GR|MAG’s Top Weekend Picks

It wouldn’t be the holiday season without “The Nutcracker.” The Grand Rapids Ballet begins the first of two weekends of performances. Continue the holiday spirit with a visit to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where you can catch a glimpse of live reindeer. If you are looking to warm up, make a reservation for tea at the New Hotel Mertens. That’s not all. Read on for more ways to spend your weekend.

“The Nutcracker” @ Grand Rapids Ballet
(All Weekend)

“The Nutcracker” opens Friday, Dec. 14 and runs for two weekends.

Be there when Clara’s dreams of a handsome prince, dancing snowflakes, a kingdom made of sweets, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and an epic battle of brave soldiers and fighting mice magically come to life before your very eyes thanks to the Grand Rapids Ballet.

All performances take place at DeVos Performance Hall. See times and purchase tickets here.

GRAM Classical Concert Series
(Sunday)

The Grand Rapids Art Museum’s Sunday Classical Concert Series continues this weekend with a performance by Jennifer Walvoord (violin) and Andrew Le (piano).

The performance takes place from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Seating is first come, first served in Cook Auditorium. Every concert is open to the public with general admission, and free for all GRAM members.

Following this performance, the concert series goes on hiatus until February.

Rooftop Reindeer @ Meijer Gardens
(Saturday)

Take your family on a fun adventure this weekend at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where you can view live reindeer.

Meijer Gardens also offers guided winter walks on Saturdays at 11:15 a.m. The winter walks let kids investigate the Children’s Garden in new ways. You’ll explore different winter themes and gather in a cozy spot to learn about winter with stories, kid-friendly conversation and other activities.

While there, take a gander at FMG’s annual Christmas Traditions Around the World exhibit.

For hours and ticket information visit FMG.

Ugly Sweater Night with The Drive
(Saturday)

Tis the season for ugly holiday sweaters! Don yours while cheering The Drive to victory. Ugly Sweater Night takes place on Saturday.

The Drive plays at the DeltaPlex Arena. The game starts at 7 p.m.

Christmas Tea @ New Hotel Mertens
(Saturday & Sunday)

Children and their parents are invited to visit the New Hotel Mertens on Saturday or Sunday for Christmas Tea Service.

Enjoy savory tea sandwiches, Christmas pastries and more.

View the menu and tea times here. Make your reservations online at New Hotel Mertens, and be sure to indicate you’ll be visiting for tea and how many children are in your party.