As fall colors reach their peak and Halloween excitement fills the air, West Michigan comes alive with music, art, and spooky fun. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, an art lover, or a thrill-seeking festival-goer, this weekend offers something for everyone. Here’s your guide to what’s happening October 24–26 across the region.
Jazz by Flugelhorn: Dmitri Matheny Quintet – Jazz from the Silver Screen
Friday, Oct. 24 | 7:30 p.m. | The Block, Muskegon
Flugelhorn virtuoso Dmitri Matheny brings cinematic flair to the stage with Jazz from the Silver Screen, a concert featuring timeless film-inspired jazz classics. Known for his warm tone and lyrical mastery, Matheny—protégé of legendary horn player Art Farmer—returns to Michigan where his journey began at Interlochen Arts Academy. Expect a night of soul, nostalgia, and world-class musicianship. Location: 360 W Western Ave, 2nd Floor, Muskegon | theblockwestmichigan.org
Oddities on Ottawa: Garage Bar & Grill’s Halloween Block Party
Saturday, Oct. 25 | 2–11 p.m. | Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids
Downtown Grand Rapids gets a spooky makeover for Oddities on Ottawa, the Halloween-inspired street festival hosted by Garage Bar & Grill. National electronic artist Figure headlines this year’s two-stage event, known for his bass-heavy “Monsters” series that’s perfect for a night of thrills. The party features food trucks like Street Chef Shaw and Arcane Pizza, a costume contest, and eerie street performers. Owner Kevin Farhat promises “an unforgettable experience in all its creepy glory.”
Tickets: $25 | Eventbrite Link
Jaume Plensa: A New Humanism at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Oct. 24, 2025 – March 15, 2026 | Grand Rapids
This weekend marks the U.S. career retrospective debut of renowned Catalan sculptor Jaume Plensa at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Known for works exploring the human form and spirit, Plensa’s exhibition spans four decades, featuring large-scale installations like Talking Continents and Forgotten Dreams. An opening preview and conversation with the artist will take place Oct. 23 for members. Additional programming, including a curator’s tour on Nov. 9, deepens the experience.
More Info: meijergardens.org/plensa
Grand Rapids Tattoo Festival
Oct. 24–26 | DeVos Place, Downtown Grand Rapids
Back for another high-energy year, the Grand Rapids Tattoo Festival celebrates the art of ink with over 375 world-renowned tattoo artists from around the globe. Enjoy live tattooing, competitions, vendors, and even a Worst Tattoo Contest (with a free removal prize!). Don’t miss the $1,000 Costume Contest on Saturday night for the best Halloween getups. Tickets: Weekend $60 | Daily $27.50 | grandrapidstattoo.com
Downtown Holland Trick-or-Treating
Saturday, Oct. 25 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. | Downtown Holland
Families can kick off Halloween early with Downtown Holland’s annual Trick-or-Treat event, featuring over 50 local businesses handing out candy. Sponsored by Adient, the event also includes face painting, games, and prizes at GDK Park. Rain or shine, it’s a safe, family-friendly way to enjoy a fall morning downtown. Bonus: Stop by Freedom Village for their festive Trunk-or-Treat during the same hours. Details: downtownholland.com
Whether you’re chasing art, music, or mayhem, West Michigan has your weekend covered. Bundle up, get out, and make the most of this vibrant fall weekend.
