Revue West Michigan - May/June 2026

MAKING SURE EVERYONE FEELS WELCOME FRESH PICKS: WEST MICHIGAN FARMERS MARKETS A NEW STAGE FOR THE CITY: THE RISE OF GRAND RAPIDS’ ACRISURE AMPHITHEATER

WHAT'S INSIDE

GET OUT

10 What’s Going On

12 A New Stage for the City: The Rise of Grand Rapids’ Acrisure Amphitheater

14 30 Years and Nine Lives: Goldfinger Prepares to Ska the Lot

15 On Stage and In the Paint: From Indian Lakes

16 Homegrown and Headlining: saturdays at your place Celebrate Kalamazoo Roots

WHO'S WHO

Managing Editor | Josh Veal, josh@serendipity-media.com

Art Director | Courtney Van Hagen

Marketing Specialist | Kelsey Hewson

Distribution | Kelli Belanger

18 Making Sure Everyone Feels Welcome

SPOTLIGHT

32 Festival Guide 2026 36 Fresh Picks: West Michigan Farmers Markets

ARTS

40 Color in Full Bloom: Chihuly Transforms Meijer Gardens 42 Arts Calendar

FEATURE

22 2026 West Michigan Summer Bucket List Patio Season in West Michigan + Southwest Lakeshore Travel Guide

Contributing Writers | Allison Kay Bannister, John Kissane, Eric Mitts, Michaela Stock

ADVERTISING

Media Sales Consultant | Anna Sullivan, anna@serendipity-media.com

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JOSH VEAL Managing Editor josh@serendipity-media.com

Ithink people who have lived in West Michigan their whole lives, like myself, might take summers here for granted.

Okay, yes, we spend at least 6 months of the year waiting for the season to come back around, but I mean really appreciating the uniquely gorgeous freshwater marvel we have in Lake Michigan.

You hear it from expats all the time, lamenting what they’ve lost. “Ugh, I miss the summers so much. It’s almost worth it just for that. But the winters…” and then they look off into the void.

Well, I for one am determined to soak up every second of sun and sand I can this summer. We have one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world right here, with dozens of beaches to choose from, and not a single one has jellyfish, stingrays, sharks or gators, as far as I know. And I say that with all due respect to our aquatic friends.

That’s why, in this issue, you’ll find our Summer Bucket List, giving you more than enough ideas to plan for the months ahead—while keeping in mind that some of the season’s best events likely haven’t even been announced yet. We have ideas for scenic hikes, fun on the river, treetop adventures, places to see animals, outdoor movies, summer concert series, a drive along the coast, and so much more.

On top of that, check out our guide to dining and drinking outdoors on West Michigan’s best patios, an annual roundup of festivals, a look at farmers markets in the area, and an exploration of accessible activities around town.

Not to mention a behind-the-scenes look at Acrisure Amphitheater, a dive into the massive Chihuly exhibition at Meijer Gardens—likely to draw more than a million visitors—and interviews with bands both local and touring, including Goldfinger, saturdays at your place, and From Indian Lakes.

All right, enough talk. It’s time to get out there and bask in the sun.

‘Til next time,

WHAT’S GOING ON

MAY/JUNE '26

5/2

COCKTAILS & COSTUMES: A MURDER MYSTERY EXPERIENCE

Midtown at Studio Park 123 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids May 2, 7 p.m. themidtowngr.com

Immerse yourself in a comedic murder mystery cocktail party where YOU are part of the story at Midtown GR. The Murder Mystery Co. welcomes you to the live immersive theatrical event, where each month brings a new adventure. In May, the theme is Best Laid Plans, an old 30s Hollywood Whodunnit.

5/12

LEO KOTTKE

St. Cecilia Music Center

24 Ransom NE, Grand Rapids May 12, 7:30 p.m. scmcgr.org

Leo Kottke has become known over the decades as one of the greatest acoustic guitarists of our time, with an iconic, playful fingerpicking approach to blues, jazz and folk. When performing, he’s known for dry, witty stage banter among instrumental selections played solo on 6- and 12-string guitars. See him in acoustically world-class venue at St. Cecilia.

5/17

GRAND RAPIDS SPRING MARKET

Fulton Street Market 1145 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids May 17, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. fultonstreetmarket.org

This outdoor event at the Fulton Street Market will feature 120+ talented makers showcasing their unique products in this vibrant, covered space. Enjoy live music, delicious food trucks, and a wonderful shopping experience with local artisans! Admission is just $3 for adults (kids get in free), and they accept both cash and cards at the door.

5/19

BRIT FLOYD: THE MOON, THE WALL & BEYOND

DeVos Performance Hall

303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids

May 19, 7:30 p.m. devosperformancehall.com

Brit Floyd have become known as the definitive live Pink Floyd experience, setting the standard for tribute performances, delivering stadiumscale concerts that combine stunning musicianship, cuttingedge visuals, and an unparalleled attention to detail. The 2026 tour will feature a full performance of seminal album The Dark Side of the Moon, highlights from The Wall, and more.

5/23

PETE DAVIDSON

FireKeepers Casino

11177 E. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek May 23, 8 p.m. firekeeperscasino.com

From 2014 to 2022, Pete Davidson was a cast member on Saturday Night Live, becoming one of the youngest performers in the show’s history. He’s gone on to become a stand-up comedian, writer, actor and podcaster, and now he’s coming to FireKeepers for a night on the stage.

5/24

QUEER ART MART 2026

Fulton Street Market

1145 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids May 24, 1-4 p.m. betkapopeproductions.com

The flowers are blooming, the colors are popping, and Queer Art Mart is back for its second fabulous year! Join for an afternoon bursting with creativity, community, and springtime joy at Queer Art Mart 2026 a vibrant celebration of local queer and queer-aligned artists, makers, businesses, and organizations.

5/27

KID CUDI

Acrisure Amphitheater

201 Market Ave. SW, Grand Rapids May 27, 6:30 p.m. acrisureamphitheater.com

Genre-bending hip-hop visionary Kid Cudi is hitting the road this spring with his electrifying Rebel Ragers Tour, a high-energy celebration of more than a decade of genre-defying hits and deeply personal storytelling. Joined by powerhouse special guests M.I.A. and Big Boi, the tour promises a powerful night of hip-hop, rock, and atmospheric visuals.

5/29

MARIE ANTOINETTE (20TH ANNIVERSARY SOIREE)

Wealthy Theatre

1130 Wealthy St. SE Grand Rapids May 29, 8 p.m. grcmc.org

Join the Grand Rapids Film Society in celebrating the 20th anniversary of writer/ director Sofia Coppola’s brilliant biopic, Marie Antoinette, with a special soirée screening event! They’re hosting a pre-show party and costumes are HIGHLY encouraged, so don’t forget to arrive early to enjoy tunes from the film’s iconic soundtrack while perusing goodies from a variety of local vendors in Wealthy Theatre’s lobby.

5/30

MERCHANTS & MAKERS

John Ball Zoo

1300 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids May 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. jbzoo.org

Shop in the front entrance parking lot among 100+ local makers showcasing their unique creations, enjoy live music throughout the day, and treat yourself to delicious food from a variety of food trucks. Best of all, this is a FREE community event!

ALL YOUR FRIENDS

- THE INDIE PARTY

The Intersection - Stache

133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW, Grand Rapids May 30, 8 p.m. sectionlive.com

An indie dance party for the ones who still romanticize a scratched iPod, American Spirits, and a blurry night scored by Bloc Party, LCD Soundsystem and Crystal Castles.

6/3

AN EVENING WITH STEVE BURNS Miller Auditorium

1341 Theatre Dr., Kalamazoo June 3, 7:30 p.m. millerauditorium.com

Spend an unforgettable night with Steve Burns, the original host of Blue’s Clues, in an intimate, moderated conversation that’s equal parts heartfelt, humorous, and nostalgic. With candid stories, behind-thescenes insights, and thoughtful reflections on growing up, this evening offers fans a rare opportunity to reconnect with a familiar friend.

6/6

CITY BUILT BLOCK PARTY 2026

City Built Brewing 820 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids June 6, Noon-10 p.m. facebook.com/citybuiltbrewing

Join City Built Brewing as they celebrate their 9th Anniversary with the biggest (now even bigger) block party on Mason Street. The street next to the taproom will be closed down for a stage with live music from Humboldt Park Orchestra, Furia del Ritmo and DJ Alpha1Music, along with an outside bar and food from Los Mariscos de Pancho, PizzaMI and Semifreddo Dessert.

6/9

THE OUTSIDERS: A NEW MUSICAL Broadway Grand Rapids 303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids June 9-14 devosperformancehall.com

Experience the story that defined a generation, reimagined as a groundbreaking musical. Adapted from S.E. Hinton’s seminal novel and Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic film, this thrilling new Broadway musical Ponyboy Curtis in Tulsa, Oklahoma, 1967, as his Greaser family of ‘outsiders’ battle with their affluent rivals, the Socs. The Outsiders navigates the complexities of self-

discovery as the Greasers dream about who they want to become in a world that may never accept them.

6/13

PATTIE GONIA: SAVE HER!

The Big Room at SILVA 975 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids June 13, 8 p.m. pyramidschemebar.com

Pattie Gonia stars in SAVE HER!, a drag show about the climate, politics, and the power of nature. Featuring co-hosts VERA, Sequoia, and an all-star cast of local drag kings and queens, this show delivers performances with humor, power, upcycled outfits, and more.

6/14

JOURNEY

Van Andel Arena

130 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids

June 14, 7:30 p.m. vanandelarena.com

After more than five decades of electrifying performances, charttopping hits, and timeless anthems, the iconic rock band JOURNEY is saying goodbye the only way they know how—with a thunderous, fullthrottle Final Frontier Tour. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers will be touring an all new stage production with hits like “Don’t Stop Believin,” “Any Way You Want It,” and more.

6/19

THE WEST MICHIGAN CHALK ART FESTIVAL Tanger Outlets

350 84th St. SW, Byron Center June 19-21 tanger.com/grandrapids

This annual Chalk Art Festival at Tanger Grand Rapids brings explosions of color, vitality, and the community of West Michigan together. Artists are invited to display their creativity and imagination and demonstrate the many varieties of chalk art. Children, adults, families, and businesses are all invited to create their own art!

6/26

LOCKED ZOO: SECRET SAFARI

John Ball Zoo

1300 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids June 26, 6-9 p.m. jbzoo.org

Get ready to embark on an epic adventure at Locked Zoo! This exhilarating, after hours event transforms John Ball into a thrilling escape game room, with teams of 1-6 players tackling an elaborate series of puzzles. Work against the clock to unravel nature-related mysteries, solve intricate puzzles, and explore the zoo like never before.

For years, the idea of a large outdoor concert venue along the river in downtown Grand Rapids felt like a hopeful dream.

Now, with the grand opening of the new Acrisure Amphitheater on May 15, that vision is soon becoming one of the city’s most ambitious live entertainment projects to date.

“People may not realize, this idea has been around for 10 to 15 years, at least,” Rich MacKeigan, general manager for ASM Global—overseeing Van Andel Arena, DeVos Performance Hall, DeVos Place, and now Acrisure Amphitheater—told Revue “It’s gone from something people talked about for over a decade to a venue that’s about to open. That’s pretty exciting.”

While the concept for an amphitheater had circulated for years, the project gained real momentum once infrastructure improvements made the riverfront site viable for development. State funding helped relocate a major sewer line in the area—a complex but critical step that freed up the land where the amphitheater now stands, 201 Market Ave., along the Grand River, right in the heart of downtown.

From there, civic organizations, community leaders, and others helped push the project along. Groups like Grand Action 2.0 embraced the concept, while city and county partners also joined in the effort to bring the venue to life.

But like many large-scale public-private projects, the amphitheater needed a catalyst to really move it towards completion.

“A lot of these types of projects need that first domino to fall,” MacKeigan said.

That domino arrived when Acrisure, and its CEO Greg Williams, committed

early financial support—helping accelerate the timeline and cement the project’s legitimacy in the community.

“That really positioned the project extremely well,” MacKeigan said. “It made the conversation much easier than if it was just an idea floating around.”

Construction milestones soon followed. Groundbreaking made the amphitheater tangible, and as the structure began to rise, its presence started to reshape the downtown skyline.

One of the most striking moments came with the installation of the venue’s sweeping canopy, now clearly visible to drivers along U.S. 131.

“People who don’t drive through downtown every day started seeing it and saying, ‘Wow, what is that?’” MacKeigan said.

Another moment that made the project feel suddenly real came when the venue’s seating was installed earlier this year.

“When the seats went in, it looked like you could have hosted a show,” he said. “There’s still work to be done, but that was definitely one of those moments where you step back and go, ‘Okay, this is happening.’”

Unlike many amphitheaters located on the outskirts of other cities, the Acrisure Amphitheater sits directly in the heart of downtown, along the banks of the Grand River. With a capacity of over 12,000, the venue is designed to host national touring entertainment, while maintaining an intimate feel.

MacKeigan believes the location is one of the venue’s biggest advantages.

“I’ve always been a big advocate of downtown venues,” he said. “People can grab dinner, meet friends, go to the concert, and

A NEW STAGE FOR THE CITY: The Rise of Grand Rapids’ Acrisure Amphitheater

| by Eric Mitts

then keep the night going downtown. That’s what makes venues like this really work.”

Guests will enjoy walkable access to a wide range of restaurants, bars, hotels, retail, and cultural experiences, making the amphitheater a key anchor for the city’s entertainment district. Projected to welcome more than 300,000 visitors each season, the venue is expected to bring new energy to downtown while benefiting from the amenities already surrounding Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place, and DeVos Performance Hall.

MacKeigan said community leaders intentionally challenged architects to design a venue that was visually iconic— not just functional.

“It could have been done cheaper, or more plainly,” MacKeigan said. “But the goal was to make something architecturally special.”

The result is a riverfront amphitheater designed to wow audiences, touring artists, and production crews. MacKeigan said he believes performers and staff visiting from across the country will be just as impressed as the fans.

“They’re going to be wowed by the building itself, the amenities, and the fact that it’s right on the river,” he said.

Future improvements to the surrounding Riverwalk will connect the amphitheater seamlessly with downtown, enhancing the overall experience.

The venue will officially open with a grand opening concert featuring Lionel Richie on May 15, a booking made possible through long-standing professional relationships with Acrisure and local project supporters.

The night will also include Michigan talent: Americana duo The War and Treaty, and Grand Rapids’ own Brian Vander Ark,

frontman of The Verve Pipe. Including local artists reflects the amphitheater’s connection to the community.

“We wanted to acknowledge the community we’re in,” MacKeigan said. “It felt like the right way to celebrate Grand Rapids and Michigan music.”

While touring shows will headline the schedule, including over 40 nationallytouring events, the Acrisure Amphitheater is intended to be a professional performing arts venue with versatile use. Local arts organizations are exploring performances, including potential symphony events, and convention planners have expressed interest in hosting large gatherings, corporate events, and private functions.

“We’ve already got four or five private events booked,” MacKeigan said. “People are looking at using the stage, the pit, the seating areas in all sorts of creative ways.”

For its inaugural season, the amphitheater’s programming will span multiple genres and audiences, ensuring that the venue resonates with as much of the community as possible.

“These venues are community assets. We want as many people as possible to find something that speaks to them.”

Looking further ahead, MacKeigan hopes the amphitheater can earn a similar place in the public’s heart as the city’s other downtown venues, which have been successfully managed for over 30 years.

And when fans leave their first concert at Acrisure Amphitheater?

MacKeigan hopes their reaction is simple:

“Wow.”

Wow because of the music. Wow because of the building. Wow because of the experience of being downtown together. ■

ACRISURE AMPHITHEATER

GRAND OPENING: LIONEL RICHIE

Wsg. The War & Treaty, Brian Vander Ark May 15, 7:30 p.m., Price varies Acrisure Amphitheater, 201 Market Ave. SW, Grand Rapids acrisureamphitheater.com

30 YEARS AND NINE LIVES:

Goldfinger Prepares to Ska the Lot

|

by Eric Mitts

For more than three decades, Goldfinger has thrived on a joyful chaos—the kind that leaves stages soaked in sweat, horns blaring, guitars buzzing, and crowds bouncing like it’s 1996 again.

And in a way, for Goldfinger, it kind of is. Not in a purely nostalgic, stuck-intime sort of way, but how the same restless energy that helped define the band during the ska-punk explosion of the mid-’90s continues to fuel them today.

And with the release of their ninth fulllength album, Nine Lives , back in January, that energy feels as vital as ever now in 2026. So it’s fitting that a band synonymous with endurance, reinvention, and unpredictability would land on a title like Nine Lives . Because if there’s one thing Goldfinger guitarist Charlie Paulson knows for certain, it’s that longevity in punk rock is never a guarantee.

“Oh, for sure,” Paulson said with a laugh when Revue asked if the band has nine lives. “Especially me… somebody screenshot something and sent it to me. There was a comment on some YouTube Goldfinger something, and it said, ‘Charlie comes and goes as he pleases. He’s kind of like a house cat.’ So, Nine Lives specifically for me, yes.”

Formed in Los Angeles in 1993,

Goldfinger emerged alongside genredefining peers like Rancid, No Doubt, Sublime and others, helping to push skapunk into the mainstream with upbeat rhythms, sharp hooks, and an irreverent sense of humor.

Their breakout single, “Here in Your Bedroom,” off their 1996 self-titled debut album, became an alt-rock radio and MTV favorite, launching the band into relentless touring and a reputation for explosive live shows—including a Guinness World Record for performing 385 shows in a single year.

But now, Paulson admits it’s hard to fully grasp the band’s legacy.

“It’s hard to see it from the inside,” he said. “We played Warped Tour last summer… we were one of the senior bands on that bill. And (bassist) Mike (Herrera) and I were walking through the crowd, and almost nobody approached us. But then we went back into the artist area, we were getting stopped every five feet by younger bands.”

What struck him wasn’t just the recognition, it was hearing the lasting and far-reaching impact his music has had.

“Bands that sound nothing like us… emo bands, metalcore kids, are like, ‘Dude, I learned how to play guitar listening to you.’ So, it’s hard to put a finger on it, because

the influence is definitely undeniable.”

One of the band’s biggest breakouts came with the inclusion of arguably their most ska-punk song, “Superman,” the opening cut from their second album, 1997’s Hang-ups , in the wildly popular video game Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. That featured appearance, as well as several popular covers, broadened their reach, and kept them touring steadily even as the radio and music industry shifted in the new millennium.

But back in the early days, that longlasting success felt anything but inevitable.

“No, absolutely not,” Paulson said of whether he imagined doing this 30 years later. “What we were doing was not popular… every other band wanted to be Soundgarden or Weezer. We were doing it because, frankly, we just loved it.”

That DIY ethos still runs deep in Goldfinger’s identity, even as their audience has grown into the hundreds of millions of streams and a multi-generational fanbase. Today, the band boasts more than 1.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, along with a substantial social following that continues to expand as new fans discover their catalog.

“We’ve got like nine albums to choose from at this point,” Paulson said. “Plus a cover EP… and people really seem to dig that

too. So it’s hard putting a set list together. You want to give a little bit of shine to the newer stuff… but you also know people want to hear what they grew up on.”

If there’s one place where Goldfinger’s legacy truly comes alive, it’s on stage.

Songs like “Mabel”—which Paulson admits he initially “didn’t think would become much of anything”—have taken on a life of their own, evolving into crowd singalong-anthems that long since outshined their chart performance.

That sense that anything can happen in the moment remains central to the band’s appeal, and it’s exactly what fans in West Michigan can expect when Goldfinger headlines this summer’s Ska The Lot.

Set for June 27 outside The Intersection in Grand Rapids, the event promises a stacked lineup celebrating ska’s past, present, and future—with Goldfinger firmly positioned as both torchbearers and instigators.

“We’re really looking forward to it,” Paulson said. “A lot of great bands on that bill. And I’ve always loved that part of the country… you guys gave us Motown. You gave us the Stooges. You gave us the MC5. You gave us the White Stripes.”

These days, Goldfinger operates a little differently than in their touring heyday.

“That’s what keeps punk rock exciting for me. I can go see a huge show… but the spirit is different than what it is at a backyard show. That’s where I find a real connection these days.”

For Paulson, it’s also about health and sustainability.

“We still treat a Goldfinger show like a boxing match,” he said. “We take really good care of ourselves… it’s as much a performance as it is playing music. And we still want to be able to do that for years to come.”

That mindset extends beyond the band, too. Whether producing younger artists,

supporting local scenes, or simply showing up at small shows, Paulson remains deeply connected to punk’s grassroots energy.

“That’s what keeps punk rock exciting for me,” he said. “I can go see a huge show… but the spirit is different than what it is at a backyard show. That’s where I find a real connection these days.”

It’s that same spirit—unpolished, passionate, and in their own way

For the past 16 years, Joe Vannucchi—the voice behind From Indian Lakes—has built a steady presence in indie music.

Raised off the grid in California and later shaped by life on the road, his story has unfolded in irreplicable ways.

Revue caught up with Vannucchi to talk about his DIY roots and life beyond music.

What’s something you always wished you were asked during an interview?

One thing that I have kept secret for my entire career is that I’m very obsessed with basketball. It’s pretty much all I care about, but I have almost never talked about it in interviews until recently. When people meet me, they don’t expect it, but I’ve played in a ton of leagues. If I could just do one thing in this world, it would probably be to play basketball.

How did your love of basketball begin?

I come from a big basketball family. We watch games, and I take my parents to games in the Bay Area every season. I used to have a hoop in the dirt at my childhood home, and I used to shoot on that.

What was your childhood home like?

My parents bought 40 acres up near Yosemite when I was really young. The plan was to have a house and have power, but they didn’t have any money. My siblings weren’t really thrilled with the situation, but my personality was always go-with-the-flow. Even to this day, I think the reason why I’m even able to have a career in music for this long without having some kind of explosive moment along the way is just from being cool with whatever is happening and adapting.

What are some of your earliest memories there?

I had a drum set. Someone forgot their guitar at my house, so I started playing that, and I read a lot of books. I walked around outside a lot. We lived by a creek, went to the creek, swam in it. It kind of feels fake, but that was the vibe.

unpredictable—that continues to define Goldfinger. Because for a band that never thought they’d last this long, Nine Lives isn’t only a milestone.

It’s proof that they’re very much still alive. ■

GOLDFINGER – SKA THE LOT

Wsg. Mustard Plug, The Suicide Machines, Five Iron Frenzy, Catch 22, The Boy Detective, sullvn.

The Intersection (outside in the parking lot), 133 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW, Grand Rapids June 27, 3p.m. doors, 4 p.m. show, All Ages, SOLD OUT

Goldfingermusic.com, Sectionlive.com

ON STAGE AND IN THE PAINT: From Indian Lakes

| by Michaela Stock

Coming from such a small town, how did you start getting into a music scene? I had a minivan in high school. I would just fill it up with whoever, and we would go to whatever park, hardcore, or metal show was a show in Fresno after school, which was 40 minutes away.

We were also in bands, and we’d play up in the mountains at these weird places. Our first tour was when I was like 18-ish, 19-ish, and it was just a really bad, self-booked opening for another local band. But then we randomly met the owner of Chain Reaction in Anaheim, who was managing Thrice at the time. He was like, “Hey, you should come play at my venue.” From there, stuff like that just kept kind of happening.

Did you have a breakout moment in your early career?

We toured with this band, The Dangerous Summer, who was like an MTV emo pop punk thing. They just met us in a bar while we were in Southern California playing at Chain Reaction. They played to 800 or so people in most cities. So for us, it was like, “Holy shit, we made it,” you know? But it’s not like we had fans yet. We were still booking basements in between those shows.

It sounds like the DIY community was a big supporter of your career from the start. What were those shows like?

They were floor shows at taco shops in Vegas to 200 kids. Or an outdoor show on a day off on the 4th of July in Indiana, playing in someone’s backyard to like 100 people before fireworks. I don’t know why they were there for us. There is lost text and feelings of some of these places.

How has being a musician evolved for you since then?

We’ve always just felt so uncool because of where we come from. Nowadays, musicians are smartly really selective about what they do and how they’re perceived. But it just never occurred to us at the time, and because of that, it’s hard to explain how things happened for us, especially when I talk to young people in music with social media.

I was just this weird kid who was mega isolated and happened to get into music. It never even occurred to me that one day we would be the cool people on a tour. ■

LA DISPUTE W/ FROM INDIAN LAKES & FLOODING

GLC Live at 20 Monroe May 9, 6:30 p.m. fromindianlakes.com, glcliveat20monroe.com

HOMEGROWN AND HEADLINING:

saturdays at your place

Celebrate Kalamazoo Roots

| by Eric Mitts

With a band name that evokes late-night hangs, and timeless shared experiences, rising Kalamazoo emo trio saturdays at your place (yes, it’s all lowercase) have gone from playing basement shows to touring the world.

Raised in the now legendary house show community in Kalamazoo’s campus neighborhoods, the group will make a massive homecoming of its own when they headline the first-ever “I’d Rather Be In Michigan” Festival on May 29 at Bell’s Beer Garden.

Named after one of the songs off their newest album, these things happen , released last fall, I’d Rather Be In Michigan completely sold out two months in advance. The brand new fest will mark a defining moment not just for the band and all their success, but for the underground community that continues to support them.

The origins of saturdays at your place trace back five years to Western Michigan University, where vocalist/ bassist Esden Stafne met his future bandmates vocalist/ drummer Gabe Wood and guitarist/vocalist Mitch Gulish.

“Gabe and I were in the Multimedia Arts Technology Program,” Stafne said. “Mitch was a chemistry major, and he was the only one of us who graduated. Gabe and I dropped out to go on our first tour.”

Stafne’s musical journey started later than most, and he didn’t pick up a bass until he was 18.

“I played sports in high school, so I never really had time for it,” he said. “I learned it the first year of college, and then when I picked up guitar, I started learning to write songs.”

After briefly attending Grand Valley State University, he found his footing in Kalamazoo’s DIY scene, a network that would ultimately define the band’s trajectory.

“What I learned quickly is that the house show scene in Kalamazoo is a thriving one,” Stafne said. “One of the first friends I made asked me to play bass with him in his band. That’s how I met the other guys.”

Feeling the band’s chemistry right away, he pushed for them to play as many shows as possible and meet as many bands as they could from other cities, so they could play show elsewhere as well.

“I told the guys that we just need to go as hard as we can for three to five years, and we could build something,” he said. “Five years later, it’s paid off way more than any of us expected.”

That vision carried them from early recordings to national tours, with their debut album, something worth celebrating arriving quickly in 2021, and their breakthrough EP, 2023’s always cloudy , racking up millions of steams online.

But that rapid success did not come without growing pains.

“Once the lineup came into place, and we had a few songs, we had big goals in mind,” Stafne said. “When we started growing, we quickly shifted into a business mindset… after a while, that can hurt the art. So when we made our last album, we had to get that out of our minds, and just enjoy making the music.”

That renewed focus shapes their second full-length album, these things happen , a record that expands their signature mix of twinkling guitars and emotionally direct songwriting into something more reflective and fully realized.

Inspired in part by Paul Thomas Anderson’s 1999 film “Magnolia,” the album leans into life’s unpredictability— less about answers, more about understanding.

“It’s a pretty surreal experience,” Stafne said. “At times, writing music is therapeutic for me, so it’s pretty crazy to get to hear people singing the songs and telling me stories

of how certain songs personally helped them through their tough times. I usually tell them how I was going through something similar when I wrote the music, so it makes a lot of sense that they relate.”

Support from Nashville emo band Free Throw helped them take the next step, with Stafne saying they taught him a lot about how the music industry works, and how to navigate touring.

Touring nonstop did present one last hurdle for the band.

“I was the last one to quit my job in spring of 2024,” Stafne said. “We were on our first full US tour… after the first show in Ottawa, we decided to pull the trigger on our first headliner… at that point we were all fully committed to making this our lives.”

That commitment has taken saturdays at your place far beyond Michigan. Their recent European headlining run earlier this spring revealed just how far their music has traveled.

“Before this year, we had been to the UK a few times supporting other bands, but we had never been to Europe,” Stafne said. “When we decided to do our first headliner over there, we really didn’t know what to expect. The response was overwhelmingly positive… The people are so nice, they buy us beer, and they sing the guitar riffs in a way that makes it feel like a soccer game.”

Leading up to the triumphant headlining slot at I’d Rather Be In Michigan, the band will have just wrapped a run of shows opening for Hot Mulligan in Australia, before preparing to join them and Joyce Manor, on a US summer tour.

“We like playing Michigan, so we try to make it special,” Stafne said about coming how for such a special show. “If we’re gonna play our hometown, we want it to be an event. Kalamazoo deserves the best possible show we can give them.”

At its core, the festival reflects the same sense of connection that defines the band.

“When you are touring, you make friends with a lot of people that live far away from you,” Stafne said. “So this is an excuse for us to bring our friends to us… We also tried our best to have as many Michigan bands as possible.

“At the end of the day, I just hope people have fun,” he added. “Our shows feel like community… Hopefully everyone leaves feeling that sense of community.”

For Stafne, that feeling is inseparable from the place that started it all for him

“I’m proud to live in Michigan,” he said. “I’ve seen a lot of places at this point, and there’s no place like home. Kalamazoo is my favorite city in the country.”

With the first year selling out so fast, will the festival become a summer staple in Kalamazoo for years to come?

“We’ve definitely talked about that as a possibility,” Stafne said. “I would love to keep it going. We’ll see what the future holds.”

For now, though, the show stands as both a celebration and a culmination—a reminder that sometimes, the biggest moments still feel like hanging out at a friend’s place, long after the rest of the world has taken notice. ■

Kickstand Productions presents:

I’D RATHER BE IN MICHIGAN

Saturdays at your place, Harrison Gordon, Worry Club, Liquid Mike, Finalbossfight!, No Problemo!, Satsuma Bell’s Beer Garden, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo May 29, 6 p.m., SOLD OUT saturdaysatyourplace.com, bellsbeer.com/events, kickstandproductions.net

Making Sure EVERYONE FEELS WELCOME

| by Allison Kay Bannister

Ican’t remember exactly what I was doing. Maybe it was climbing into a raft to go winter paddling. Or hiking up a steep hill. Or easing myself into a kayak. But whatever activity it was, when I got home, I realized that a lot of what I write about in this column isn’t accessible to everyone. It really hit me that I take so much for granted. Not just in recreation, but in everyday life: maneuvering spaces that only have stairs, getting around in a cramped store, reading instructions in eight-point type. I’m not a person without limitations, but I can do most things with a hand here and a lift there.

When you don’t have firsthand experiences, it can be hard to know where to begin to learn what life is like for those who may not have the same capabilities as you do. I know, for example, that Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park has a pretty robust adaptive sports and universal accessibility undertaking. But I don’t really know all of what that means. Sooo… I asked.

The first person I thought of was my friend Nicholette Driggs, CAPS (Certified Aging-inPlace Specialist). For the last two years, she’s been working for Disability Advocates of Kent County as their “Absolutely Accessible Kent” program’s Business Development Coordinator. I’m not shy about telling you that she’s also a certified badass. Over the years I’ve known her, she has been an advocate not just for herself, but for the broader community in the areas of body positivity, mobility, invisible illness, and broken systems.

Nicholette enthusiastically agreed to chat with me, so I met up with her at her home base located within the Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center off 68th Street in Cutlerville. This massive space was once the South Christian High School campus, and it’s really ideal for supporting their initiatives, as well as other organizations who have offices in the building, including Thresholds, be nice., Autism Alliance of Michigan, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, to name a few.

I really wanted to talk about places and/or organizations that are working to ensure they’re accommodating persons with disabilities, but our conversation really bloomed into something much bigger and better.

We talked about language, specifically noting that person-first identification (e.g., person with a

disability) is often preferred, though ultimately up to the individual. That words like “handicapped” are outdated, and “accessible” is a superior descriptor than “disabled” in parking, bathrooms, and other instances. Oh, and also that wheelchairs are devices for mobility and freedom, not something people are bound to. So many things I’ve never really thought about!

She also noted that 27% of adults in the U.S. have a disability and, therefore, it really affects everyone—especially when considering events that a whole family or group of friends want to attend, but lack of community planning excludes one or more of them.

I really felt this excerpt from a post Nicholette wrote last year, so I thought I’d share it here, with her permission:

“Disability is the largest minority group in the world, that you can join at any time—yet stigma continues to shape how people are treated, included, or overlooked.

Stigma shows up quietly: in assumptions, in lowered expectations, in inaccessible systems. And sometimes it shows up loudly—in the language people use.

Accessibility isn’t extra.

Belonging isn’t accidental.

And the words we choose can either reinforce stigma—or dismantle it.”

See what I mean? Badass.

In short, accessibility shouldn’t be an afterthought. Builders, planners, and organizations should be considering it from the beginning, not fixing it later. And, with that in mind, let’s talk about some of those who are putting in the work.

I mentioned Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park earlier, which is out of purview of Disability Advocates of Kent County, but a good example. In greater Grand Rapids, the City of Kentwood has instituted their IDEA (inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility) policy, resulting in the availability of a range of outdoor accessible activities, such as adaptive kayaking, cycling, and pickleball, as well as barrier-free trails, classes, and more.

In addition to the City of Kentwood, the City of Grand Rapids, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, Experience Grand Rapids, and Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. have also collaborated with Disability Advocates to invest in and improve accessibility in public spaces.

Perhaps most exciting is that Experience Grand Rapids, in partnership with Wheel the World, has developed an AI tool to help tourists and residents alike make their travel and entertainment plans in Kent County with confidence. It offers detailed accessibility information for attractions, activities, restaurants, hotels, and transportation, allowing for more certainty in otherwise often unpredictable circumstances.

You can find it at: experiencegr.com/plan-and-stay/trip-planning/accessibility, and learn more about Disability Advocates at dakc.us. ■

SUMMER BUCKET LIST T

BUCKET LIST

| by Revue Staff

echnically, summer has the most days of any season, but it never quite feels like that.

The bright, toasty months pass by in a flash, which is why planning ahead is so important. Or at the very least, we suggest having some ideas on-hand for when you have that urge to get out and do something summery.

Of course, we love the beach, and that’s a start, but there’s so much more to do in West Michigan summers, both indoors and out. Here are some of our top picks for the season.

Go On A Walk

One of the great joys of summer is the freedom to explore nature without worry of ice, snow or frostbite. There are stunning hiking trails all around West Michigan, and now’s a great time to pick one you’ve never visited and check it out. Who knows what fauna and flora you’ll experience! Here are just a few of our favorites:

Blandford Nature Center/The Highlands: Large nature preserve home to a variety of rescued animals.

Aman Park: Web of woodland trails tucked away off Lake Michigan Drive, filled with a unique ecosystem of blooming flowers and dead trees.

Pickerel Lake: Nature preserve centered around a lake in Rockford.

Seidman Park: More than 400 acres of quiet woods, fields and wetlands in Ada.

Reeds Lake Loop: A 4-mile trail around Reeds Lake in EGR, weaving through the surrounding neighborhoods.

Millennium Park: More than 1,400 acres of rolling terrain, six miles of frontage on the Grand River, nearly 18 miles of trails, and even a beach!

Grand Ravines: Not just a dog park, but miles of lovely trails through the woods and along Grand River.

Al Sabo Land Preserve: For the adventurous, a sprawling preserve with trails that are well-maintained but not well-marked.

Kleinstuck Preserve: Managed by WMU, this unique 48-acre ecosystem includes upland forest, swamp forest, shrub-carr and marshland.

Kal-Haven Trail: A 34-mile long, linear, multi-use trail that links Kalamazoo to South Haven. Especially great for biking!

U-Pick Fruit

You’ll never get fresher fruit than plucking it right off the tree and popping it in your mouth, and there’s something truly magical about waking up early to beat the sun’s heat and heading out to a farm or orchard for just that. Growing up in West Michigan, many of us have memories of steadily harvesting a bucketful of berries to be enjoyed in jams, baked goods and by the handful. Plus, because you’re doing the work, it’s more affordable than the grocery store! Check out places like Ed Dunneback & Girls, DeLange’s, Visser Farms, Grange Fruit Farm, Krupp Farms and more.

Play Ball

Enjoy a Whitecaps Game. A summer evening at an LMCU Ballpark Whitecaps game offers more than baseball. Visitors can enjoy hot dogs, seasonal food creations, cold beer, and between-inning games and singalongs that add to the experience. A home run is a bonus, but the ballpark fun is worth the visit on its own. | milb.com/west-michigan

Michigan is a freshwater playground, filled with lovely rivers of all shapes and sizes, perfect for kayaking (great if you want to be more active), tubing (ideal for kicking back and relaxing), and canoeing (perfect for getting in fights with a loved one). A few suggestions:

AAA Canoe: An easygoing, woodland river that rarely gets deep.

Happy Mohawk: The White River bends and winds through a secluded forest, perfect for kayaking.

Plainwell Kayak: Take your pick between the Kalamazoo River and the lake at Allegan Riverfront Park.

Wisner Rents: The wide, deep, mild Muskegon River seems to be designed for tubing. Just kick back and let the water take you away.

U-Rent-Em Canoe Livery: The Thornapple River in Hastings is great for kayaking, canoeing and tubing.

Discover the Upper Peninsula

Movie Night

Catch a Double Feature at the Drive-In. The Getty Drive-In in Muskegon is a throwback favorite for movie-goers. Gates open at 8:00 p.m., with films starting at dusk. Visitors can grab snacks from the concession stand or order food online for car-side delivery. It’s wise to purchase tickets ahead of time to secure a spot during peak season. | celebrationcinema.com/cinemas/Getty-Drive-In

East Grand Rapids Movies in the Park. Join for FREE family-friendly entertainment on the shores of Reeds Lake. Movies are shown on an inflatable screen at dusk. Come early for the best seat and bring your lawn chair or blanket. This year’s lineup has the live-action How to Train Your Dragon on June 12, Superman (2025) on July 24, Inside Out 2 on Aug. 21, and Remember the Titans on Sep. 19. | eastgrmi.gov

Pre-Party in the Piazza

Studio Park. At Studio Park, they’ll be hosting free hangouts on the piazza (that neat little green space in front of the theater) every Friday, Saturday, and on Acrisure Amphitheater show nights, from 4-9 p.m. Come through for an outdoor bar, music and yard games, along with the local businesses like Leo’s Coney Island, Elsa’s for ice cream, and the Arts Marketplace. | 123 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids | studioparkgr.com

Try a New Beach

Ready for some new lakeside scenery? Lucky for you, the coast of Lake Michigan is full of an endless variety of beaches, whether you want to brave the stairs at Laketown Beach for a more secluded experience, or visit Grand Haven for the kind of beach you see in movies—filled to the brim with people making sandcastles, playing volleyball, cranking tunes and chowing down on boardwalk snacks. Then there’s the Kruse Park Dog Beach for the furry friends, the lengthy Oval Beach giving you access to Saugatuck, the dunes of P.J. Hoffmaster, the luscious scenery of Rosy Mound, and much more!

The natural wonders of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula never disappoint. Families traveling with campers often choose to explore spots like Tahquamenon Falls and Pictured Rocks. Hiking, biking, kayaking, and panoramic views make this an unforgettable summer adventure.

Summer Concerts

Frederik Meijer Gardens Summer Concerts

1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids | meijergardens.org

The annual Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts series brings musicians from around the world to the beautiful outdoor amphitheater of Frederik Meijer Gardens, surrounded by views of gardens and sculpture.

» O.A.R., May 27

» The Wallflowers, June 7

» Sierra Ferrell, June 8

» An Evening with Wilco, June 12

» Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, June 15

» Acoustic Evening with Trey Anastasio, June 17

» Tash Sultana, J une 19

» Pink Martini All-Stars, June 22

» Larkin Poe + The Record Company, June 24

» Little Feat, June 28

Circle Theatre Summer Concert Series

1703 Robinson Rd SE, Grand Rapids | circletheatre.org

In addition to their mainstage plays and musicals, Circle Theatre hosts a concert series every summer made up of talented local singers and musicians performing an evening of hits built around a theme.

» A Family Affair, June 22 & Aug. 17

» Play That Funky Music, June 15 & Aug. 10

» Turn It On Again: The Music of Genesis, May 26 & July 20

» Deja vu: The Music of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, May 18, & July 13

Kentwood Summer Concert Series 4900 Breton SE, Grand Rapids | kentwood.us

Grab a blanket or chair and join the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall for their Summer Concert Series! Concerts take place on Thursday evenings from 6:30-8 p.m. and feature a variety of rotating food trucks every week. Concertgoers are also welcome to bring their own beer or wine. Here’s the lineup:

» Westside Soul Surfers, June 11

» Hurricane Reggae Band, June 18

» Kyle Brown & The Human Condition, June 25

» Tommy B Band, July 9

» In Full Swing, July 16

» The Soul Syndicate, July 23

» Mexicuba, July 30

» On the Fly, Aug. 6

» Asamu Johnson and the Associates of the Blues, Aug. 13

» Pretty Kool, Aug. 20

Delange’s, Millenium Park. COURTESY PHOTOS / Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. PHOTO BY NIC SAGODIC

Calling All Car Lovers

Gilmore Car Museum. Car lovers, history buffs, and families looking for an easy summer day trip will find plenty to explore at the Gilmore Car Museum. Spread across a picturesque campus of historic barns and manicured green space, the museum showcases more than a century of automotive innovation, from gleaming brass-era classics to sleek muscle cars and nostalgic vintage rides. Summer is an especially lively time to visit, with weekend car shows, ride-in events, and seasonal programs that bring the grounds to life. | 865 W. Hickory Road, Hickory Corners | gilmorecarmuseum.org

Lions, Tigers, and... Red Pandas?

John Ball Zoo is a classic, but there’s always something fresh to check out, whether it’s pygmy hippos, the new otter habitat, warthogs and lemurs joining the family, or guided tours and behind-the-scenes experiences. Make sure to look into special zoo adventures like riding camels, taking the zipline, doing the ropes course and getting close with a sloth. | 1300 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids | jbzoo.org

Year-Round Fun

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park. Given its previous name of Winter Sports Complex, you might not yet realize this park is open year-round! Beyond the famous luge (the only track of its kind in North America to run through summer), there’s also ziplining, rock climbing, archery, and Trail Quest, a treasure hunt-style game. Get a season pass so you can go back again and again, or they also have package deals and individual tickets. | 462 N Scenic Dr., Muskegon | msports.org

Bike, Walk, Run

Cannonsburg Ski Area. Just about every skier and snowboarder in West Michigan got their start at Cannonsburg, but in the summer, everything changes: The Sweet Spot opens up, offering ice cream, Dole Whips, microbrews, and Taco Tuesdays all summer. It’s perfect for refueling after a lovely trek on Cannonsburg’s 11 miles of hilly trails through the woods. Bike, walk, run—whatever you like! | 6800 Cannonsburg Rd. NE, Belmont | cannonsburg.com

Cruise the River

Set sail in style aboard a vintage 1950s-era motorboat with Retro Boat Rentals. Their fleet includes colorful, retro-styled boats perfect for two to four people, as well as pontoons, donuts, and Duffy boats for groups. Guests can cruise along the Kalamazoo River, bring a pup along for the ride, and enjoy food and drinks on the patio at The Old Boat House after docking. | retroboatrentals.com

Hit the Greens

If you’ve never tried golfing before, now’s the season to give it a swing. Head to a public course for 18 holes, or consider getting your practice in at a spot like Gimme’s Par & Grill in downtown Grand Rapids. Here, you can hone your technique without having to run around gathering all your balls, thanks to their cutting-edge simulators, alongside beer and a burger. Or if you want to start even smaller, check out Big Mini Putt Club for indoor mini-golf in a bar setting.

TreeRunner Grand Rapids Adventure Park. Tucked behind the Celebration Cinema North parking lot, you’ll find a vast complex among the wooded surroundings. With dozens of obstacles and ziplines to traverse, TreeRunner features a variety of trails, heights and difficulty levels. There’s a brief training before you get started, and you’re harnessed the entire time, making it suitable for beginners and beyond. | 2121 Celebration Dr. NE, Grand Rapids | treerunnerparks.com/grandrapids ■

SOUTHWEST LAKESHORE I

HOLLAND

Travel Guide

t’s the perfect season to enjoy all of the delightful towns and cities along the West Michigan lakeshore.

Between the beaches, the boutiques, the breweries and beyond, there’s easily enough fun to fill multiple trips (you could even turn it into a staycation with a cozy B&B). While we can’t cover the entire coast here, here are a few of our suggestions starting at Holland and heading south.

Believe it or not, Holland is not just the setting of Holland (2025), starring Nicole Kidman. While that fun but messy direct-tostreaming movie may be of debatable quality, it did undeniably capture the unique historic charm of this beloved beachside city. You can stroll the brick-paved sidewalks of the vibrant downtown, where tulip motifs and Dutch gables frame boutique shops, cozy cafés and art galleries. Springtime visitors flock to the world-famous Tulip Time Festival (May 1-10), but Holland shines year-round with the 8th Street Shopping District

Check out attractions like Nelis’ Dutch Village —with cultural demonstrations, tasty food, a petting farm, and easygoing modern and historic rides—and Windmill Island Gardens , the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the country. If you’re looking for even more activities and games, The Lost City is home to laser tag, an arcade, mini bowling and indoor mini golf.

That’s all not to mention the sandy stretches of Holland State Park, where Big Red Lighthouse offers a postcard-perfect sunset. Or visit the Outdoor Discovery Center to enjoy local wildlife and walking trails. For drinks, you can visit a wide variety of spots, including New Holland , Brewery 4 Two 4 and Obstacle No. 1 . For food, check out Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant , Crazy Horse Steak House and Hops at 84 East

SAUGATUCK/DOUGLAS

Heading south from Holland, you’ll reach Saugatuck/Douglas, a hip yet charming community along Lake Michigan. One of our top recommendations for the area is the Saugatuck Dune Rides , if you’ve never tried it. This 40-minute, open-buggy ride showcases the area’s natural beauty while offering plenty of action with twists, turns, and steep drops. Along the way, your guide will provide interesting info about the history, culture, and folklore of the area.

For more nature, you can climb the 282 steps up Mount Baldhead Park for a panoramic view of the harbor and shoreline; take a scenic walk through the dunes, wetlands, and shoreline at Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area ; or ride the historic handcranked Saugatuck Chain Ferry, one of the last of its kind in the country.

At this point, you’ve worked up a thirst and appetite, so it’s time to check out one of the area’s beloved restaurants, like The Southerner , Pennyroyal Café & Provisions , or Everyday People Café , along with a bar like Phil’s Bar & Grille or Wally’s Bar and Grill

Make sure to also visit Saugatuck Center for the Arts , a renowned art museum, market and theater bringing in innovative art year-round.

FENNVILLE

Just a bit south and further inland is Fennville, trading beach crowds for a slower, more pastoral kind of summer, marked by farm stands, orchards, and winding country roads. Come hungry. At Salt of the Earth , wood-fired cooking and seasonal ingredients turn rustic dining into something memorable, while Crane’s Pie Pantry serves up slices of nostalgia with its legendary fruit pies (and yes, you’ll want to take a whole one to go). Then, stretch out for an afternoon tasting at one of the local vineyards, like Fenn Valley, a longtime staple with rolling views, or Modales , one of Michigan’s only Certified Organic wineries.

SOUTH HAVEN

Heading down the coast, you’ll find South Haven, a port city. If not one of the area’s 10 public beaches or the iconic South Haven Lighthouse , your first stop might be Lakeside Social , a vibrant bowling center that also has 18 holes of outdoor mini golf, karaoke nights, and plenty to eat and drink.

Then you can learn about Great Lakes history and step aboard historic vessels at the Michigan Maritime Museum , take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Kal-Haven Trail State Park, and wander the shops and galleries of Phoenix Street. For craft beer, check out South Haven Brewpub , Three Blondes Brewing and Harbor Light Brewery. For dining, consider grabbing a famous burger and onion rings at Clementine’s

ST. JOSEPH (& BEYOND)

St. Joseph has a vibrant arts scene, including the entirely free Krasl Art Center (home to over 41 sculptures) and the annual Art Fair on the Bluff (July 11-12 this year), along with the Box Factory for the Arts , a former factory now used as a multi-use arts facility.

In the great outdoors, you can stroll the bluff-top paths and take in sweeping Lake Michigan views at Lake Bluff Park , especially beautiful at sunset. Enjoy the hand-carved horses on the nostalgic Silver Beach Carousel , cool off at the Whirlpool Compass Fountain , and enjoy some iconic slices at Silver Beach Pizza , all right by the popular Silver Beach County Park. For drinks, head south on 196 for some brewery hopping at the fantastically fun Watermark Brewing , the lively Livery, the boldly innovative Transient Artisan Ales , and Haymarket , known for superb pizza. Nearby, you’ll also find Out There , a stellar wine bar and retail shop located in a historic 1920’s Shell service station. ■

/// DINING & DRINKING

PATIO SEASON

in West Michigan

| by Josh Veal

ARCHIVAL BREWING

6266 W River Dr. NE, Belmont

Known for brews plucked from history, Archival also has no shortage of outdoor space, between its large biergarten and wraparound, covered deck. The wide open space is not only family-friendly but dogfriendly as well, hosting fire pits as well as yard games like corn hole and bocce ball.

BLUE WATER

5180 Northland Dr. NE, Grand Rapids

Blue Water sits right on the edge of Versluis Lake. The tables here at this Gilmore institution overlook the serene water with a touch of class, complete with a koi pond. The patio is also loaded with flowers and plants, including a garden that contributes to the meals you eat.

ROSE’S

550 Lakeside Dr. SE, East Grand Rapids

Another Gilmore establishment, Rose’s is practically famous for its lakeside deck. In the summer, you can enjoy classic dishes and drinks while watching people boat, kayak, fish and more out on lovely Reeds Lake.

THIRD

NATURE BREWING & EASTERN KILLE DISTILLERY

7733 Childsdale Ave. NE, Rockford | 7755 Childsdale Ave. NE, Rockford

Third Nature Brewing and Eastern Kille Distillery are sort of cousins alongside the extensive White Pine Trail, both hosting huge outdoor areas lined by trees. Head here to enjoy great food (Third Nature spotlights handhelds, Eastern Kille focuses on pizza), beer and cocktails, along with fire pits, yard games and play areas for the kids.

CEDAR

SPRINGS BREWING COMPANY

95 N Main St. NE, Cedar Springs

This Cedar Springs hotspot is known for its German-influenced fare and brews. They have a covered—and heated—patio/bier garden for cooler weather that opens up as warmer days roll in, with casual bier hallstyle counter service. Keep an eye out for live music and special events as well.

THE DECK

1601 Beach St., Muskegon

That’s right, it’s time to eat and drink in the sun. After so many frosty months, many of the restaurants and bars are bursting out onto the sidewalk, into back patios, and across wide open decks. And thanks to our trusty lakes Great and small, more than a few of these watering holes are waterfront.

While by no means an exhaustive list, here are 15 top suggestions.

The Deck is the ultimate beach patio, with decks that wrap around the restaurant and sprawl out toward the shores of Lake Michigan. The upper deck is full service for food and beverages, while the lower deck is self-serve. There are swings, games, and volleyball, as well as live music at select times.

NEW HOLLAND BREWING – THE KNICKERBOCKER

417 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids

Much like everything else in New Holland’s Grand Rapids location, The Knickerbocker’s semienclosed patio is huge, with a large screen for watching sports and loads of seating to spread out.

THE FRIESIAN GASTRO PUB

720 Michigan St., Grand Rapids

Ever since opening, Friesian has made great use of its rooftop patio. Whether you’re there relaxing in the dusk on a nice weeknight evening or enjoying the morning sun of a Sunday brunch, Friesian’s patio is a step above.

HANCOCK

1157 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids

Hancock’s turf lawn perfectly fits its retro historic vibes. Eating fried chicken and sides while sipping a slushy cocktail in the sun on perfectly green “grass”? That’s the dream. It’s big enough to fit quite a few tables without sprawling across Wealthy Street. While we’re at it, the nearby Donkey Taqueria and The Winchester have sizeable patios too.

FARMHAUS CIDER CO.

5025 Stanton St., Hudsonville

Nestled away in the woods, Farmhaus features communal-style picnic tables and pockets of smaller seating all around. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy nature while sipping on craft ciders. They don’t serve food directly, but you’ll find a rotating selection of local food trucks nearly every day.

BOSTWICK LAKE INN

8521 Belding Rd NE, Rockford

This four-season deck overlooks the 221 acre Bostwick Lake. Sit back and dig into a smoked pork tenderloin as you watch people fish, swim and boat. Want to dip your toes in? Take your cocktail down to the sandy beach.

BOATWERKS WATERFRONT RESTAURANT

216 Van Raalte Ave., Holland

With a patio and bar area that was renovated in 2020, Boatwerks added even more seating for diners to enjoy the views of Lake Macatawa, also making use of big garage doors. You don’t even necessarily need a car to get there—they have spots for boaters to pull in and tie up while dining!

BELL’S ECCENTRIC CAFÉ

355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo

This is a magical place. The substantial Bell’s Beer Garden feels natural and intimate thanks to plenty of greenery, creative seating and a variety of spaces. Whether you want to stand around a high-top, bring a group to the many benches, or sit a small table, there are plenty of options.

THE SOVENGARD

1232 Bridge St. NW, Grand Rapids

The Sovengard’s biergarten at the original location was iconic, with its herb wall, outdoor bar and lively events, and they’ve brought that same lovely energy (and spacious seating) over to the new spot.

UNDERGROUND LOUNGE

443 Bridge St. NW #1, Grand Rapids

Speaking of Sovengard’s original spot, it’s now occupied by Broad Leaf’s Underground Lounge, and just as worthy of a visit. They’re serving up creative cocktails, craft beer and tacos from Taqueria Chilango. ■

FESTIVAL GUIDE

2026

| by Josh Veal

West Michigan is full of festivals this year, with dozens of options covering everything from the mainstream to the obscure. We have fests for art, food, music, beer, culture and so much more. Here’s our list for the year ahead.

ECLECTIC

START OF SUMMER CELEBRATION

Rockford | June 4-7

rockfordmichamber.com

ROCK THE BLOCK STREET FESTIVAL

Grand Rapids | June 13 lincup.org/rock-the-block

HARBORFEST

South Haven | June 19-20 southhavenharborfest.com

EASTOWN BIZARRE BAZAAR

Grand Rapids | June 20

FIELD OF FLIGHT AIR SHOW & BALLOON FESTIVAL

Battle Creek | July 1-5 fieldofflight.com

Dozens of hot air balloons from around the world join forces with hypersonic jets, food, fair rides and other family fun.

RIVERWALK FEST

Lowell | July 9-11 riverwalkfestival.org

GRAND HAVEN

COAST GUARD FESTIVAL

Grand Haven | July 24-August 2 coastguardfest.org

Honoring the men and women of the United States Coast Guard, this massive annual festival celebrates with ship tours, live music, food, a carnival and street dancing throughout Grand Haven.

CONFLUENCE FESTIVAL

Grand Rapids | September TBD confluencefest.com

FESTIVAL FRIDAYS

MUSIC

BUTTERMILK JAMBOREE

Delton | June 19-21 circlepinescenter.org

A three-day showcase of regional musicians, Buttermilk benefits the Circle Pines Center, a nonprofit working toward peace, social justice and environmental cooperation.

ELECTRIC FOREST

Rothbury | June 25-28 electricforest.com

SMILING ACRES

MUSIC FESTIVAL

Trufant | June 26-28 smilingacres.org

UPHEAVAL FESTIVAL

Grand Rapids | July 17-18 upheavalfest.com

WALK THE BEAT

Grand Haven | Aug. 8 walkthebeat.org

BREAKAWAY

MUSIC FESTIVAL

Grand Rapids | Aug. 14-15 breakawayfestival.com

Breakaway throws a huge party b bringing globally recognized hiphop and electronic talent to local cities. This year’s event at Belknap Park features FISHER, Subtronics, Two Friends and many more.

WHEATLAND

MUSIC FESTIVAL

Remus | Sept. 11-13 wheatlandmusic.org

Kalamazoo | 2nd Fridays foodtruckrallykz.com

BEER & WINE

SUDS ON THE SHORE

Ludington | Aug. 15 | sudsontheshore.com

BURNING FOOT BEER FESTIVAL

Muskegon | Aug. 29 | burningfoot.beer

CULTURAL

GRAND RAPIDS ASIAN-PACIFIC FESTIVAL

Grand Rapids | June 12-14 | grapf.org

The annual Asian-Pacific Festival celebrates as much Asian and Pacific-Islander culture as it possibly can in one weekend. You’ll find traditional attires, martial arts demonstrations, fashion shows, Luau and much more, including (of course) all kinds of Asian-Pacific food.

HOLLAND WATERFRONT CELTIC FESTIVAL & HIGHLAND GAMES

Holland | June 26-27 | hollandcelticfestival.org

This festival goes out all out in celebrating Celtic culture every year, with nearly 30 performances by Irish & Celtic bands, a pipe and drum band, and Irish & Scottish dancers. Come on Friday for a 21+ event, with plenty to eat and drink—or Saturday for an all-ages day, which includes the Highland Games with feats of strength like the caber toss and Braemar Stone put.

BLACK ARTS FESTIVAL

Kalamazoo |

Support Black art, literature, businesses and people with this celebration full of music, dancing, food and much more.

DANISH FESTIVAL

Greenville |

MICHIGAN IRISH MUSIC FESTIVAL

Muskegon |

Everyone and everything is a little bit Irish here. Indulge in Irish cuisine, shop Irish goods and learn about the culture, all while dancing and singing along to incredible music.

After 10 incredible years on Pere Marquette Beach, Burning Foot Beer is beginning a new chapter at Heritage Landing in downtown Muskegon. Expect more space, expanded art installations, new interactive elements, and the best craft beer around.

OKTOBERFEST GR

Grand Rapids | Sept. 25-26 | oktoberfestgr.com

GRAND RAPIDS INTERNATIONAL WINE, BEER & FOOD FESTIVAL

Grand Rapids | Nov. 20-21 | showspan.com/grw

Now in its 19th year, this Festival has established itself as Michigan’s annual tasting event, measured by more than 1,200 wines, beers, ciders and spirits from around the world, along with creations from area restaurants.

Black Arts Festival, Breakaway Music Festival, Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival, Greater Grand Rapids Pride Festival.

COURTESY

PHOTOS

FOOD

TASTE OF MUSKEGON

Muskegon | June 12-13 | tasteofmuskegon.org

All the best food and family fun fills Muskegon’s Hackley Park, including beer, powerboats, music, bounce houses and more.

NATIONAL ASPARAGUS FESTIVAL

Hart | June 12-14 | nationalasparagusfestival.org

CEREAL FESTIVAL

Battle Creek | June 13 | bcfestivals.com

TACO & TEQUILA FEST

Grand Rapids | June 27 | grtacoandtequilafest.com

NATIONAL CHERRY FESTIVAL

Traverse City | July 4-11 | cherryfestival.org

NATIONAL BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL

South Haven | Aug. 6-9 | blueberryfestival.com

RESTAURANT WEEK GR

Grand Rapids | November TBA | experiencegr.com

PRIDE

PRIDE IN THE PARK

Saugatuck/Douglas | May 31-June 6 Saugatuck.com/pride-week

KALAMAZOO PRIDE

Kalamazoo | June 5-6 outfrontkzoo.org/pride

MUSKEGON PRIDE

Muskegon | June 6 muskpride.org

GRAND HAVEN PRIDE

Grand Haven | June 13 ghpride.org

GREATER GRAND RAPIDS PRIDE FESTIVAL

Grand Rapids | June 20-21 grpride.org

Celebrating the LGBTQ community, this year’s Pride Festival will have all the music, performers, vendors, rainbows and other fun of years prior, at Calder Plaza and the surrounding streets.

HOLLAND PRIDE

Holland | June 27 holland.org/pride-festival

ARTS

KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS FAIR

Kalamazoo | June 5-6 kiarts.org

This annual start to summer in Kalamazoo began more than 70 years ago and it’s back once again, featuring the work of more than 130 fine artists, music, food trucks and a beer garden filling Bronson Park.

JAPANESE ANIMATION FILM & ART EXPO

Grand Rapids | June 5-7 jafax.org

WEST MICHIGAN CHALK ART FESTIVAL

Grand Rapids | June 19-21 grandrapids.tanger.com

SAND SCULPTURE CONTEST

Grand Haven | June 20 visitgrandhaven.com

GR LIT FEST

Grand Rapids | June 22-29 grlitfest.com

This free, seven-day literary festival features Michigan-based authors, discussion panels, reader gatherings, book signings, and more, including an Adult Book Fair at 6th Street Hall on June 28.

GRAND HAVEN ART FESTIVAL

Grand Haven | June 26-28 grandhavenchamber.org

LAKESHORE ART FESTIVAL

Muskegon | June 27-28 lakeshoreartfestival.org

The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of fine art, handcrafted goods, music, food, and fun in beautiful Downtown Muskegon. Experience nearly 250 juried fine art and specialty craft exhibitors, a Children’s Lane, artisan food market, street performers, interactive art stations, and so much more!

SOUTH HAVEN ART FAIR

South Haven | July 4-5 southhavenarts.org

WEST SHORE ART FAIR

Ludington | July 4-5 visitludington.com

MICHIGAN FIBER FESTIVAL

Allegan | Aug. 12-16 michiganfiberfestival.info

ARTS AND DRAFTS FESTIVAL

Norton Shores | Aug. 15 nortonshoresparksandrecreation.com

ARTPRIZE

Grand Rapids | Sept. 17-Oct. 3 artprize.org ■

FreshPicks:

West Michigan FARMERS MARKETS

| by Revue Staff

As vibrant spring vegetables and early summer fruits find their way into the sun, it’s the perfect time for farmers market season to begin in earnest.

Produce is never better than when it’s in-season, and at farmers markets, just about everything is. That’s not to mention the pasture-raised meats, quality dairy, fresh-cut flowers, homemade jam, hand-thrown pottery, and everything else the markets have to offer.

Beyond just location, each farmers market around West Michigan has something a little different in terms of vendors, activities and events, so check out our annual roundup here, along with a few tips and tricks if you’re a first-timer.

KENTWOOD FARMERS MARKET

4900 Breton Rd. SE, Grand Rapids | Kentwood.us/farmers_market.php

Boasting a different fun theme each week, Kentwood’s market on Mondays— note the change from Thursdays—from June 8-August 17, giving you a reason to keep coming back (aside from weekly fresh produce, of course). Some of this year’s themes include Summer Solstice, Bike Night, World Cup Week and Picnic in the Park. Head to the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall every Monday 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. for a lineup of produce, breads, microgreens, and more.

MUSKEGON FARMERS MARKET

242 W. Western Ave., Muskegon | muskegonfarmersmarket.com

With more than 150 stalls, food trucks, live bands, kids activities, and longtime vendors who’ve been part of the scene for decades, Muskegon Farmers Market is one of the largest in the state. It’s also a bustling hub of flavors, crafts and community. Visit in the summer and fall on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m., and check out the sprawling flea market for some treasure hunting on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

FARMERS MARKET GAME PLAN

A little strategy goes a long way when navigating dozens of vendors.

SCOPE IT OUT FIRST. Check the vendor map ahead of time—or do a quick lap when you arrive—so you know where to double back for your must-haves.

SHOP THE SEASON. Ask vendors which produce is at its peak right now, then build your meals around those fresh flavors.

COME PREPARED. Bring a sturdy tote (or two), and consider some cooler packs. Bonus points for smaller bags to keep things organized and reduce waste. BE MINDFUL OF YOUR HANDS Avoid rummaging through produce. You won’t find “better” picks on the bottom, here.

EMBRACE THE DRIZZLE. A light rain can mean smaller crowds, first pick of the best goods, and extra appreciation from vendors.

FULTON STREET MARKET

1145 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids | fultonstreetmarket.org

A Grand Rapids staple since 1922, Fulton Street Market is open year-round and packed with seasonal produce, handmade goods, and local flavor. Saturdays are like one big weekly party, complete with food trucks, live music, and well over 100 booths of rotating vendors and family farms. Come winter, it keeps going with a “second season” featuring indoor vendors and holiday cheer. As we step into the main season, join the bustling market on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., running until October.

HOLLAND FARMERS MARKET

150 W. 8th St., Holland | hollandfarmersmarket.com

Along Eighth Street Market Place in Holland, the farmers market takes over every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Throughout the season (from May 13 to October), the Holland Farmers Market offers a wide variety of plants and flowers for your home and garden, the freshest fruits and vegetables you can buy, and farm-raised meat and eggs, along with irresistible baked goods, specialty food products, and ready-to-eat foods made with the highest quality ingredients. Plus, they have free activities for kids on Wednesdays!

KALAMAZOO FARMERS MARKET

1204 Banks St., Kalamazoo | pfcmarkets.com

With over 100 local farmers, food businesses and artisans every week, the Kalamazoo Farmers Market has no shortage of options for everyone. Open every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. through November, plus Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., you also have plenty of opportunities to visit. PLUS, the lively Night Markets held every Third Thursday from June to September, 5-10 p.m., with live music, food trucks and artisanal goods.

ADA FARMERS MARKET

7239 Thornapple Drive Dr. SE, Ada | adafarmersmarket.com

Head to The Community Church in Ada every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a family-friendly market experience. Running from June 2 to October 27, enjoy more than 35 vendors and engaging children’s activities through the “Kids in the Market” program. Live buskers add to the vibrant atmosphere.

ROCKFORD FARMERS MARKET

181 S. Main St., Rockford | rockford.mi.us

Visit the new city lot behind the Rockford Post Office every Saturday from May 2 to October 31, with the market open 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. This market proudly participates in the SNAP program, offering significant discounts through the “Double Up Food” program. Take advantage of this opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy fresh, affordable groceries. Plus, downtown Rockford itself is full of boutiques, restaurants and bars to enjoy!

GRAND HAVEN FARMERS MARKET

301 N. Harbor Drive, Grand Haven | facebook.com/grandhavenfarmersmarket

Set alongside the waterfront at Chinook Pier, Grand Haven’s market is full of local charm and lakeside vibes. With fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods, it’s a perfect pairing with a morning walk on the boardwalk or a stop at a nearby café. Explore Saturdays starting May 2 through July, with Wednesdays starting in June. But note that in August, the market is moving to Mulligan’s Hollow! ■

COLOR IN FULL BLOOM:

Chihuly Transforms Meijer

Gardens

Dale Patrick Chihuly, born in 1941, was a teenager when his father died of a heart attack. He started running with a bad crowd. His earliest work in glass, he’s joked, was shattering streetlights, an act that led to his arrest. After graduating high school, he was determined to leave formal education behind. But his mother insisted, so he enrolled in college. In 1961, he started studying glass.

A car accident in 1976 cost Chihuly sight in one eye; still, he continued to blow glass. But after a 1979 bodysurfing accident dislocated his right shoulder, he has left the physical work to others, instead providing guidance and direction to those who work to achieve his visions.

The decision to go to college and study glass planted the seeds for a career which has flourished to such an extent that Chihuly has become a household name. His work can be found in the permanent collections of over 200 museums across 26 countries, and on nearly every island in Japan. From 19992000, a temporary exhibition in Jerusalem’s Citadel drew over 1.3 million visitors, setting a world record. His Fiori di Como, hanging in the lobby of Las Vegas’s Bellagio hotel, weighs over 50,000 pounds and is the largest glass sculpture ever made.

From May 2nd through November 1st, CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens will be on display at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. It’s one of only two 2026 exhibitions of the artist’s work, and the only one in America.

This will be the third Chihuly exhibition to take place at Meijer Gardens, following a 2002 indoor exhibition and a 2010 exhibition held outdoors. That represents a significant relationship; only one other institution has been allowed to hold three exhibitions.

During CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens, his art can be experienced both indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, there will be 12 large-scale installations sited throughout the campus, while the indoor galleries will display more than 80 glass pieces along with 40 related drawings. This will be the largest exhibition of his works to have taken place at Meijer Gardens. It’s expected to draw over a million attendees.

Suzanne Ramljak, Vice President of Collections & Curatorial Affairs, said, “There are so few household names in sculpture. He has major popular recognition and appeal.” She attributes part of that appeal to the material he’s chosen to work with: glass itself, with its unique material properties. “It’s hard not to like glass,” she said.

Chihuly’s work takes the material and, drawing on traditional techniques while leaving room for innovation, stretches that material in scale and mass. “It’s unprecedented,

| by John Kissane

what he’s done,” she said. “He’s brought glass into a whole new dimension, taking this very attractive material and making it into something new.” Before Chihuly, placing glass sculptures in outdoor gardens wasn’t done; we associate glass with fragility, and the outdoors can be unforgiving.

The outdoor pieces will allow garden attendees to view his work at its most expansive. There will be a 30-foot tower; in the Japanese Gardens, two glass boats will sit in the water. In contrast to the grand scale of the outdoor pieces, smaller, more intimate objects will be viewable inside the gallery exhibition CHIHULY: Radiant Forms. To get a full sense of the broadness of his work, you’ll need to experience both.

Asked what opportunities the public will have to learn about the process behind his work, Suzanne said while there won’t be a full hot shop, there will be related workshops and programs. A 10-minute film, which will run continuously, covers Chihuly’s career, showing him in his shop; it’s a wonderful portrait of Chihuly as a working artist. Full details as to classes, workshops, and programs will be made available on Meijer Gardens’ website.

Chihuly no longer travels, but Britt Cornett, the artist’s director of exhibitions, will visit Grand Rapids.

“To explain why Chihuly’s work is special—why it should be celebrated and enjoyed—it’s important to realize that it’s both traditional and innovative,” Ramljak said. “He’s been engaged with history, not just the history of glass but more generally of art.” She points to his engagement with other cultural traditions, including indigenous American art and Japanese craftsmanship.

“And he’s done new things with that knowledge. Truly, it’s thrilling. His art captures and contains light and color in this really beautiful way. Chihuly has said that he never met a color he didn’t like. That’s clear when you look at his work.”

Through the interplay of light and shadow, and of transparency and opacity, and through decisions involving color, line, and scale, Dale Chihuly has built one of the great bodies of work in American art. CHIHULY at Meijer Gardens, the most ambitious of the Gardens’ three exhibitions of his work, promises to be nothing short of limpid delight.

Meijer Gardens will be open until dusk on select evenings throughout the run of the exhibition. ■

CHIHULY AT MEIJER GARDENS

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids May 2-Nov. 1 meijergardens.org/chihuly

MAY/JUNE

ARTSCalendar

| by Revue Staff

ACTORS THEATRE

160 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids actorstheatregrandrapids.org

CULLUD WATTAH,  May 7-16

AVENUE FOR THE ARTS

106 Gallery

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

FIRST FRIDAYS, May 7, June 5

BROADWAY GRAND RAPIDS

122 Lyon St. NW, Grand Rapids grandrapids.broadway.com

THE OUTSIDERS, June 9-14

CIRCLE THEATRE

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

1703 Robinson Rd SE, Grand Rapids circletheatre.org

FOREVER PLAID, May 14-30

LEND ME A TENOR, June 11-27

FARMERS ALLEY THEATRE KALAMAZOO

221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo  farmersalleytheatre.com  INTO THE WOODS, May 28-June 7

FESTIVAL PLAYHOUSE

129 Thompson St., Kalamazoo festivalplayhouse.kzoo.edu

WILLIAM WYCHERLY’S THE COUNTRY WIFE, May 14-17

FRANKE CENTER FOR THE ARTS

214 E Mansion St., Marshall thefranke.org

TITO PUENTE JR., May 23

FREDERIK MEIJER GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK

1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids meijergardens.org

CHIHULY AT MEIJER GARDENS, May 2-Nov. 1

MICHIGAN ALL-STATE BONSAI SHOW, May 9

GRAND RAPIDS ART MUSEUM

101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids artmuseumgr.org

THE MATTER OF AWE: LANDSCAPES IN ART, Through Aug. 16

DECADENT SPIRIT: FRENCH ART AT TURN OF THE CENTURY, May 26-Sept. 6, 2026

GRAND RAPIDS BALLET

341 Ellsworth Ave. SW, Grand Rapids  grballet.com

IN THE COUNTENANCE OF KINGS, May 1-3 SPRING SHOWCASE, May 29-30

GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE

30 N. Division Ave., Grand Rapids  grct.org

DIAL M FOR MURDER, Through May 3 LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL, June 5-28

GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY

300 Ottawa Ave. NW Ste. 100, Grand Rapids  grsymphony.org

SOUNDS OF LAUREL CANYON: 60S & 70S ROCK LEGENDS, May 1-2 ORCHESTRAL FIREWORKS!, May 8-9

JEWISH THEATRE GRAND RAPIDS

2727 Michigan NE, Grand Rapids  jtgr.org

WIESENTHAL, Through May 3 GAMES, June 11-21

KALAMAZOO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

359 Kalamazoo Mall Ste. 100, Kalamazoo kalamazoosymphony.com

90S THROWBACKS, May 20 BEATLES IN THE BEERGARDEN, June 17

KALAMAZOO CIVIC THEATRE

329 S. Park St., Kalamazoo  kazoocivic.com

THE PRODUCERS, May 1-17

KALAMAZOO INSTITUTE OF ARTS

314 South Park St., Kalamazoo kiarts.org

FUTURE NOW: VIRTUAL SNEAKERS TO CUTTING-EDGE KICKS,  Through June 7 FROM COBALT TO INDIGO: THE POWER OF BLUE IN EAST ASIA, Through July 12 FOR THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE: AMERICA AT 250, June 27-Oct. 4

LOWELLARTS

223 W. Main St., Lowell lowellartsmi.org

TRILOGY, May 2-July 11

MILLER AUDITORIUM

2200 Auditorium Dr, Kalamazoo millerauditorium.com

BEETLEJUICE, May 8-10

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 2, May 16

MUSKEGON CIVIC THEATRE

425 W. Western Ave., Muskegon  muskegoncivictheatre.org

ANASTASIA,  Apr. 30-May 3

MUSKEGON MUSEUM OF ART

296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon  muskegonartmuseum.org

POW! THE ART OF COMICS, Through May 17

LET’S PICNIC: THE KNOP COLLECTION OF HERMAN MILLER POSTERS, May 7-Sept. 13

MATERIAL WORLD: TEN WOMEN, May 21-Aug. 23

HERSTORY OF ANIMATION, June 6-Sept. 27

OPERA GRAND RAPIDS

1320 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids  operagr.org

MADAMA BUTTERFLY,  May 15-16

OX-BOW SCHOOL OF ART 3435 Rupprecht Way, Saugatuck ox-bow.org

TEA & TRAILS, May 23

FRIDAY NIGHT OPEN STUDIO, June 12 & 26

SUNDAY SOJOURN, June 14

SAUGATUCK CENTER FOR THE ARTS  400 Culver St., Saugatuck sc4a.org

FLOURISH, Through May 8

EL PUNTO DE REPOSO, Through May 15

MOTHER LAKE, May 22-Sep. 4

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

LEO KOTTKE, May 12

SCHUBERTIADE, May 14

THE GILMORE

359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo thegilmore.org

THE 2026 GILMORE PIANO FESTIVAL,  Apr. 30-May 10

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