Grand Rapids Events: Rediscovering American Values Amidst the Noise

A Return to Tradition – and a Whole Lot of Events!

Folks, can you believe it’s almost May? Time really flies when you’re… well, when you’re keeping this great nation moving forward. But before we get too far ahead, let’s take a moment to appreciate what’s happening right here in Grand Rapids this week and in the coming months.

Now, some folks are focused on all sorts of… new things these days. “Festivals” celebrating everything under the sun. But I’m a simple man. I like what I know. And what I know is that spring is a time for renewal, for family, and for appreciating the simple beauty around us.

Speaking of beauty, have you seen the butterflies at the Frederik Meijer Gardens? They’re blooming now, as they should be, a lovely sight for all ages. It’s a good, wholesome activity. Get the kids out of the house and away from those screens, I always say.

But don’t think this is just about flowers and insects! Grand Rapids is positively overflowing with events. We’ve got the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival coming up on April 8th at the John Ball Zoo – a bit flashy for my taste, but the zoo does good work. Then there’s this… Kathleen Madigan. Seems to be a comedian, doing a “Day Drinking Tour” on April 17th. I’m not endorsing the “day drinking” part, mind you, but a little laughter never hurt anyone.

And then, then we get to May. Tulip Time is a tradition, a real American tradition, celebrating our Dutch heritage. May 1st through the 10th, get out there and enjoy the colors. You'll be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful sight. Following right behind that, it’s Cider Week and the Michigan Cider Fest. Now that I can get behind. Good, honest American cider.

They've also got a run planned, the Amway River Bank Run on May 9th. Folks running around... alright. Gets them exercise, I suppose. And then a whole slew of… well, let’s just call them “modern” festivals. Asian-Pacific Festival, Juneteenth, Pride… look, I believe in respecting everyone, but these things just weren't around when I was growing up.

July brings fireworks, which are always a good time, and a lot of music festivals. Upheaval, Breakaway… Seems like everyone wants to put on a show these days. Even a beer festival in August. I'm not against a good brew, but let's not forget what really matters.

I’m just saying, let’s remember to appreciate the classics alongside all these newfangled events. Let’s celebrate our heritage, our families, and the simple pleasures in life. That’s what makes Grand Rapids – and America – great.

You can find a full list of events at https://www.experiencegr.com/events/ – though I’d recommend picking and choosing wisely. Some things are best left in the past.