KENT COUNTY, Mich. — Another work week has come and gone here in West Michigan, and now it's time to indulge in all the wintry weekend fun the area has to offer. Luckily, there's no shortage of festive activities for the whole family to enjoy.
GKSA Holiday Ice Revue
The Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association is putting the holidays on ice…literally! The holiday ice revue features talented skaters under the lights performing featured numbers from Broadway and Elvis Presley. It's happening at the wings event center on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets range from $15 to $20, but kids five and under are free. You can purchase them at the box office or on their website.
SOMI Visit with Signing Santa
There will be a very special signing Santa visit on Saturday at Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services at the SOMI Unified Sports & Inclusion Center. This is the 14th year Santa will be signing with his young guests. There will be plenty of other interpreters, crafts, activities and two signed story times. It’s happening from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and pre-registration is required. Head to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Service's websiteor the Signing Santa Facebook page to learn more.
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Holiday Open House
Saturday is your last chance to visit the Muskegon Railroad Historical Society’s Holiday Open House. The Christmas village is made up of dozens of beautiful buildings lit up for the season, complete with a Christmas train passing through. Bring the kids and enjoy the magic from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It’s totally free—but donations are gladly accepted.
Mighty Wurlitzer Organ Concert Series: Holiday Classics
The Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ Concert Series concludes its 2023 season today at the Grand Rapids Public Museum with themed holiday classics. Crystal falls organist, David Wickerham will perform all the favorites like "Jingle Bells," "Silent Night," "The First Noel" and more. The show is on Saturday, and it’s $20 per person. Head to the GRPM website to get yours.
Amaze & Amuse Christmas Spectacular
If this season isn’t magical enough for you, we’ve got you covered with mind blowing tricks, comedy, and lots of audience participation! Local magician Trino presents the Amaze and Amuse Modern Day Magic Show Christmas Spectacular at the Wealthy Theater in Grand Rapids this weekend. The family-friendly show features Trino and Will Juggle. There's two shows on Saturday at 4:30 and 7 p.m., and tickets are $30 each or 4 for $100. V.I.P. tickets start at $40 and will get you in the first two rows, and you'll get a deck of cards.
Holiday Concert with the Battle Creek Community Chorus & Sojourner Truth Choir
Music lovers looking to get into the holiday spirit might be interested in checking out a holiday concert hosted in Battle Creek on Sunday, December 17. It's being put on by the Battle Creek Community Chorus and the Sojourner Truth Choir at the First Congregation Church. The set list includes plenty of holiday classics including "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" and "O Holy Night". General admission is $10 dollars, but if you're a student your ticket is half-off.
Annual Christmas Concert with the Edelweiss Club of Grand Rapids
If you're looking to listen to some Christmas carols this holiday season, there's a performance for those in Kent County too. The Edelweiss Club of Grand Rapids is hosting their annual Christmas concert on Sunday, December 17, bringing their German-American take on traditional Christmas songs. You'll hear staples you might remember from Oktoberfest as well as see returning performers like the "Ein Prosit German Band". They're set to make an appearance at this free concert too. It kicks off at 3:30 p.m. at Saint Mary's Catholic Church.
Polish Nativity Scenes at Frederik Meijer Gardens
Celebrating Grand Rapids' polish roots doesn't end with Pulaski days. On Sunday, December 17 at Frederik Meijer Gardens, you can see traditional polish nativity scenes or "szopka" out on display. It's put on by the Polish Heritage Society of Grand Rapids, who says the display highlights the craftsmanship behind the designs. It also teaches the history of a traditional polish Christmas. The showcase runs from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets are not required for this event.
Holiday Art Market
If you're looking to get some potential Christmas shopping out of the way, head over to the Pyramid Scheme on Sunday, December 17 for their Holiday Art Market. The staple of West Michigan's music scene is hosting all types of vendors. Doors open at 4 p.m. and close at 8 p.m.