Good morning, Grand Rapids.

West Michigan has a busy weekend with events including Grand Rapids Comic Con featuring guest speakers and cosplay contests, Cranksgiving at Grand Rapids Bicycle Company where riders donate food for Meals on Wheels, and a Friday Griffins game (puck drops at 7 p.m.) with Military Appreciation Night and discounted food; other highlights are a Christmas Light Show 5K at LMCU Ballpark and a 33rd-year Christmas Through Lowell holiday market showcasing over 350 vendors.

Actor Malcolm McDowell canceled his appearance at Grand Rapids Comic Con scheduled for today due to flight delays (caused by the government shutdown), and actress Amy Jo Johnson withdrew after a family loss (with Austin St. John set to replace her) as the event continues with other guests.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development confirmed three new outbreaks of bird flu in commercial flocks in Ottawa County today—bringing the total to eight since early October.

The department urges waterfowl hunters to use gloves, wash hands, and disinfect equipment to help stop the virus from spreading.

GVSU athletic director Keri Becker and head softball coach Dana Callihan both battled breast cancer and now urge women to get regular mammograms and self-checks.

They shared their personal stories to show that support can make a difference — no one fights alone.

Plainfield Avenue is rebuilt but changes continue—one vacant lot at Plainfield and 5 Mile will host a Habitat for Humanity mixed-use project with ground breaking planned in 2027, while the Coit Flats project at Plainfield and Coit is under construction with 72 apartments expected to be completed in December. The township is moving forward with these new housing plans.

Kent County approved its first brownfield redevelopment plan to support a $2.8 million affordable housing project by Flat River Outreach Ministries on a vacant parcel at 504 E.

Main St. The plan will fund 17 rental units and recover $750,000 in costs from local and state tax increment revenues over 15 years — extra tax capture will back a local brownfield revolving fund for future projects.

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.

Charlotte Checkers vs Grand Rapids Griffins

7-8:30 p.m. — Van Andel Arena — Watch the action live on FloHockey as two top teams face off on the ice.

Made Market - Grand Rapids Holiday Market

10 AM - 5 PM — Goei Center — Free entry — Explore 60+ local makers and their unique, handmade goods this holiday season.

Postmodern Jukebox: Magic, Moonlight & Mistletoe Tour

8-9:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of vintage musical magic with genre-twisting covers and holiday classics.

TVBOO Live Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Intersection — Ticket prices vary — Experience electrifying bass music and high-energy performances from rising star TVBOO.

GR Turkey Trot 2025

8:10 a.m. — Van Andel Arena — Registration fee required — Celebrate fitness and community spirit with the 33rd Annual Grand Rapids Turkey Trot 5K run/walk.