Issuu

W E S T M I C H I G A N ’ S E N T E R TA I N M E N T G U I D E F O R 3 8 Y E A R S » J A N / F E B 2 0 2 6

FRE E!

Things to Do This Winter West Michigan’s Biggest Night for Music Returns: 26th Annual Jammies 2026 Wedding Guide | What a Wonderful World [of Winter]

REVUEWM.COM

2 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

REVUEWM.COM

4 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

WHAT 'S IN S I DE

JANUARY/FEB RUARY VOLUME 38, ISSUE 1 O N T H E C OV E R :

MUSIC

West Michigan’s Biggest Night for

GET OUT!

FEATURE

What a Wonderful World

Music Returns: 26th Annual Jammies

50 Things to Do This Winter

DINING

ARTS

Laughter and Loss Onstage at Kalamazoo Civic Theatre Arts Calendar (pg 26)

Cover Photo courtesy of Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.

Shifting Into Soup Mode

SPOTLIGHT

Revue’s 2026 Wedding Guide

ADVERTISING

!!!

Media Sales Manager | Kelli Belanger, kelli@revuewm.com

You may not be getting the BEST eNewsletter in West Michigan!

PUBLISHED BIMONTHLY BY:

Conf irm that you have great decision-

Serendipity Media LLC | 519 Ada Drive, Suite 201, Ada, MI 49301

making skill s by signing up at

(616) 458-6371 | www.serendipity-media.com

RevueWM.com/Subscribe.

FIND US ONLINE | revuewm.com | @revuewm |

| @revue.wm |

REVUEWM.COM

/// LET TE R FROM THE ED ITOR

here are t wo ways to handle winter in West Michigan: Lean in, or hibernate. W hile I’ve certainly done the latter, hunkering down for the season and tr ying to stay under the blankets as much as possible until it all blows over, this is a great way to drag the suffering out. It feels like waiting months for a pot to boil. W hen I get out there a nd ma ke the most of it, embracing a ll the things we ca n only do in winter, the time f lies by and I appreciate the vast breadth of experiences life has to offer. Play ing in t he snow, wa lk ing t hroug h serenely quiet woods, sipping hot cocoa, eating a s much soup as possible, getting friends to do just about any thing because they’re desperate for entertainment—that’s what it’s all about. In this issue, you’ll f ind 50 things to do this winter, which you can use as a sort of seasonal bucket list if you’re looking to do more in 2026. We cover specif ic events, outdoor adventures, indoor activities and just general ideas for inspiration. It’s the perfect time to tr y something new, even if it’s just checking out a restaurant or bar you’ve never been to before. W hile that’s the entrée of the mag, we also have some side dishes, including a look at where to fulf ill your soup cravings, what’s going on at World of Winter this year, a dive into The Jammies (our own local music awards/festival), and our annual Wedding Guide! Finally, I’ll just say, as we continue to see beloved local businesses close for various reasons (R IP General Wood Shop), I’d encourage you to not wait until it’s too late to get out there and experience ever ything you’ve had on your list. You might just discover your new favorite spot, and then you can spread the word to make sure they stick around.

JOSH VEAL Managing Editor josh@serendipity-media.com

‘Til next time,

Call (616) 458-8371 or email sales@revuewm.com

BE A PART OF 2026! MAR/APR

MAY/JUNE

JULY/AUG

SEPT/OCT

NOV/DEC

DINING & DRINKING

SUMMER PLANNING GUIDE

BEST OF THE WEST

ARTS & MUSIC

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Spotlight On: Attractions & Experiences

Spotlight On: Spooky Fun Guide

Spotlight On: Experience the Holidays

Spotlight On: Cabin Fever, Film & Theater, Cannabis

Spotlight On: Festivals, Dessert & Cool Summer Treats, Farmers’ Markets

PLUS: Travel Guide Series

6 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

PLUS: Travel Guide Series

REAL VISIBILITY and DIRECT ACCESS! Advertise for as low as $150/month!

REVUEWM.COM

/// M US I C

Chris Cranick performs with his band Overdrive Orchestra at last year’s Jammies. PHOTO BY JOE HIRSCHMUGL

WEST MICHIGAN’S BIGGEST NIGHT FOR MUSIC RETURNS:

26TH ANNUAL JAMMIES Celebrating Community, Creativity, and the Power of Local Radio | by Eric Mitts

resented by community radio station W YCE 88.1 FM, the Jammies remain a rare kind of event: a marathon showcase where genres mix, generations mingle, and dozens of Michigan artists— from emerging performers debuting their f irst singles to revered local veterans— share the same spotlight. “It’s kind of true when people call it the biggest night of music,” W YCE Station Manager Phil Tower told Revue. “I don’t know any other event like this that happens in one night, for f ive hours, in one very intimate space.” This year’s edition brings the same eclectic energy the Jammies are known for, with 15– 20 artists expected to perform across The Intersection’s three stages on Feb. 20. W hile the full lineup, curated by W YCE Music and Program Director Chris Cranick, will be announced in January, he conf irmed the mix will feel both familiar and fresh. “We’re about half way booked,” Cranick said. “There’ll be some new covers, as I like to bring in, and some old favorites that haven’t played the Jammies in a while. It’ll be a nice mix of new and old… and obviously all of our different genres. We’re really trying to get even more diversity in the lineup than years past.” As always, that diversity is intentional, and no easy feat. “There’s def initely some f inesse involved,” Cranick said. “There are so many artists in the state that fall into certain genres—like a lot of Americana and folk, a lot of rock—so trying to represent those numbers while still bringing in world music, blues, more urban music, and hiphop… it’s a matter of making sure those other genres get represented.” W YCE’s recent introduction of a dedicated hip-hop category has also opened new doors. “We’ve been playing hip-hop here for 10 to 15 years,” Cranick said. “But giving it its own category and shining a light on those underrepresented artists again is really important.”

Despite its growth and evolution over the decades, the core purpose of the Jammies has never changed. “The real legacy is community building,” Tower said. “We created something that became a community-celebrating event. Anyone who has had the honor of leading a radio station knows what it means when your station is responsible for creating community through music.” And the community shows up, literally. “It’s the most frenetic, electric, crazy fun event I’ve ever been to with live music,” Tower said. “Everybody just seems happy. The demos are like eight years old to 81 years old. I love that aspect. A lot of parents bring their kids—ear protection on—and they’re out on the dance f loor dancing.” That family-friendly energ y wasn’t planned, but it’s become something special. The Jammies remain deeply connected to W YCE’s identity as a volunteer-run, listener-supported community station. “This is very much a grassroots event,” Tower said. “It’s all volunteer staffed. We have about 40 volunteers from the station, our onair hosts, our programmers, there that night.” GRT V will once again f ilm and stream all three stages live, with the footage later turned into exclusive YouTube content throughout the year. W hile Cranick keeps the lineup under wraps each year, he did offer one hint. “There are some artists from quite a few years back, before COV ID, who might be returning,” he said. “If you take a look at our old lineups, you can maybe guess.” The full roster will be announced in early January on W YCE’s airwaves and social media. The Intersection, a long-time partner, has made the event possible by donating use of the full venue each year. “That’s no small price,” Tower said. “If we had to write that check, it would be insanely expensive.” Beyond the music and celebration, the Jammies remain W YCE’s single biggest fundraiser of the year. “First and foremost, it really is a fundraiser

8 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

for the station,” Tower said. “We’re the only volunteer-run, listener-supported station on this side of the state. It’s a big deal.” For the second year, tickets for the Jammies will $10 in advance or at the door. “15 to 20 bands for 10 bucks? Yeah—not a bad deal,” Tower said with a laugh. A hallmark of the Jammies is its dual voting system: a critics’ ballot and a listener’s choice vote, both culminating in nearly 20 awards handed out the night of the event. One of the most heartfelt honors, the Against A ll Odds Award, returns again this year. The award recognizes an artist who has overcome extraordinary personal challenges to create their music. Tower still thinks about last year’s recipient, singer-songwriter Caitlin Cusack, whose story of loss, illness, injury, and resilience deeply moved the community. “She personified the Against All Odds Jammie without question,” he said. “Just about everything that could have been thrown at this young woman… she persevered.” Tower, who f irst led the station in the late ’90s—before streaming, before social

media, before Spotif y—sees the Jammies as not just entertainment, but as cultural preservation. “In an era before streaming existed, music discovery through the radio station was a huge thing,” he said. “W YCE was built on that. And the Jammies became an extension of that mission.” As the lights rise on The Intersection at 11 p.m. on Feb. 20, Tower hopes attendees feel part of something bigger. “I hope they realize they were part of a community-building event,” he said. “And that the community doesn’t dissipate after that night. It continues—through listening, through interacting, through attending other station events. That’s the beauty of it.” ■ WYCE 88.1 FM PRESENTS: JAMMIES 26 The Intersection, 133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW, Grand Rapids Feb. 20, 6 p.m., All ages, $10 Grcmc.com/wyce, Sectionlive.com

REVUEWM.COM

/// G ET O UT

World of Winter. PHOTOS (TOP AND BOTTOM LEFT) BY ALLISON KAY BANNISTER / (TOP AND BOTTOM RIGHT) COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS

WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD | by Allison Kay Bannister

remember the f irst year I attended a World of Winter event. It was still relatively new, and I was still relatively new to being outdoors in the depth of winter for any extended period of time. But, I really wanted to see the Hybycozo installations at A h-Nab-Awen Park—after dark, when they would be at their peak illumination. There were only a couple days left, so I dragged my ever-patient Mister out on what turned out to be one of the coldest nights of the year. That’s how we remember it, any way. It was bitter. But the reward was sweet. A visual feast of light, color, and intricate, geometric design. I credit that f irst arctic expedition for introducing me to the concept of dressing for the weather—and discovering that, with enough layers, anything is possible. And even enjoyable. I’d been actively trying to have a better relationship with winter for a few years, and WoW really sparked that. It gave me a reason to venture out, and inspired me to invest in gear like poles, cleats, base layers, and insulated boots (not that you necessarily need all that, but it’s good to have and I like shopping, so: win-win). WoW also gave me an interesting outdoor activity to put together for my women’s recreation group, and, in turn, ended up creating more converts to the idea that winter activity does have its merits. It used to be we’d only do a handful of winter hikes during the brisk months, and otherwise wait for spring to pick up steam again. Today, the majority of us are game for anything, including lantern-lit night hikes, snowshoeing, winter rafting, and other outdoor cold-weather events, like ENLIGHTEN at Frederik Meijer Gardens.

When we go to WoW, we like to meet at Canal Park, as that is typically one of the boundaries. It’s less fussy to park there (IMO), and it allows easy access to some of the other main spots. We can take the riverwalk to Ah-NabAwen Park, and see plenty of attractions along the way, then cross over to the Blue Bridge and loop around to Rosa Parks Circle. One year we walked all the way to Studio Park, which took us away from the festivities, but toward muchneeded facilities. And, I learned later the main reason for the detour was that the person leading the group wanted a warm treat from Insomnia Cookies. I was not mad. If I’ve done the math right, World of Winter is in its seventh season, and every year seems to top the last. It’s billed as “America’s largest free winter festival,” giving it a little added cred. For 2026, WoW runs January 9 – March 1, and that means I had to tap on the shoulder of a connection at Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGR I) to get the scoop on what isn’t happening yet, but will be (or almost be, depending) by the time you’re reading this.

On display during the entire timeframe of the festival are Anooki: Les Timides at DeVos Place and Anooki: Les Turbelents at Ah-Nab-Awen Park. These inf latable figures tell an important story about climate change, both educating and entertaining audiences. Also of interest is The DOOR(S) on the Blue Bridge. Best seen in the evening, from 5:00-11:00, this series of doors has themed animations behind each… and just what happens next is up to you to find out! DGRI also says Weci | Koninut is not to be missed during its limited run from January 22 – February 22. An interactive, sensory installation located at 555 Monroe, it’s composed of several large dreamcatchers that invite guests to explore the six seasons of the Atikamekw culture. What else? New to WoW this year will be Friday Night Food Trucks at 555 Monroe, featuring a rotating selection of vendors. And, there are other date-specific events, too. February 6, there’ll be two live audiovisual performances by Brett Bolton—one at 6:00 p.m. and one at 8:00 p.m. February 7, Monrroe & Buunshin, accompanied by two DJs, will headline a performance under the Somnius installation at Ah-Nab-Awen Park. There’ll also be fire performers, warming areas, and food trucks that night. Plus, Valentine’s Day promises something romantic for couples with the midday Luv’n Lunch and the nighttime Love on Ice, both at Rosa Parks Circle. These are just a few of the highlights. There are tons more things to see and do over the nearly two-month World of Winter festival. Visit worldof wintergr.com to see the entire roster. Oh, and one more thing: If f inding and paying big bucks for parking gets you down, there’s good news. The Area 9 lot at 250 Seward NW costs just $4 a day, and the free DASH shuttle service picks up from there roughly every 15 minutes. Wow! ■

REVUEWM.COM

/// D I N I N G

The Pantry, Uncle Cheetah’s Soup Shop, Cravings Deli. COURTESY PHOTOS (Far Left Image © Adobe Stock)

SHIFTING INTO SOUP MODE | by Josh Veal

othing cures a case of the winter blues like a piping hot, steamy bowl of soup. W hether it’s a creamy bisque, a hearty stew or a light broth, there’s something magical about it that warms our heart and bones. W hen the temperatures drop, an innate craving rises once again to the surface, and our bodies begin to demand it. That’s when we shift into soup mode. And if you can’t relate to this, perhaps it’s been too long since you enjoyed a quality bowl. That’s okay—we’re here to help. W hile just about every restaurant and café has a couple soups on the menu, some spots specialize in it and reliably offer a number of options. Here’s our guide to the few soup hubs in town.

THE PANTRY | 591 Ada Dr., Ada | thepantryada.com W hile The Pantry in Ada may be best known for their to-go meals and baked goods, they also offer 3-5 soups every single day—and every single one we’ve tried has been delicious. Chicken pot pie soup, enchilada soup, white chicken chili, Tuscan kale, lentils, Thai chili ramen, they do it all. Pair a cup with a slice of their fantastically f luff y quiche (for just $11 together), and you’ve got the ideal lunch, in our opinion. TWO BEARDS DELI | 38 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids | twobeardsdeli.com Two Beards has not just 90 sandwiches, plus salads and sides, but a menu of 4 soups every day. You’ll pretty much always f ind white chicken chili and a vegan tomato basil on the board, along with two rotating meat and vegan offerings. Stop by for bowls like butter chicken soup, “soy-boy chili,” curry caulif lower, carrot bisque and more. HORROCKS MARKET | 4455 Breton Rd. SE, Kentwood | horrocksmarket.com Welcome to soup heaven. Horrocks has a rotating buffet of 30+ soups every single day, spanning from classics like broccoli cheese and French onion to cactus chili, tomato zucchini, shrimp & corn chowder, and so many more. You could even come here, stock up and f ill your freezer to ensure you never go soup-less. UNCLE CHEETAH’S SOUP SHOP | 1133 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids | unclecheetah.com If you ask just about anyone near Grand Rapids where to get soup, the f irst words out of their mouth will be “Uncle Cheetah’s.” They’ve been around for years, establishing themselves as West Michigan’s preeminent soup scholars. Every day, they offer a rotating lineup of 12 options, all made 100 percent from scratch. Recent offerings include tomato saffron, buffalo caulif lower, turkey enchilada, dill Havarti, and lobster bisque. And their sandwiches are quality too! SCHNITZ DELI | 1315 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids | facebook.com/schnitzdeli This deli is deeply beloved in the community for its friendly service and large selection of equally large sandwiches, but they’re also known for a rotating cozy soup lineup! Stop in for a number of classics every day, like cheesy potato, chicken noodle, cream of mushroom and others.

12 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

RAMEN/PHO W hile we recognize ramen and pho are not the same and have different ancestries, multiple places around offer both together. For instance, Cravings Deli in Portage/Kalamazoo has beef pho along with all kinds of ramen, including BBQ pork, duck thigh, chicken paitan, shoyu and more. Meanwhile, Ginza Sushi & Ramen has seven different kinds of ramen on their menu, while Noodlepig focuses on authentic Japanese ramen, with all noodles made fresh in-house. They also have a big pozole, offering heartwarming Mexican f lavors, as well as Thai coconut curry. As for pho, some people will swear by Pho A nh Trang while others stand with Pho Soc Trang. You’ll just have to try both and see where you land. We have plenty of other options as well, including Vel Sushi and Pho, ToastN’ Tea, Asian Palace and more. This could be a whole article of its own, but our suggestion is to just get out and start slurpin’!

COUNTRY Comfort

1/04/26 Genna & Jesse – True. American.Roots.

2/01/26 Aaron Wright, Darcy Wilkin, Nicholas James Song writer Round

3/01/26 Hugh Poole – High Wire Blues

Reservations, Menus & Music Schedules at w w w.saltof theear thfennville.com

269.561.7258 | 114 E Main St. Fennville |

REVUEWM.COM

14 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

REVUEWM.COM

/// 50 TH I N G S TO DO TH I S WI NTE R

Things to Do This Winter

hen the icy winds of winter arrive in West Michigan, we all need a good reason to actually leave the house. Lucky for us, Michiganders have a lot of practice going through this season (it happens every year, in fact). W hich means we’ve found dozens of ways—at least 50 —to have a great time despite the cold. One of the best ways? Make the most of this weather! There are plenty of things we can only do thanks to the cold, between ice skating, snowshoeing and dining in an igloo. But if you’re looking to stay warm indoors, we have plenty of options too. This is the perfect time for bowling, go-karts and escape rooms. You’ll f ind ideas like these and many more in this year’s 50 things to do this winter.

16 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

Indoor Fun SEE A MOVIE AT WEALTHY THEATRE | grcmc.org | Unless you were born in 1920, you’ve missed a whole lot of cinema experiences. Whether it’s the sci-fi existentialism of Tarkovsky’s Stalker (1979) or the absurd idiocy of Dumb & Dumber (1994), Wealthy Theatre gives you the chance to see movies on the big screen—with a crowd of fellow fans—for the first time. Check the site for offerings including Edward Scissorhands, The Room, Legally Blonde, Tree of Life and more.

SING, IN PUBLIC | Before you try karaoke, it seems impossible. What if don’t know all the words? What if you’re totally tone deaf ? None of that matters even a little. Never in all our years of karaoke have we seen anything but total support from a crowd. You can get up there and sing the Star-Spangled Banner and people will eat it up. Plus, it’s FR EE. Wherever you live, chances are there’s karaoke going on somewhere every night of the week. Get out there and let it all out.

CONCERTS UNDER THE STARS | grpm.org | Easily the most unique concert venue in Michigan is the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s planetarium. This series brings together musicians and visual artists for a show that combines tunes with dazzling video manipulated in real-time, in sync with the music. This winter has two shows each month, starting with moody electro-synth pop duo How to Live Together and artist Kristin Zuller on Feb. 12-13.

MEANDER A MUSEUM | If you haven’t walked the halls of a museum in a while, winter is the perfect season. You can enjoy the power of art up close with sprawling exhibitions at the GR A M, Muskegon Museum of Art, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, and Kalamazoo Institute of Art. You can explore science and history with the GR Public Museum’s rotating experiences (and we don’t just mean the carousel), Muskegon’s USS Silversides, and Kalamazoo’s Air Zoo. Or you can enjoy art and nature together at Frederik Meijer Gardens!

SEE A TRIBUTE BAND | While a good chunk of touring bands seem to take winter off, presumably to avoid the icy conditions we Michiganders annually endure, tribute bands are out in full force. Some stick to one group, like The Rush Tribute Project (GLC Live, Feb. 22), Smells Like Nirvana (Intersection, Feb. 13) and Stayin Alive (Devos, Jan. 3). Others go with a theme, like 80s-focused Starfarm (Bell’s Brewery, Jan. 10) and 90s-centric Fool House (The Big Room, March 27). DINK AND DING | Pickleball has swept the nation, and if you’re the last skeptic holding out—why? It’s easy to learn, easy to play, easy on your body, and even affordable. And we have plenty of spots around town that make it easy to pick up a paddle and dink around indoors, including Pickle & Pin, Dinks and Dingers and Broad Leaf Kentwood around GR, or Friendly Pickle in Kalamazoo. GIVE IMPROV A CHANCE | If you’re an improv comedian, don’t read this next part: We all know improv has a reputation for being a bit cringe. And if all you’ve ever seen was your ex performing with his dormmates in college, that’s understandable. But the truth is, when done well, it’s a revelatory experience, a moment of communal joy that happens exactly one time and never again. We have groups like Pop Scholars, R iver City Improv and Battle Bots with collective decades of experience performing together, and we guarantee you’ll be delighted. Or, if you’re more into sketch comedy, check out The Comedy Project! TAKE A SEAT FOR STAND-UP | In addition to improv, we’re lucky to have stellar stand-ups visiting venues all over West Michigan. A few of the big names coming this winter include Rosebud Baker (Dr. Grins, Jan. 8-10) Brad Williams (DeVos, Feb. 13), Legends of Laughter (DeVos, Feb. 15), Lewis Black (Firekeepers Casino, Feb. 27), and Rory Scovel (Wealthy Theatre, Mar. 20). Keep an eye out for the LaughFest lineup as well, Mar. 11-15. TRY TRIVIA | Quite a few times, our editor has gone into trivia expecting to come in last, then left with a $20 gift card and a f leeting sense of superiority. Yes, this is a brag, but it’s also a reminder that you might be better at trivia than you think. Just about every brewery and distillery in town hosts a trivia night of some sort, so we don’t have room to list them all here, but keep in mind this is an ideal winter activity to get out of the house and socialize.

HONE YOUR CRAFTS | It’s never been a better time to try out a new craft, as workshops and studios have sprung up around West Michigan as people look for activities that don’t involve staring at a screen for hours on end. Places like Spruced Studio offer workshops for everything from embroidery to watercolor, tapestries, hat burning, knitting and much more. A lso check out Ghosthouse for f ine art, Pottery Lane and Mud Room for pottery, Pinspiration for various art parties, and Colors & Cocktails in Kalamazoo. PLAY MICHIGAN’S OFFICIAL CARD GAME | If you grew up here, there’s a decent chance at some point you were forced to learn how to play Euchre, or you’ve forced someone else to learn. Well, don’t let that knowledge go to waste! It’s like they say, “Pass up a bower, lose for an hour.” House Rules has Euchre Thursdays every week, while Harmony Brewing hosts euchre nights on Mondays. VISIT YOUR LIBRARY - NO READING REQUIRED | Of course, libraries are full of books and knowledge, and that’s reason enough to visit, but they offer so much more. Just about every day, you’ll f ind different events to attend, whether it’s crafternoons, yoga, genealog y nights, community game nights, language groups, historical society lectures, therapy dogs, or even Music in the Stacks—free concerts held right among the book-f illed shelves. DINE & DRAG | Drag brunches are still going strong in West Michigan, despite certain protestations, but they’ve also extended into drag dinners and beyond. For instance, on Jan. 8, MI Drag Brunch is hosting Shake, Sip & Slay, a drag cocktail class. On Jan. 29 is Brushes & Betches, a paint and sip experience with drag. Or for a unique brunch experience, check out Punk vs. Pop on Jan. 18! BOWL A 300 | Okay, so you might not bowl a perfect game this year, but it doesn’t hurt to try. When it’s dismally cold outside, bowling gives everyone an excuse to leave the house, get moving and enjoy a beer with some mid-tier fried food. It’s an American tradition. And if you’re looking to change it up, check out duckpin bowling at Woodrows in GR, Socibowl in Muskegon, or One Well Brewing in Kalamazoo.

REVUEWM.COM

/// 50 TH I N G S TO DO TH I S WI NTE R Outdoor Adventures FOWLING WITH FRIENDS | Is your overhand better than your underhand? Are you looking for an excuse to show off your tight spiral? Do you just like throwing stuff ? If so, the Fowling Warehouse is for you. It’s football and bowling combined, and anyone can do it. Plus, they have two fully-stocked bars, including liquor, wine, n/a beverages and beer that f ills from the bottom up, with something called the Mystery Beer Machine!

HIKE WITH GOATS | During their holiday hikes, running through January 11, Dreamgoats in Belding lets you hang out with (and hug) friendly goats, get some winter steps in, enjoy hot cocoa by a f ire, and even gives you a place to recycle your Christmas tree. It’s perfect for the whole family or your group of friends!

MOVE WITH A GROUP | If you struggle to go to the g ym consistently, a group exercise class might just be the key. You get expert guidance, which off loads the need for home research. You get community, which motivates you to keep going and is a rare place as an adult where you can make new friends. And you get scheduled appointments, which feel bad to cancel. Check out yoga, barre, cycling, kickboxing, pilates, zumba—whatever gets you moving!

SKATE THE ICE | Ice skating in the open air is fun, romantic, and often funny, as long as you’re not out there with an Olympic medalist. It’s the perfect excuse to hold hands as you both try not to fall—or, we suppose, it can be done platonically. This is the perfect year to check out the brand new Holland Ice Park, which includes a curling “sheet” if you’re interested in trying your hand at an Olympic sport. Or, head to Rosa Parks Circle in GR or Millennium Park in Portage!

CHEER FOR LOCAL SPORTS TEAMS | Embrace your inner superfan! Watch the Grand Rapids Griffins dominate the ice, root for the Grand Rapids Gold on the court, see Grand Rapids Rise bump, set and spike at a professional level, or check out the Grand Raggidy Roller Derby. These events are filled with entertainment from start to end, not to mention tasty stadium food and beer. BE AMAZED & AMUSED | trinomagic.com/amaze-and-amuse | You’ve spent hours watching Reels of magicians performing tricks and comedians telling jokes—now come see it in person. Featuring comedy magician Trino and a special guest performer every month, Amaze & Amuse incorporates comedy, mind-blowing magic, and lots of audience participation at Wealthy Theatre. Guests include sleight-of-hand magicians, comedy jugglers and more. CATCH A PLAY (OR DANCE) | Theater: It’s like a movie that happens in real-time, which makes it that much more impressive. That’s especially true for the big Broadway shows coming to town, like Disney’s The Lion King at DeVos, Apr. 8-26, or CHICAGO The Musical at Miller Auditorium, Jan. 20-21. But we also have fantastic local theater here, like Ain’t Misbehavin’ at GR Civic or Dance Nation at Actors Theatre. Not to mention our world-class dance scene, including GR Ballet, Deos Contemporary Ballet, and more. The Midwest Regional A lternative Dance Festival, held in Kalamazoo this March, is the perfect introduction to the dance world. MINI-GOLF, INDOORS | W hen the snow starts falling, the putt-putt courses quickly go into hibernation—unless they’re indoors, of course. Great Lakes Glow Golf is one perfect option, making use of blacklights to set the mood for an 18-hole course f illed with art and Michigan animals. You also get access to a free arcade here! Or, head to Big Mini Putt Club, which doubles as a bar and features 9 holes of uniquely challenging mini-golf, smack dab downtown. Plus, they have air hockey, skee ball, darts, giant Jenga and more. INDOOR GO-KART RACING | If you’re looking for some high-speed fun, we suggest doing it in a go-kart rather than risking your life and car in a street race. There are quality karts to be found at Craig’s Cruisers and AJ’s, but if you want to race like a pro, check out Grand Rapids Grand Prix, home to a 30,000-square-foot indoor track. The electric karts are fast (more so than a standard family fun center), the corners are tight, and there’s no snow or ice on the road to worry about. CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN | We may not have mountains in West Michigan, but we do have tons of top-notch climbing g yms. If you’re looking for an exercise that involves a surprising amount of logic and puzzle-solving, and makes use of muscles you may have never activated, climbing is the way to go. You can do rope climbing at spots like Scrapyard Climbing Collective, Higher Ground and Climb Kalamazoo, or go bouldering which doesn’t involve any ropes/ harnesses at Terra Firma and Shift. ROCK & ROLL | After a decade or so where roller rinks seemed to vanish from West Michigan, they’re def initely back in full force—and they’re not just for middle schoolers. Spots like Tarry Hall (which opened with new ownership in 2021) host adult nights that are 18+, so you can expect age-appropriate music, and you don’t have to worry about any unexpected speed bumps. A lso check out Rollxscape in Holland, Jumpin’ Jupiter in Muskegon, and Rollerworld in Kalamazoo. SHAKE A LEG | You might think you “can’t dance,” but the fact is, when you’re out on the f loor, no one can tell! They’re all busy moving and grooving on their own. So we suggest getting out there, with plenty of parties coming up soon, including multiple events at The Pyramid Scheme: Chvrch: In the Dead of Winter ( Jan. 24), Anime Night (Feb. 12), and Sleaze Freaks (Feb. 20). Or check out Daft Disko at The Intersection on Jan. 16.

18 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

MUSKEGON LUGE ADVENTURE SPORTS PARK | msports.org | As far as we know, there’s only one place around you can ice skate through the woods, and that’s Muskegon Luge. The 1/4 mile trail winds through a hardwood forest under twinkling lights, connected to a 2-acre outdoor rink. That’s not to mention the cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and the obviously unique luge track—one of only four in the entire country, and designed by an Olympian. MELT YOUR WORRIES AWAY IN HOLLAND | Holland is home to the largest municipal snowmelt system in North America, allowing you to stroll the cobblestone sidewalks year-round. That means you can easily shop for clothing, jewelry, books, gifts, home goods, hobbies and more, while enjoying food and drink at a number of local restaurants, bakeries, breweries and distilleries. SHOP THE KALAMAZOO MALL | Already been to Holland and wishing we had something similar but different nearby? Kalamazoo has large sections of heated sidewalks as well! You’ll find boutiques, bookstores, a Lego store, salons, gift shops, candy, ice cream, antique markets, and a thriving arts scene—alongside plenty of food and drink, of course. DRINK & DINE IN A DOME | Okay, so they’re not exactly traditional igloos made of ice and snow, but the heated domes around town still offer the magic and adventure of enjoying the outdoors without the harsh winter winds. Check out spots like Donkey, Third Nature Brewing, Farmhaus Cider, jdek at Margaux, Cody Kresta, Round Barn Winery, Three Blondes Brewing, and more! Just keep in mind they all have different rules in terms of reservations and pricing. SKI ‘CROSS THE COUNTRY | Skiing downhill has a learning curve, and let’s be honest, it’s a bit scary. Cross-country skiing, on the other hand, just takes some leg power and the motivation to keep moving forward. Just about anyone can do it, and it’s a great way to stay active in winter. Rent a set from Bill & Paul’s and take it to your favorite summer walking trail, or head to Palmer Park, Pigeon Creek Park or Muskegon Luge to rent a set on-premises, where the trails are sure to be groomed.

REVUEWM.COM

/// 50 TH I N G S TO DO TH I S WI NTE R Events PUT ON YOUR SNOWING SHOES | If you want something more leisurely than skiing, but still in the great outdoors, snowshoeing is the way to go. It forces you to slow down and smell the evergreens. This is one of the most affordable winter activities around and takes basically no preparation. Just show up and rent a pair at spots like Blandford Nature Center, Indian Trails Golf Course, Cannonsburg, or the Outdoor Discovery Center. TUBE TIME | Once you’re a full-grown adult, those cheap plastic sleds can prove diff icult, but tubes won’t let you down, as long as they’re inf lated. We have multiple spots around that let you enjoy the thrill of going down a hill, fast, from the comfort of a snow tube— and then take a tow rope back up to the top and do it all over again. Check out Echo Valley in Kalamazoo, Timber R idge in Gobles, and Cannonsburg in Belmont.

WINTER WHEAT MUSIC FESTIVAL | The Intersection | Jan. 10 | Enjoy nearly nine hours of music on two stages at The Intersection! With roots running deep in W heatland Music Festival traditions, Winter W heat welcomes all to come in out of the cold to warm up with the best traditional music that Michigan has to offer, featuring Americana, bluegrass, Cajun, Latin, honky-tonk and more. GRAND HAVEN WINTERFEST | Jan. 22-26 | We don’t want to exaggerate, but Grand Haven’s Winterfest might just be the most fun you’ll have all year, and it’s distinctly Michigan. This weekend of winter fun is designed to beat your cabin fever, with: a cardboard sled race, dog sled demos, f lapjacks, snow volleyball, glowbowl, bonf ire bash, slopestyle competition, snow angel contest, euchre tournament, and a f ireworks f inale! BLUE MAN GROUP | Miller Auditorium | Jan. 28-29 | Dive into the thrilling Blue Man Group experience—a blend of captivating music, interactive art and audience engagement. The iconic Blue Man Group creates a fun, disruptive and out of the ordinary atmosphere that exhilarates the senses and uplifts spirits for audiences of all ages. KALAMAZOO BOURBON FEST | Delta Hotels Conference Center | Jan. 31 | Are you a connoisseur of the brown stuff ? Kalamazoo Bourbon Fest is an indoor bourbon festival that features 100+ rare and high end whiskeys and bourbons, classic cocktails and local distilleries. Plus, food, live music and other vendors! DISNEY ON ICE: ROAD TRIP ADVENTURES | Van Andel Arena | Feb. 5-8 | Once you’ve been ice skating, you’ll realize what an impressive feat it is to perform an entire show, in costume, on the rink. Discover a W hole New World as you’re swept up in A laddin’s princely parade, featuring your favorite Disney characters including Frozen, Toy Story 4, The Lion King, Mary Poppins Returns and more. WINTER BEER FEST | LMCU Ballpark | Feb. 28, 1-6 p.m. | This is one of West Michigan’s most anticipated festivals every year, drawing people out into the cold winter air with hundreds of breweries offering more beer than you can imagine, along with local music, ice sculptures, f ire pits, food and more. It’s one big party, celebrating its 20th year in 2026! THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE | DeVos Performance Hall | March 16 | Ever dreamt of spinning The Big W heel? This is your chance! This isn’t just any stage show—it’s an interactive, non-televised, live version of the iconic game show you know and love, hosted by a larger-than-life celebrity host who brings all the fun, f lair, and unforgettable personality you expect from The Price Is R ight. MAPLE SUGAR FESTIVAL | Kalamazoo Nature Center | March 7 | Each year, we celebrate the f irst signs of spring, from the festival’s humble beginnings of a kettle on a tripod to today’s full day of activities with the all-important pancake breakfast topped off with real Michigan maple syrup. Join the generations of visitors who have walked across the iconic bridge to breathe in the fresh air and delicious smells of pancakes.

Travel IRONWOOD | If winter had a headquarters, it might be in Ironwood. Tucked into the western edge of the Upper Peninsula, winter adventure is the main event. The area’s legendary powder transforms the landscape into a playground for skiers, snowshoers, fat-tire bikers, and snowmobilers who crave long, winding trails through pine forests heav y with snow. Hit the slopes at nearby ski hills, then slow things down with a winter hike to frozen waterfalls or a peaceful trek through the Ottawa National Forest. Downtown Ironwood offers a warm contrast to the wild outdoors, with historic buildings, local diners, and no-frills taverns perfect for thawing out over a hearty meal. CADILLAC | Cadillac feels like the postcard version of winter Up North. Nestled between lakes and forests, the town leans fully into the season with outdoor recreation that’s approachable, family-friendly, and endlessly scenic. Caberfae Peaks delivers downhill thrills, while nearby trails invite cross-country skiers and snowshoers to glide through quiet woods. The lakes freeze into shimmering expanses ideal for ice f ishing, skating, or simply admiring from shore with a hot drink in hand. TRAVERSE CITY | In winter, this bustling summer hub softens into something more intimate, trading beach crowds for crackling f ireplaces and snow-dusted vineyards. Downtown shops and restaurants remain lively, offering plenty of reasons to stroll, browse, and linger over a long meal. Winter is prime time for tasting rooms along the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, where snow-covered vines create a dramatic backdrop for reds, whites, and warm conversation. Outdoor lovers can explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on snowshoes, watching Lake Michigan stretch out in icy blues and silvers. End the day f ireside at a hotel or inn, glass in hand, as snow falls softly outside. LANSING | Lansing offers a winter escape with an urban edge. The state capital balances outdoor beauty with cultural depth, making it an ideal cold-weather destination. Snow blankets river trails and parks, inviting quiet walks along the Grand R iver or a brisk afternoon in Fenner Nature Center. W hen the chill becomes too much, Lansing’s museums, galleries, and performance venues offer a reprieve. Catch a show, explore local history, or warm up at one of the city’s many coffee shops and eateries. From craft breweries to globally inspired menus, the food scene thrives year-round. ■

20 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

REVUEWM.COM

/// S POTLI G HT: WE D D I N G G U I D E

Venues THE RUTLEDGE | 120 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids | therutledgegr.com A downtown Grand Rapids favorite, The Rutledge lives up to its tagline as “a new classic.” You’ll find hardwood f loors, exposed brick, Edison bulb chandeliers, vintage violet-paned windows, and modern design f lourishes that photograph beautifully. The complimentary Baltic Suite offers a luxe hideaway for getting ready—or taking a quiet moment together. FRAUENTHAL CENTER | 425 West Western Ave., Muskegon | frauenthal.org A timeless Muskegon landmark, the Frauenthal Center offers multiple event spaces to suit celebrations both intimate and grand. From the cozy Frau Lounge to elegant third-f loor ballrooms that can be combined for larger guest lists, the venue pairs historic charm with thoughtful service and accessible pricing.

REVUE’S 2026

NEW ERA WEDDING BARN | 4701 W. Stony Lake Rd., New Era | ryevenues.com

Wedding GuidE

Rustic romance reigns at this DIY-friendly barn venue tucked among rolling countryside. With exposed beams, original barn wood f loors, and an airy open layout, New Era Wedding Barn blends pastoral charm with just the right amount of polish.

THE HIGH FIVE | 19 LaGrave Ave. SE, Grand Rapids | thehighfivegr.com

lanning a West Michigan wedding? You’ll want a dream team of local venues, vendors, and creatives to bring your vision to life. From stunning venues and delicious caterers to chic bridal shops and trendy mobile bars, the options are nearly endless. W hile we can’t possibly cover them all, we’ve rounded up a few standout picks for luxurious splurges, budget-friendly f inds, and everything in between. Here’s Revue’s guide to some of the best in town to help make your big day perfect.

THE BALLROOM AT MCKAY | 146 Monroe Center St. NW, Grand Rapids | ryevenues.com Classic elegance meets modern customization at this historic McKay Tower venue. Marble details, draping, and f lexible lighting allow couples to tailor the space to their vision, whether that’s black-tie glamour or timeless tradition.

This stunning loft-style venue delivers serious wow factor. Think soaring wood-beamed ceilings, oversized windows, exposed brick, vintage roller-rink f loors, and statement chandeliers—all in a wide-open, pillar-free space that lets your décor shine. NEW VINTAGE PLACE | 889 Broadway Ave. NW, Grand Rapids | ryevenues.com Once an industrial landmark, New Vintage Place now offers a dramatic blend of history and modern design. Towering windows, exposed brick, soaring ceilings, and multiple event spaces—including a cocktail lounge, courtyard, and outdoor amphitheater—make it a versatile standout with plenty of on-site parking.

Caterers RISE AUTHENTIC BAKING CO. | riseauthenticbaking.com Inclusive and indulgent, R ise Authentic Baking specializes in gluten-free, vegan, soy-free, and dye-free treats that don’t sacrif ice f lavor. Cakes, cupcakes, donuts, brownies—everyone at your wedding can enjoy dessert. TWO SCOTTS BARBECUE | twoscottsbbq.com A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, Two Scotts serves up some of the region’s best barbecue, with classic sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw. PARTAGE | experiencepartage.com W hether you need catering for a large, grandiose wedding or a small, intimate celebration, Partage has a diverse range of services, such as grazing tables, food truck snacks, stone-f ired pizza, vegan small bites, artisan bread, roaming dinner and more. GETTIN’ FRESH | gettinfreshevents.com Known for bold f lavors and high-quality ingredients, Gettin’ Fresh offers customizable menus that span classic American fare to globally inspired dishes.

The Ballroom at McKay, The Rutledge, New Vintage Place, Black Barrel Bar, Tipsy Burro, Frau Lounge. COURTESY PHOTOS

Beverages TIPSY BURRO | thetipsyburro.com For couples looking to surprise and delight, Tipsy Burro delivers beverages via miniature donkeys Benny, Bandit and Rufus. Dressed to match your theme, they mingle with guests while carrying everything from champagne to party favors. BLACK BARREL BAR | blackbarrelbar.com Housed in a beautifully restored 1971 Airstream, Black Barrel Bar brings mobile bartending to a whole new level. They offer fullservice packages—including bartenders, alcohol, glassware, and insurance—wrapped in a sleek, modern aesthetic. BEVIAMO! MOBILE BAR | beviamobar.com W hether you choose Vinny, the colorful vintage-style camper bar, or Mini Vinny, a charming bar cart, Beviamo! delivers handcrafted cocktails and mocktails that look as good as they taste.

Bridal Boutiques JAE LAIMEE BRIDAL | 4482 Airline Hwy, Muskegon | jaelaimeebridal.com Located in Muskegon, Jae Laimee Bridal continues to grow as a trusted destination for brides seeking a couture-level, one-on-one appointment experience. The boutique offers personalized guidance, custom f ittings, and a thoughtful selection of gowns for every style from timeless classics to modern statement pieces. RC CAYLAN ATELIER | 1876 Breton RD. SE., Grand Rapids | rccaylan.com From bridal gowns to red-carpet-ready designs and tailored suits, RC Caylan Atelier creates fashion-forward pieces with a bespoke feel. Each look is thoughtfully designed to ref lect the client’s individual style. RENEE AUSTIN WEDDING | 1555 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids | reneeaustinwedding.com A staple of the West Michigan wedding scene, Renee Austin Wedding is known for its warm, intimate atmosphere and a carefully curated collection of elegant, glamorous, and chic gowns. BIANKA BRIDAL | 125 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids | biankabridal.com Family-owned and full-service, BI A NK A Bridal focuses on creating a joyful, memorable experience. Their mission: make dress shopping one of the highlights of your wedding journey. MEMORIES BRIDAL | 203 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo | dresslikeyou.com At Memories Bridal, one-on-one styling is the priority. Stylists take time to understand each bride’s vision, personality, and comfort, helping you f ind a gown that feels authentically you.

Bridal Shows GRAND RAPIDS BRIDAL SHOW | DeVos Place | 303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids | Jan. 9-10 | grbridalshow.com Turn your dream wedding into a reality. This is a two-day show full of amazing vendors with unique goods for your dream day! Come and sample goods, check off your to-do list and more at West Michigan’s largest bridal show. Brides get in for FR EE by registering in advance. WINTER BRIDAL SHOW 2026 | DeVos Place | 303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids | Jan. 24 | kohlerexpo.com The Winter Bridal Show of West Michigan brings everything you need to make your dreams come true. Discover top local wedding vendors; get inspired by the latest trends in fashion, f lorals, food, and photography; explore ideas for every style, every budget, and every bride; and enjoy a can’t-miss runway moment to inspire your walk down the aisle. WEST MICHIGAN WEDDING EXPO | Frauenthal Center | 425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon | Jan. 31, 12-5 p.m. | westmichiganwedding.com This expo welcomes hundreds of brides-to-be, couples, families, and wedding professionals for a day f illed with inspiration, fashion, planning resources, and exceptional local vendors. And admission is free! Be sure to be around for 3:30 p.m., when Jae Laimee Bridal will present a curated collection of elegant bridal gowns during the Runway Show, featuring select gowns, accessories, and custom bridal looks. ■

REVUEWM.COM

/// RE VUE ARTS

Suzanne D. Parish Theatre, Dogfight Artwork / Carver Center, The Cherry Orchard Artwork. COURTESY PHOTOS

LAUGHTER AND LOSS ONSTAGE at Kalamazoo Civic Theatre | by John Kissane

ince its publication in 1904, it’s been an open question as to whether The Cherry Orchard is a comedy or a tragedy. Anton Chekhov, its author, saw it as the former; Konstantin Stanislavski, its f irst director, saw it as a tragedy. Like life, it intermingles elements of both. This play, onstage for Kalamazoo Civic Theatre’s season January 16-25, tells the story of Madame Ranevskaya, an aristocratic Russian woman who returns to her family estate just as it’s about to be sold off to pay familial debts. The estate is beloved, not least because of the glorious cherry orchard living on it, and several offers are made to save it. Madame Ranevskaya is unmoved. The madame has a seventeen-yearold daughter, Anya, who attracts the eye of Peter Trof imov, a young student and former tutor of Madame Ranevskaya’s son. Even as life seems to be ending for the estate, life itself goes on; the play offers a pageant of characters, from the up-andcoming to down-on-their-luck beggars. It’s a reminder that even in societies stratif ied by class (as if there were any other kind!), we don’t exist in bubbles. There are earnest discussions of love, idealism, and beauty, all the more resonant because the play never loses sight of the baser comedy of life. The play’s both high-

minded and clear-eyed: a rarity, and a welcome one. “The themes of The Cherry Orchard are timeless,” wrote Dr. Miriam Thomas, this production’s director, “and Chekhov writes with a remarkable understanding of human nature—our desires and disappointments, our hopes and frustrations, the absurdities and dramas of everyday life.” The play transmits great insights not only into aristocratic Ranevskaya’s own life, with its laughter and deep sadness, but into the lives of those around her. W hile she’s central, other characters, drifting into view as they orbit her, are themselves given great depth. The play’s understanding of the human heart has led it to be considered a 20th century classic. That wasn’t always the accepted view. W hile audiences embraced it upon its release, critics were less quick to do so; despite that, it became hugely popular, achieving worldwide success. It’s been staged every year since its release. Of course, the 20th century isn’t the 21st; the world has changed in enormous ways since pre-revolutionary Russia. Still, as much as border lines have changed—not to mention technolog y—the human heart is as it ever was. Of course The Cherry Orchard ’s relevant. It’s about us. Next up in the season, it’s hard to

24 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

imagine a less gallant premise than that of Dog fight, the off-Broadway musical based on the 1991 film of the same name—hitting the Kalamazoo Civic’s stage Feb. 20-March 1. In 1963, three Marines, due to leave the next day for Vietnam, decide to have a dogfight: a contest to see which of them can bring the ugliest date to a dance. They each throw $50 into the pot; whoever wins gets it. Asked about the challenge of casting unattractive characters, Kennedy points out the magic makeup and costuming can work. W hile he acknowledges that the premise might turn away some viewers, he’s conf ident that those who come will f ind themselves more than glad they did so. Eddie Birdlace, one of the Marines, meets Rose Fenny, a waitress, at a diner. She’s more shy than unattractive, but he f igures she’s his best bet, so he invites her to the dance. From these uncomfortable beginnings, Dog fight turns out to be surprisingly warm and true, and even, at times, sentimental. It’s as much a musical about the 1960s as it is about an interpersonal drama. “It’s split right down the middle,” said Anthony J. Hamilton, artistic director of The Civic and director of Dog fight. The 1960s are commonly seen as a time of innocence lost, a view Hamilton agrees with. It’s no coincidence that the night of the dogfight is

the night before President Kennedy was shot. It’s told retrospectively, after that national loss of innocence. Birdlace, having survived the war, has returned to an America that seems very different than the one he left. He reminisces about the night of the dogf ight, and about the young woman he met that night—how he found himself liking her more than he’d thought he would, and how he hurt her any way. The music for Dog fight is both periodappropriate, helping to set the scene, and emotionally resonant. “Dogfight” and “Pretty Funny,” in particular, have been embraced by musical theater fans. Words and music are by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, who would go on to write the music for Dear Evan Hansen, a 21st-century Broadway touchstone. The Cherry Orchard and Dog fight: one written over a century before the other. Despite their differences—one a musical, one not; one about events in living memory, one about a vanished past—they resemble each other more than might seem obvious. After all, they’re both about changing societies and the unchanging human soul. ■ KALAMAZOO CIVIC THEATRE 329 S. Park St., Kalamazoo kazoocivic.com

RELYING ON WORD OF MOUTH? THERE’S A MORE EFFECTIVE —AND RELIABLE—WAY!

PARTNERING WITH REVUE IS A PROVEN WAY TO INCREASE VISIBILITY, REACH NEW CUSTOMERS AND STAY TOP OF MIND THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.

Let’s connect and get in front of our audience! Kelli Belanger, Media Sales Manager kelli@revuewm.com

www.revuewm.com

REVUEWM.COM

/// RE VUE ARTS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

ARTSCalendar

| by Revue Staff

AVENUE FOR THE ARTS

GRAND RAPIDS BALLET

KALAMAZOO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

106 Gallery 106 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids avenueforthearts.co

341 Ellsworth Ave. SW, Grand Rapids grballet.com

359 Kalamazoo Mall Ste. 100, Kalamazoo kalamazoosymphony.com

SWAN LAKE, Feb. 27-Mar. 1

RAGTIME, Jan. 14 SOUNDS OF THE MIDDLE EAST, Jan. 29 MAHLER’S THIRD SYMPHONY, Feb. 21

FIRST FRIDAYS, Jan. 2, Feb. 6 JUNK DRAWER, Through Jan. 9 RAPID ART MOVEMENT, Jan. 30-31 BREAK IT DOWN | MAKE IT BETTER, Feb. 28

BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS 122 Lyon St. NW, Grand Rapids broadwaygrandrapids.com

KIMBERLY AKIMBO, Jan. 27-Feb. 1 & JULIET, Mar. 10-15

FARMERS ALLEY THEATRE KALAMAZOO 221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo farmersalleytheatre.com

PRIMARY TRUST, Jan. 22-Feb. 1

GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE 30 N. Division Ave., Grand Rapids grct.org

MILLER AUDITORIUM

AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’, Jan. 16-Feb. 1 THE LIGHTNING THIEF, Feb. 27-Mar. 15

2200 Auditorium Dr, Kalamazoo millerauditorium.com

GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY

CHICAGO THE MUSICAL, Jan. 20-21 BLUE MAN GROUP, Jan. 28-29 CLUE, Feb. 4-5

300 Ottawa Ave. NW Ste. 100, Grand Rapids grsymphony.org Shrek 2 In Concert, Jan. 2

MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART

BOLÉRO, Jan. 9-10 RAVISHING RACHMANINOFF, Jan. 23-24 CELEBRATE AMERICA @ 250!, Feb. 6-7 BOSTON POPS TRIBUTE, Jan. 16-17

296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon muskegonartmuseum.org

ART NOUVEAU: AGE OF ELEGANCE, Through Jan. 11

CROSSROADS: INTERSECTIONS OF BLACK FAMILY CULTURE, Through Mar. 15

FRANKE CENTER FOR THE ARTS

JEWISH THEATRE GRAND RAPIDS

214 E Mansion St., Marshall thefranke.org

2727 Michigan NE, Grand Rapids jtgr.org

IRISH PUB NIGHT, Jan. 10 EMBER & ASH, Jan. 16 ICE, WINE, BEER & BLUES, Jan. 30-31 TINSLEY ELLIS, Feb. 21

THE FLYING LOVERS OF VITEBSK, Feb. 5-15

FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids meijergardens.org

JAZZ BRUNCH, Jan. 17, Feb. 1, 7 ORCHID SHOW, Jan. 24-25 WINTER NIGHTS, Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24 JAUME PLENSA, Thru Mar. 15

KALAMAZOO CIVIC THEATRE

ST. CECILIA MUSIC CENTER 24 Ransom Ave. NE, Grand Rapids scmc-online.org

JOHN PIZZARELLI TRIO, Jan. 15 EMMET COHEN, Feb. 26

329 S. Park St., Kalamazoo kazoocivic.com

THE CHERRY ORCHARD, Jan. 16-Feb. 1 THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL, Feb. 6-15 DOGFIGHT, Feb. 20-Mar. 1

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY 360 W. Western Ave. Ste. 200, Muskegon westmichigansymphony.org

SUPERHEROES AT THE SYMPHONY, Jan. 30 GERSHWIN’S PIANO CONCERTO, Feb. 27

KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS 314 South Park St., Kalamazoo kiarts.org

GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM 101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids artmuseumgr.org

AS WE RISE: PHOTOGRAPHY FROM THE BLACK ATLANTIC, Through Apr. 26 PARISA GHADERI: FOR DANCING IN THE STREETS, Through Apr. 26

WASHI TRANSFORMED: NEW EXPRESSIONS IN JAPANESE PAPER, Through Jan. 11

FUTURE NOW: VIRTUAL SNEAKERS TO CUTTING-EDGE KICKS, Feb. 7-June 7

26 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter

View our full arts and entertainment calendar at www.RevueWM.com/calendar

REVUEWM.COM

28 J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y | 50 Things to Do This Winter