1. Ice skating season at Rosa Parks Circle kicks off on Friday.
The rink off Monroe Center will be open every day of the week, weather permitting, but there are some changes this year due to COVID-19.
The rink will only allow up to 25 skaters at one time, skating equipment will be sanitized after each use, and all operations will be done under tents outside.
Skaters must reserve their time in advance, they'll also have to wear a face mask and social distance.
Book a reservation, and read more about these changes on the rink's Facebook page.
2. The temperatures have dropped low enough for Cannonsburg Ski Area to start making snow.
They posted a video on Facebook on Monday as they fired up the snow guns.
There's no word yet on when they plan to open for the holiday season.
3. Easterseals Michigan is hosting a virtual visit with Santa this week, designed specifically for children on the autism spectrum.
The visit will be held from 5:30 to 6 on Thursday. The evening will include a sing-along, a story read by Santa, a fun craft, and special guests like Genessee County Sheriff Chris Swanson.
Children can also share their wish list with Santa in the comment section, and he will do his best to respond to every boy and girl.
The virtual event is completely free. Check it out on Easterseal's Facebook page.
4. Brewery Vivant is celebrating its 10-year anniversary in Grand Rapids. They'll release a new brew called J'aison on Thursday.
It's the first recipe the owner, Jason Spaulding, worked on while creating their first beer list.
Brewery Vivant is currently closed for indoor dining, but they do offer heated outdoor seating in addition to takeout and delivery.
The Spaulding's are hosting their 10-year toast this weekend too. It's scheduled for Sunday, December 20 at 7 p.m. on Facebook Live.
5. Long Road Distillers is teaming up with Blandford Nature Center to create a new maple bourbon.
The organizations, which are separated by less than two miles on Grand Rapids West Side are releasing the Long Road Blandford Maple Bourbon at Long Road's tasting room this week.
Less than 100 bottles of the bourbon were produced, and a portion of the sales will be given to the nature center.
Pick up a bottle in-person or takeout through Long Road's website. It'll be available at 3 p.m. on Wednesday.
