Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Grand Rapids? Look no further! Here are some fantastic events happening around town that you won’t want to miss!

Sports
On the sports front the weekend promises multiple opportunities enjoy what’s been historically touted as America’s favorite pastime. On Friday, April 12, at 6:35 pm, head over to LMCU Ballpark to catch the Whitecaps take on the River Bandits. It’s National Grilled Cheese Day, so be sure to indulge in $1 Grilled Cheeses and $1 tomato soup during the game. Don’t forget to grab your $2 Reserved Ticket and enjoy the game! Plus, all fans in attendance will receive a coupon for free Cosmik Fries at HopCat.

**Kids cheer on the West Michigan Whitecaps at Lake Michigan Credit Union Stadium. Courtesy photo.**

On Saturday, April 13, at 2 p.m, the Whitecaps will face off against the River Bandits again for a double header. Kids’ tickets are just $2, so bring the whole family for a day of fun! Tickets are available here.

And…there’s still time to catch a Griffins game this season. Join the excitement at Van Andel Arena on Friday April 12 as the Grand Rapids Griffins take on the Rockford Ice Hogs. Enjoy $2 beers and hot dogs. Purchase tickets here.

Symphony and Chorus

**Dr. Pearl Shangkuan at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan on Thursday August 3, 2023. Photo by Alfield Reeves.**

Don’t miss the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus Celebration featuring the vocal talents of soprano Talise Trevigne and tenor Brian Giebler on April 12 & 13 at DeVos Performance Hall at 7 p.m. Experience the power of this one-of-a-kind musical experience as Marcelo Lehninger and Pearl Shangkuan lead in Brahms’ Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) and Dan Forrest’s Requiem for the Living. Get tickets here.

Eat, Drink & Be Merry

If you’re a wine enthusiast, take in this wine tasting event on Saturday, April 13, from 6 – 9 p.m. The annual “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” fundraiser and wine tasting benefits the historic St. Cecilia Music Center and its concert series.Tickets are $65 and include tastings from over 100 different wines, delicious food from Martha’s Vineyard Catering, and live music. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to support a good cause and have a fantastic time! The event takes place at SCMC, 24 Ransom Ave NE. Tickets can be purchased at scmcgr.org, or by calling St. Cecilia Music Center during business hours at 616-459-2224.

**Grand Rapids Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo. Courtesy photo.**

Lantern Festival
For a truly unique experience, embark on a one-mile journey through the magic of the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo— a truly breathtaking experience for all ages that you won’t find anywhere else in Michigan! Immerse yourself in the illuminating world of handcrafted Asian lantern displays depicting animals, plants, insects, and a dragon tunnel, exclusive to John Ball Zoo. With timed entry tickets available online, it’s your chance to embark on a one-of-a-kind journey through the zoo and create unforgettable memories with family and friends! For more information about times and to reserve your tickets, click here.

With so much happening this weekend in Grand Rapids, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on these exciting events!