Inclement weather sweeping through the region on Wednesday evening has led to a series of closures and schedule changes in Grand Rapids and Kentwood. Local municipalities announced several cancellations or delays for events planned for Thursday, December 5, 2024.
In Grand Rapids, the opening of the Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink, originally set for today, has been postponed. The rink will now open for the season on Friday, December 6, at 10 a.m. Skaters with reservations for Thursday can reschedule their bookings through the Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink website.
The Rosa Parks Essay Contest Winners’ Celebration, scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m. on December 5 at City Commission Chambers, has also been postponed. A new date for the event will be announced at a later time.
Additionally, all Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation programs for December 5 have been cancelled. This includes the 50+ programming at Garfield Park Gym, as well as all fitness and youth classes. Refunds for these programs will be issued at the end of the session.
In Kentwood, the city’s annual holiday tree lighting and parade have been rescheduled due to the weather. Originally set for December 5, the festivities will now take place on Friday, December 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, located at 4950 Breton Ave. SE.
The event will begin with a parade, followed by the tree lighting and caroling at 6:30 p.m., and a visit from Santa Claus. The Patty Matters food truck will be on-site, offering food and beverages for purchase.
Santa’s Workshop will also be held inside the library’s community room, where children can enjoy cookie decorating, hot chocolate, crafts, and story time. The city is still accepting parade entries; registration is required, but participation is free. Those interested in joining the parade can learn more and register at kentwood.us/TreeLighting or by calling 616-656-5270.
According to the National Weather Service, lake-effect snow and blowing snow are expected to cause hazardous travel conditions across Western Lower Michigan on December 5. Snowfall amounts are expected to be heaviest near the lakeshore, with totals ranging from 4 to 8 inches or more. Drivers are advised to slow down and adjust their driving to the conditions. Snow showers are expected to taper off tonight, with temperatures dropping to around 20 degrees.
Weather forecasts for the coming days show continued chances for snow. A 30 percent chance of snow showers is forecast for Friday, with a high near 29 degrees and gusty west winds.
For additional weather updates, travelers are encouraged to monitor local forecasts.
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