GR|Mag’s Top Weekend Picks

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? GR|Mag has you covered.

Party with VaNder Mill

The cider maker is hosting a block party tonight from 5 p.m to 8 p.m. at Vander Mill Grand Rapids, 505 Ball Ave. The party is free to attend and kid friendly. Food will be available for purchase. Adult food tickets must be purchased ahead of the event.

Adult Menu: Coal grilled “Santa Maria” style grass-fed black angus tri-tip, green tomato pico de gallo, bacon braised pinquito beans with sweet corn, and toasted green garlic French bread…$16

Kids Menu: a grilled hotdog, chips and a pickle with a drink…$5

Listen to the music of band Chicago with Picnic Pops

Tribute band Brass Transit performs the music of Chicago on Thursday and Friday at Cannonsburg Ski Area as part of the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Picnic Pops series.

Brass Transit is a Toronto-based group that launched in 2008 specifically to play the music of Chicago. Expect to hear Chicago hits like Beginnings, Saturday in the Park, You’re the Inspiration and a lot more.

Gates open at 5:45 p.m. for picnicking and pre-concert activities, including pre-show entertainment performed by jazz pianist Steve Talaga. Performances begin at 7:30.

Attend the Grand Rapids Balloon Festival

The fourth annual Grand Rapids Balloon Festival is happening Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Saturday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Hudsonville, 5235 Park Ave.

There will be live music, helicopter rides, visitors from the Critter Barn and inflatables and balloons galore. Attendees can also catch The Balloon Guy / Jim Perry and Maciek The Magician, have their photo taken with MiPhotoBooth, and visit Wine and Canvas Grand Rapids’ booth (modified to cookies & canvas for this family-friendly event). There will also be a dunk tank, face painting, carnival games with prizes, vendor booths and more.

For the full schedule with times, attractions, location and more visit Grand Rapids Balloon Festival.

Take in a double feature at Movies in the Park

Movies in the Park is offering a double feature this weekend. Come early for The Book of Life (PG) and stay late for Jaws (PG).

The Book of Life debuted in theaters in 2014. The story follows Manolo, a young man who is torn between fulfilling the expectations of his family and following his heart. He embarks on an adventure that spans three fantastic worlds where he must face his greatest fears.

Jaws first came ashore to movie theater screens in 1975. The classic film is about a giant great white shark that arrives on the shores of a New England beach resort and wreaks havoc with bloody attacks on swimmers, until a local sheriff teams up with a marine biologist and an old seafarer to hunt the monster down.

Movies in the Park takes place at Ah-Nab-Awen Park. Pre-movie entertainment begins at 6 p.m. The Book of Life will begin at 7 p.m., followed by Jaws at 9:30 p.m.

Get fit & sip a cocktail

Kula Yoga is teaming up with Grey Skies Distillery this weekend to offer Kula Yoga and Cocktails. Head to the distillery on Saturday for Vinyasa in the barrel room, followed by $5 hand-crafted cocktails in the tasting room. The yoga class starts at 11 a.m. The event concludes at 1 p.m.

Registration isn’t necessary and Kula Yoga is asking for a donation to attend.

Eat a taco for a cause

The Apartment Lounge is hosting a taco bar fundraiser on Sunday to raise money for Birch Lodge.

“One of our community establishments Birch Lodge has suffered a massive blow with an internal fire. This has caused them to temporarily close their doors and their staff to suffer immense financial loss. In the spirit of their Sunday Funday, we are hosting a taco bar on July 23 from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. It is a $5 donation for endless tacos.

“All donations will go towards the wonderful staff of Birch Lodge. In the hardest of times, we must come together as a community and support each other when in need.”