Good morning, Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids held its 2025 Santa Parade and tree lighting on Saturday night at Rosa Parks Circle as thousands gathered to enjoy free treats, crafts, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The event featured live music and a snow globe—boosting the festive spirit in the community.

Mel Trotter Ministries reached its Turkey Drop goal by collecting nearly 6000 turkeys that will be given to West Michigan families in need this Thanksgiving—Feeding America West Michigan volunteers will distribute them and The Rapid will provide free rides for a free meal at DeVos Place for over 2000 guests. Rising housing costs have forced more residents to live paycheck to paycheck, which has made housing insecurity a main reason many are seeking emergency assistance.

ReLeaf Michigan submitted 16 big tree entries from its Michigan Big Tree Hunt to the state program for champion status.

The entries include trees from counties such as Calhoun + Kent and Isabella + Leelanau and were measured by girth to show if they can be new state champions.

During the War of 1812, Edward Tiffin, Ohio’s first governor, said Michigan land was too swampy to farm—which made Congress move lands meant for soldiers to Missouri and slow Michigan’s growth.

Later, Michigan leader Lewis Cass disputed the report, adding to the long rivalry with Ohio.

Firefighters from the Walker Fire Department completed specialized training using toy vehicles — a method to practice proper positioning at crash scenes on busy highways.

The session, led by an experienced fire chief, gave both new and veteran responders critical preparation to handle roadway emergencies.

Ryder Pankey, a 9-year-old mountain biker from Zeeland, completed a 32-mile race in 2 hours and 49 minutes—becoming the youngest racer in this year’s Iceman Cometh Challenge.

He trained three times a week with his family and will next compete in the Michigan Scholastic Cycling Association series.

Ogemaw Heights and Grand Rapids West Catholic played a Division 5 state semifinal game on November 22 in Clare—West Catholic won 34-24.

They will play in the finals at Ford Field on November 30.

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.

Straight No Chaser Holiday Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets vary — Enjoy a festive evening filled with holiday cheer from the renowned a cappella group Straight No Chaser.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

6:30-7:29 p.m. — Wealthy Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a magical candlelight concert featuring the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons performed by the KalHaven String Quartet.

Los Tigres del Norte Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Tickets on sale — Experience the legendary Los Tigres del Norte live in a musical journey through their classics and new hits.

A Magical Cirque Christmas

7:30-9 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience breathtaking variety acts and holiday magic for the whole family.

Sips & Succulents Cocktail Class

6-8 p.m. — New Holland Brewing - Grand Rapids Brewpub — Ticket required — Craft cocktails while designing your own succulent arrangement for home.

In The Christmas Mood With The Glenn Miller Orchestra

7-8:30 p.m. — DeVos Performance Hall — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the holiday season with timeless classics performed by the legendary Glenn Miller Orchestra.

Donna The Buffalo Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Stache — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant lifestyle of Donna The Buffalo and their roots rock sound.

Maddy O'Neal Live

8:00 – 10:30 PM — Elevation — Ticket info not provided — Experience a night of genre-blending electro-soul and bass music with Maddy O'Neal.