Tag Archives: craft shows

Gonzo’s Top 5: Grand Rapids Comic-Con, Taste of Black Spirts and more

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Gonzo's Top 5, Local Entertainment, , , , ,

By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

Well, with a little snow in the forecast, we can now officially say the Christmas holiday season is right around the corner.

Although two of West Michigan’s best-known events won’t open until Thanksgiving weekend (Christmas and Holiday Traditions at Meijer Gardens and Christmas Lite Show at LMCU Ballpark), it’s going to feel like the holidays sooner than later.

Are you ready?

 

This weekend’s Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal, includes a sneak peek of night lights at the ballpark, as well as a craft show, tasting event and Cosplay.

Enjoy.

Here we go.

Gonzo’s Top 5

Handcrafted items are always holiday gift worthy, as these from the Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School. (Supplied, from previous year)

5. Byron Center Craft Show

As I said a couple weeks ago, it’s craft show season, and this weekend you can check out the annual Byron Center Craft Show at Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW. It features 200-plus vendors and plenty of items to jump start your holiday shopping. Hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 13). Admission is $3 at the door. Free admission for those 12 and younger. Parking is free. Additional free parking and shuttle is available at Nickels Intermediate School. The craft show benefits fine arts programming at the school. Oh, and they will have food trucks, too. More info on the event Facebook page.

4. Restaurant Week GR

Have you made it out to Restaurant Week Grand Rapids? This is the last weekend to take advantage of great deals and meals as local chefs show off their skills at 50-plus restaurants. I’ll be out and about this weekend. Say hello if I run into you. Remember, this year you can sign up for Restaurant Week GR’s Digital Pass, and, if you check in to at least three participating restaurants you’ll get foodie-themed gift and a digital coupon for a return visit. For a list of restaurants and more details go to experiencegr.com/restaurant-week.

3. Taste of Black Spirits

A first-year event that hopes to become an annual tradition, Taste of Black Spirits is a cultural tasting experience with a goal of bringing awareness to African American Beer, Wine & Spirits. The event is from 5-10 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 13) at City Flats Hotel in downtown Grand Rapids. According to organizers, “the intention and purpose of the event is to increase support, awareness, and to educate the community at large about African American-owned spirits brands including expanding distribution opportunities.” Patrons will be able to taste whiskey, tequila, vodka, gin, rum, cognac, scotch, beer and wine. The public is invited. The event is curated by GR USA and Taste of Black Spirits, as well as Grand Rapids-based Motu Viget. See the 20-plus spirits brands in attendance, as well as ticket information on the event Facebook page.

2. Winter Wonder Walks at the Christmas Lite Show

Get your tickets now for a walk-thru preview of the annual Christmas Lite Show at LMCU Ballpark in Comstock Park. The annual lights display featuring millions of holiday lights won’t begin until Thanksgiving weekend, but if you want to get pictures and walk the route with friends and family, this is a good time to do so. Hours are 6-8 p.m. Nov. 11-14. Walkers must begin by 7 p.m. to allow time to walk the route. You must purchase your tickets in advance at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-wonder-walk-tickets-189936744917.

1. Grand Rapids Comic-Con

If you’re in downtown Grand Rapids this weekend, don’t be surprised to run into Pikachu or The Mandalorian. It’s Comic-Con weekend (Nov. 12-14) at DeVos Place, which means Cosplay, comic books, panels, celebrity appearances, a car show and more. Hours are noon-midnight Friday, 10 a.m.-midnight Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. For a schedule of events, as well as ticket information, go to grcomiccon.com or check out the event Facebook page.

That’s it for now.

 

As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Have a great, safe weekend.



John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Gonzo’s Top 5: It’s time for Restaurant Week GR, and a Chili Cook-Off

Citizen Journalism, Gonzo's Top 5, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, Restaurants, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Contributing Writer

I turned on Christmas music for the first time last night as I was driving down U.S. 131 and seeing the lights at LMCU Ballpark, which is prepping for the annual Christmas Lite Show display. I can’t believe it’s their 24th year this season.

You know, I’m ready for the holidays.

How about you?

This weekend’s Gonzo’s Top 5 includes holiday events, a sports card shop opening, a chili cook-off and great Grand Rapids restaurants.

Enjoy.

Oh, and Winter Wonder Walks at the Christmas Lite Show in Comstock Park are next weekend (Nov. 11-14). For ticket information, click here.

As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Here we go.

Craft season has started. This week’s featured show is Jenison Christian School. (Photo from Pxhere.com)

5. Craft Show Season

Many craft shows are returning this year, which is exciting for those who love to shop local and get some unique items. If you have a favorite show, please let me know. I plan to include them in our weekly list here on WKTV Journal. This weekend you can check out the annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival at Jenison Christian School. The event is from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 6). You will find both original handmade crafts and baked goods. More info on the school’s Facebook page.

  • A sampling of items available at the Thornapple Sports Cards & Games opening on Saturday. (Thornapple Sports Cards & Games)

4. Thornapple Sports Cards & Games Grand Opening

I’m so nostalgic about sports cards. I collected them as a kid. Got back into the hobby after college. Then I got excited all over again when my kids were kids. Today, I don’t keep up with it like I used to, but I know there is a resurgence in collectibles, especially as NFTs become all the rage. (That’s another topic for another day.) This weekend Thornapple Sports Cards & Games in Hastings has its grand opening with special guest, outfielder/catcher Eric Haase of the Detroit Tigers. He’ll be signing from noon-2 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 6). Autographs are $20. I talked to owner Austin Ball the other day who is so excited to open his store, and bring in one of his favorite Tigers players. Learn more about what specials and deals you can get this weekend on the Thornapple Sports Cards & Games Facebook page. It is located at 107 E State St. Suite B., Hastings. Grand opening is from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Dan and Lis Verhil bring back their famous Chili Cook-Off this weekend.

3. Chili Cook-Off at the Ballpark (Sullivan Field)

It’s back! Lisa and Dan Verhil, former owners of the Cottage Bar in Grand Rapids, are excited that Fans of Valley Field wanted to bring back their popular chili cook-off. After a five-year hiatus, it returns Saturday (Nov. 6) at Sullivan Field, 650 Valley Ave NW, Grand Rapids. Proceeds benefit Kids’ Food Basket and Fans of Valley Field to help restore and renovate Sullivan/Valley Field.

“Dan and I are truly excited to bring back the chili cook off, especially when we’re raising money for two great causes, Valley Field and Kids’ Food Basket,” Lisa Verhil told Gonzo’s Top 5. “We’re also excited to see our favorite Chiliheads who have cooked with us during our previous chili cook-offs. Several of them are returning, and it will be great to see them.”

The event is from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday with live entertainment beginning at noon. Chili tasting and judging begins at 3 p.m. Traditional Red & Homestyle categories, with more than 30 teams. Admission is $5 in advance (includes 3 chili tastes), and $10 at the door. Tickets for chili tastes are $1 each. Yes, there will be adult beverages, too. More info, including a schedule of events, at ballparkchili.com.

2. Bridge Street Makers Market + Bar Hop

In the mood for some early holiday shopping? Traverse to the Stock-Bridge Neighborhood of Grand Rapids to shop 35 makers. Locations Include Harmony Hall, One Bourbon and Bridge Street Market. Products will be a wide variety of handmade goods such as jewelry, knit goods, home decor, metal working, prints, soap, paintings, candles, and more. The event is FREE to attend! You only pay for items you purchase, and the drinks, of course. This is designed as a family-friendly event. More info available on the Bridge Street’s Maker’s Market Facebook event page.

1. Restaurant Week GR

This is an event I have supported since it debuted more than 10 years ago. I’ve done many stories, judged events, dined with the Lovely Pam (we just celebrated our 35th wedding anniversary) and taken contest winners to some of the best restaurants in Grand Rapids. One thing I’ve learned over all these years: These chefs ALWAYS deliver. Restaurant Week GR begins today and runs through Nov. 13 with more than 50 restaurants offering some incredible meals. This year you can sign up for Restaurant Week GR’s Digital Pass, then use it to check in to at least three participating restaurants for a foodie-themed gift. Plus, you’ll earn a digital coupon for a return visit to each restaurant you visit. For a list of restaurants and more details go to experiencegr.com/restaurant-week.

Please let me know if you make any great restaurant discoveries during Restaurant Week GR.

Email me: michigangonzo@gmail.com

Have a great, safe weekend, everyone.



John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

‘Tis the season for holiday craft shows

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Grandville’s 2019 Fall Harvest Craft Show is Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Grandville High School. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Oct. 12

St. Mark Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saint Mark Lutheran, 1934 52nd St. SE, Kentwood. 

Oct 19

2019 Fall Harvest Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Grandville High School, 4700 Canal Ave. SW.

Oct. 26 

Annual Breton Woods Holiday Market, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Breton Woods, 2772 Pfeiffer Woods, Dr. SE, Kentwood.

Georgetown Bible Church’s 6th Annual Free Fall Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Georgetown Bible Church, 4114 Baldwin St., Hudsonville.

Nov. 1 – 3

Holiday Craft Show, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE.

Nov. 2

Rush Creek Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Rush Creek Bible Church, 2334 76th SW, Byron Center.

Arts, Crafts, Bake Sale, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. St. Paul’s Anglican Catholic Church, 2560 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, Grand Rapids.

Ribbons and Bows Holiday Arts and Crafts Show, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Christ Community Church, 2400 Forest Hill Ave SE, Grand Rapids. Admission : $3

Nov. 8 – 9

Beneath the Wreath, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday. The cultural Center at St. Nicholas, 2250 E. Parisi Ave. SE., Grand Rapids.

Nov. 9

Byron Center Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW

Holiday Craft and Vendor Sale, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. South Grandville Christian Reformed Church, 4130 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville.

Nov. 23

Home School Building 2019 Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., 5625 Burlingame Ave. SW.

Nov. 30

Wyoming High School, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Pkwy.

Dec. 1

Let It Snow Craft and Vendor Show, noon – 4 p.m. American Legion Post 179, 2327 Ave. SW.

Dec. 7

2019 West Catholic High School Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. West Catholic high School 1801 Bristol Ave. NW.

UICA’s Holiday Artist Market, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Steelcase Town Hall, 901 44th St. SE, Grand Rapids.

Dec. 13 – 14

Holiday Textiles Arts Market, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Aquinas College donnelly Center, 157 Woodward Ln SE, Grand Rapids. 

‘Tis the season for craft shows

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Halloween has not even passed but the holiday craft show season has been in full swing for about two weeks.

 

The shows are great for gift inspirations or just hang with friends and checking out the goodies. Below, we have compiled some local and popular area shows you might want to consider visiting if you have the chance.

 

 

Oct. 29

Christmas Bazaar: Breton Ridge, 2772 Pfeiffer Woods Dr., Grand Rapids. 9 am – 3 p.m.

 

Nov. 4 — 5

Beneath the Wreath, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $5. www.juniorleaguegr.com

 

Nov. 5

Arts and Crafts Show: Duncan Lake Middle School, 9757 Duncan Lake Ave., Caledonia. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. http://www..caledoniasourcecenter.org

 

Nov. 5

Jenison Christian School Fall Arts and Crafts Show: Jenison Christian School, 7726 Graceland, Jenison. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. www.jenisonchristian.org

 

Nov. 5

Arts, Crafts, and Bake Sale: St. Paul’s Church, 2560 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. More than 20 exhibitors with breakfast and lunch.

 

Nov. 11

Holiday Gift Show and Lunch: Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, 701 W. Cloverdale Rd., Hastings. 11 am-3 pm.  Seating times are 11 a.m. – noon; 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.; 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Call 269-721-4190

 

Nov. 11 — 12 

West Michigan Potters Guild 33rd Annual Fall Show and Sale: The Cultural Center at St. Nicholas, 2250 E. Paris Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. Noon – 9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday. www.westmichiganpottersguild.com

 

Nov. 12

Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters Annual Craft Fair: Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame Ave SW, Byron Center. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Entrance fee: $2. 616-878-6600

 

Nov. 12

Christmas Holiday Craft Show: St. Mary Magdalen Breitenstein Center, 1213 52nd Street SE, Kentwood. 10 am-3 pm. www.stmmagdalen.org

 

Nov. 12 – 13

Immaculate Heart of Mary Holiday Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., 1935 Plymouth Road SE.

 

Nov. 13 – Dec. 23

LowellArts! Holiday Market: LowellArts!, 149 S. Hudson St., Lowell. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Free. 897-8545

 

Nov. 22

Winter Bazaar: Dorr Township Library, 1804 Sunset Dr., Dorr. 9 am. 616-681-9678

 

Nov. 22

3rd Annual Winter Bazaar: Hopkins District Library, 118 E. Main St., Hopkins. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.hopkins.llcoop.org

 

Nov. 27

Grand Valley Armory, 1200 44th St. SW, Wyoming, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

Nov. 28 – Dec. 20

Holiday Walk and Market: W.K. Kellogg Manor House, 3700 E. Gull Lake Dr., Hickory Corners. Fridays and Saturdays, noon-5 pm. $7/adult and $5/senior & student. 269-671-2416

 

Nov. 29

Wyoming Band Boosters Craft Shows: Wyoming High School, 1350 Praire Parkway SW, Wyoming. 9 a.m. – 3 pm.

 

Dec. 3 – 4

Holiday Artists’ Market at Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, 41 Sheldon Blvd. SE, 5 – 9 p.m.

 

Dec. 4

Kentwood Community Church, 1200 60th St. SE, Kentwood, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., more than 90 crafters, bake sale, lunch, with Purchasing with a Purpose room.

 

Dec. 6

Rogue River Artisans Fine Art & Craft Holiday Sale: Lowell High School, 11700 Vergennes, Lowell. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.lowellholidayartshow.com