening of professional basketball.

Anne Wilson Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience inspiring music from rising Christian artist Anne Wilson in an intimate venue.

West Michigan Lutheran Science Day

9:30 AM – 1:35 PM — West Michigan Lutheran High School — Registration required — Engage in hands-on water-based science experiments for students in grades 5–8.

QuickBooks Online Training

1-5 p.m. — Grand Rapids Office — Cost not listed — Level up your accounting skills with hands-on training in QuickBooks Online.

Christkindl Markt 2025

8-9 p.m. — Grand Rapids Downtown Market — Free entry — Experience the magic of a traditional European Christmas village with artisan vendors and holiday cheer.