From Halloween adventures and acclaimed performances to fall farm fun and live music, Grand Rapids and the surrounding area offer plenty of ways to make the most of the weekend.
1. Get Spooky at Zoo Goes Boo
Halloween fun takes over John Ball Zoo as Zoo Goes Boo returns for its first weekend of family-friendly festivities. Visitors can explore 13 trick-or-treat stations, encounter larger-than-life characters and enjoy entertainment featuring magicians, fire dancers and more. Costumes are encouraged, and allergy-friendly treats are available at designated stations. The event also highlights wildlife conservation through its commitment to sustainably sourced palm oil in Halloween candy.
When: Oct. 16–18, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. for general admission
Where: John Ball Zoo, Grand Rapids
Admission: Free for members; $22.95 adults, $16.95 youth and seniors
More information: HERE.
2. See Grand Rapids Ballet’s Broken Wings
Grand Rapids Ballet presents Broken Wings, an acclaimed ballet inspired by the life and art of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. Choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, the production explores Kahlo’s struggles, relationships and artistic resilience through powerful movement and a score incorporating Mexican folk music. The program also features A Dreamer, inspired by physicist Stephen Hawking, making for an evening celebrating creativity and perseverance.
When: Oct. 16–18 and Oct. 23–25
Where: Peter Martin Wege Theatre, Grand Rapids
Tickets: Prices vary
More information: HERE.
3. Catch The Notebook on Broadway
The beloved romance The Notebook comes to life onstage at DeVos Performance Hall for its final weekend in Grand Rapids. Based on Nicholas Sparks’ bestselling novel and the hit film, the musical follows Noah and Allie through different stages of their lives, exploring love, aging and memory. With music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson, the production offers a moving theatrical experience for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
When: Through Oct. 18
Where: DeVos Performance Hall, downtown Grand Rapids
Tickets: Variable, starting at $56
More information: https://grandrapids.broadway.com/
4. Taste Uptown on a Walking Food Tour
Discover Uptown Grand Rapids one bite at a time during a guided walking food tour featuring four local eateries. Over three hours, participants can sample a curated selection of savory dishes and sweet treats while exploring the neighborhood’s independent restaurants and vibrant culture. Starting at Art of the Table, the small-group experience offers a delicious way to discover new favorites and appreciate one of Grand Rapids’ most distinctive neighborhoods.
When: Saturday, Oct. 17, 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Where: Art of the Table, 606 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids
Admission: $70
Tickets: HERE.
5. Explore a Haunted Corn Maze
Rasch Cherry & Apple Market transforms its eight-acre corn maze into a Halloween adventure after dark. Visitors can navigate the Haunted Harvest Maze or climb aboard a Spooky Hayride through eerie orchards and shadowy country trails. Those seeking the full experience can purchase a discounted bundle. Before or after the scares, the market offers seasonal favorites, including apple cider slushies, doughnuts and fresh apple treats.
When: Saturday, Oct. 17, 9–11 p.m.; also Oct. 24 and 31
Where: Rasch Cherry & Apple Market, 17647 40th Ave., Conklin
Admission: $17 for the maze, $8 for the hayride or $23 for both
More information: HERE.
6. Enjoy Fall at Post Family Farm
Pumpkin picking, wagon rides and fresh doughnuts make Post Family Farm a classic autumn destination. Visitors can explore the pumpkin patch and corn maze, meet farm animals, enjoy bonfires and try seasonal attractions, including pony rides and zip lines. The farm’s famous pumpkin doughnuts and apple cider are must-tries for anyone craving the flavors of fall. It’s an easy family outing for enjoying the harvest season just outside Grand Rapids.
When: Friday, noon–7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
Where: Post Family Farm, 5081 Bauer Road, Hudsonville
Admission: $12 online or $15 at the gate for ages 2 and older
7. Laugh Out Loud with River City Improv
Get ready for a night of quick-witted comedy with River City Improv, a Grand Rapids troupe delivering short-form improv inspired by audience suggestions. Founded in 1993, the group brings clean, clever comedy reminiscent of Whose Line Is It Anyway? to the stage. With every show shaped by audience participation, no two performances are alike. Whether it’s a date night or an evening out with friends, River City Improv promises plenty of laughs.
When: Saturday, Oct. 17, 7 p.m.
Where: Midtown at Studio Park, 123 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids
Admission: $0–$20
Tickets and information: HERE.
8. Sip and Listen at Meijer Gardens
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park welcomes visitors for an autumn afternoon of live music and seasonal refreshments at its Harvest Beer Garden. Performances on the Amphitheater Stage run from 2–4 p.m., with food and drink concessions available until 5 p.m. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy the fall atmosphere, gather with friends and pair a visit to the gardens with live entertainment.
When: Sunday, Oct. 18, 2–5 p.m.; music from 2–4 p.m.
Where: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids
Admission: Included with daily garden admission
More information: meijergardens.org
9. Wind Down with Live Jazz
Round out the weekend with live music from Outside Pocket, a jazz trio performing at Testa Rossa Italian Ristorante. Featuring Travis Swanson on guitar, Steve Talaga on piano and Greg Scheer on bass and vocals, the group blends jazz standards with R&B, swing and funk. The Sunday evening performance offers an inviting opportunity to enjoy local musicians and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.
When: Sunday, Oct. 18, 5 p.m.
Where: Testa Rossa Italian Ristorante, 1017 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids
