Events

Euchre Night

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 18:00:00 -0400

Shuffle up and deal in! We can't wait to see you there!

Halloween In The Park

Sat, 31 Oct 2026 12:00:00 -0400

Celebrate the spirit of the season with Halloween in the Park, a family-friendly fall event filled with festive activities for all ages. Enjoy a treat trail, a petting zoo, local vendors, live music, and plenty of classic autumn fun in a welcoming community setting.

After the park festivities wrap up, the celebration continues at the Upton Block Party. Kids and pets can join a cheerful costume parade, followed by pumpkin painting, games, additional vendors, music, and a few spooky surprises along the way. Visitors are encouraged to explore both events for a full day of Halloween excitement in downtown Reed City.

This community celebration is made possible through local partners and is open to both residents and guests. It’s a great option for families looking for seasonal travel ideas, fall day trips, or affordable Halloween fun in northern Michigan.

Reed City Evergreen Festival

Fri, 27 Nov 2026 09:00:00 -0500

Get ready for the return of the Evergreen Festival in downtown Reed City — a beloved holiday tradition that brings festive cheer, community spirit, and a touch of magic to our town. While we are still finalizing dates and activities for 2026, this yearly celebration remains a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy a cozy, small-town holiday experience. The festivities begin Friday evening with a community parade through downtown streets and a heartwarming tree-lighting ceremony at the depot, followed by music, local holiday spirit, and community camaraderie. On Saturday, families enjoy a relaxed, joyful morning filled with crafts, time to visit with Santa, holiday treats, and a chance to explore vendors and holiday goods — making it a weekend tradition for many. Evergreen Festival remains a holiday highlight in Reed City, ideal for visitors seeking a warm, welcoming, family-friendly holiday outing.

Karaoke at the Sawmill Saloon

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 20:00:00 -0400

Sing your heart out at Karaoke Night at the Sawmill Saloon in Big Rapids, Michigan. This popular local event invites residents and visitors to enjoy a fun-filled evening of live karaoke, great drinks, and a welcoming small-town bar atmosphere.

Karaoke Night at the Sawmill Saloon features a wide selection of songs across multiple genres including country, classic rock, pop, and today’s hits. Whether you are stepping on stage for the first time or are a seasoned karaoke performer, this Big Rapids nightlife event offers something for everyone.

Located in downtown Big Rapids, the Sawmill Saloon is a well-known local bar and entertainment venue, making it a great stop during a night out in Mecosta County. Gather with friends, cheer on fellow singers, and enjoy one of the most entertaining weekly karaoke nights in the area.

Looking for things to do in Big Rapids, Michigan? Karaoke Night at the Sawmill Saloon is a fun, free, and social experience that adds to the area’s vibrant local entertainment scene.

Karaoke at the Sawmill Saloon

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 21:00:00 -0400

Located across the White Pine Trail in East Big Rapids, the Sawmill Saloon is a well-known local bar and entertainment venue, making it a great stop during a night out in Mecosta County. Gather with friends, cheer on fellow singers, and enjoy one of the most entertaining weekly karaoke nights in the area.

Looking for things to do in Big Rapids, Michigan? Karaoke Night at the Sawmill Saloon is a fun, free, and social experience that adds to the area’s vibrant local entertainment scene.

Open Mic Night at the Sawmill Saloon Featuring Bob Craig

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 19:00:00 -0400

Held every Wednesday, this weekly music event invites musicians, singers, and performers of all skill levels to take the stage in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Hosted by Bob Craig, Open Mic Night at the Sawmill Saloon showcases a variety of performances including acoustic music, original songs, covers, and creative acts. Whether you are performing or simply enjoying the show, this Big Rapids live music event offers an authentic small-town entertainment experience.

Located across from the White Pine Trail in East Big Rapids, the Sawmill Saloon is a popular nightlife destination in Mecosta County, known for its friendly atmosphere and strong support of local artists. Come early to sign up, enjoy a drink, and discover new talent during one of the area’s favorite weekly music nights.

Looking for things to do in Big Rapids on a Wednesday night? Open Mic Night at the Sawmill Saloon is a great way to enjoy live music, connect with the local arts scene, and experience Mecosta County nightlife.

Check their facebook page for changes to this event

Artworks Open Pottery Class

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 17:00:00 -0400

These classes fill up quickly so visit Artworks Website for latest information and availability.

Get hands-on with clay at the Open Pottery Workshop at Artworks in Big Rapids, Michigan. This creative workshop offers a welcoming space for beginners and experienced artists to explore pottery techniques and enjoy a relaxed, artistic experience.

Hosted at Artworks, a cornerstone of the Big Rapids arts community, the Open Pottery Workshop allows participants to work at their own pace while creating functional or decorative ceramic pieces. Whether you are learning the basics or refining your skills, this workshop encourages creativity and self-expression in a supportive environment.

Located in downtown Big Rapids, Artworks is a popular destination for arts and culture in Mecosta County. The Open Pottery Workshop is perfect for a solo creative outing, a date night with a twist, or a fun activity with friends and family.

Looking for creative things to do in Big Rapids, Michigan? The Open Pottery Workshop at Artworks offers a unique way to connect with the local arts scene and enjoy a memorable hands-on experience.

After School Art

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 15:45:00 -0400

Inspire creativity at the After School Art Class at Artworks in Big Rapids, Michigan. This free weekly art class is designed for children ages 7 to 13 and offers a fun, welcoming environment to explore art and self-expression after school.

Held every Wednesday, the After School Art Class provides hands-on creative activities led in a supportive studio setting. Students can experiment with different art techniques while building confidence and creativity. Drop-ins are welcome on a first come, first served basis, making it easy for families to participate.

Class size is limited to a maximum of 12 students. Registration is encouraged to guarantee a spot and can be completed by calling Artworks directly no earlier than the Monday prior to each class.

Located in downtown Big Rapids, Artworks is a trusted community arts organization and a great place for kids to connect with the local arts scene in Mecosta County.

Looking for free family-friendly activities in Big Rapids, Michigan? The After School Art Class at Artworks offers a creative, educational experience for kids in a supportive community setting.

Fall Fest

Sat, 31 Oct 2026 12:00:00 -0400

Celebrate autumn in the heart of downtown Big Rapids at the annual Big Rapids DBA Fall Fest, one of the most anticipated fall events in West Michigan. This year, the festival lands on Halloween, making it the perfect way to enjoy seasonal traditions with kids, friends, and neighbors.

Fall Fest brings the community together for an afternoon filled with sweet treats, exciting games, festive food, and classic fall activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Big Rapids or searching for fall festivals near you, this celebration is a must-add to your seasonal calendar.

Mark your calendar for October 31, 2026, and get ready for an afternoon of laughter, community spirit, and the best flavors of fall. More details will be announced closer to the event date.

Big Rapids Festival of the Lights 2026

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 18:00:00 -0500

Get ready to jingle all the way as the Big Rapids Downtown Business Association presents the annual Festival of Lights Parade in beautiful downtown Big Rapids. This free community tradition is the perfect way to start the holiday season with family, friends, and neighbors.

The parade features a dazzling lineup of floats, marching bands, and festive holiday displays filling the streets with seasonal cheer. Visitors can also enjoy a tree lighting ceremony, live reindeer, warm caroling, and a special visit from Santa himself. Hot chocolate and holiday treats add to the cozy atmosphere, making this an unforgettable winter celebration in West Michigan.

The Festival of Lights Parade is also a wonderful way to support local businesses and community organizations while experiencing the charm of downtown Big Rapids during the holidays.

Parade highlights include:

A grand holiday parade with floats and marching bands
Tree lighting ceremony
Live reindeer
Visit with Santa
Caroling and holiday music
Hot chocolate and seasonal fun

Admission is free, and those interested in participating in the parade can register in advance.

Bundle up, arrive early for a great viewing spot, and bring your camera, this beloved holiday tradition is sure to create lasting memories.

Trivia Night at the Sawmill Saloon

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 19:00:00 -0400

Gather your friends and join the fun at Trivia Night at the Sawmill Saloon, a weekly favorite in Big Rapids and a perfect midweek activity in West Michigan. Held every Thursday, this lively event invites teams of any size to compete in a friendly battle of brains.

Trivia is free to play, and there is no limit on team size, so bring a group or join in with fellow players. With prizes awarded to the biggest brains of the night, you will have plenty of motivation to think fast, laugh loud, and enjoy the competition.

Whether you are a trivia regular or just looking for a fun night out, Trivia Night at the Sawmill Saloon offers great community energy, casual entertainment, and a reason to celebrate the weekend early.

Distinguished Dawgs Toastmaster Club Meeting

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 18:00:00 -0400

Looking to sharpen your communication skills, grow as a leader, or feel more confident speaking in front of others? The Distinguished Dawgs Toastmasters Club at Ferris State University invites students, faculty, and community members to gather, learn, and practice in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Toastmasters International is a globally recognized organization focused on personal and professional development through communication and leadership training.

Each meeting is designed to help you grow at your own pace with guided speaking opportunities, constructive feedback, and real-world skill building you can use in the classroom, workplace, and beyond.

Whether you're preparing for presentations, interviews, or simply want to feel more confident sharing your ideas, this is a space to practice, connect, and improve together.

What to Expect:

Short prepared speeches and impromptu speaking exercises
Supportive, constructive feedback from peers
Leadership and communication skill-building
A welcoming mix of students, professionals, and community members

No experience is needed. Just show up and get involved. Toastmasters is built on values like respect, integrity, service, and excellence, creating an environment where everyone is encouraged to grow and succeed. It’s a simple, effective way to build confidence, strengthen your voice, and connect with others in the Big Rapids and West Michigan community.

Tech Help

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 16:00:00 -0400

Need help with your phone, tablet, or laptop? Stop by Tech Help Fridays from 4–6 PM! Volunteers from the Sigma Pi Theta Chapter will be available to answer questions, share helpful tips and tricks, and assist with everyday tech challenges. No sign-up necessary — just drop in!

Storytime with Mr. Howard

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Storytime with Mr. Howard! Join Mr. Howard every Wednesday for stories, rhymes, songs, and movement!

Adult Arts and Craft Workshop

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 16:00:00 -0400

Get creative at our Adult Arts and Craft Workshop! Join us the first Tuesday of each month from 4–5:30 PM for a guided craft designed just for adults. July’s workshop features a fun Paint and Sip theme. Space is limited, so registration is required.

Family Arts and Craft Workshop

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 16:00:00 -0400

Bring the whole family and get creative at our Family Arts and Craft Workshop! Join us the first Thursday of each month from 4–5 PM for a guided craft designed for all ages. July’s workshop features watercolor dinosaurs! Space is limited and registration is required.

Preschool Story Hour

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 10:00:00 -0400

Join us for Preschool Story Hour every Tuesday from 10–11am! Children ages 5 and under are invited to enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, crafts, and plenty of fun with library staff. Caregivers are required to attend and share in the experience.

Technology Services Open Hours

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 10:00:00 -0400

Technology Services Open Hours: 10am to 2 pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Walking Program

Wed, 07 Oct 2026 09:15:00 -0400

Get moving with the Wednesday Walking Program! Join us every Wednesday from 9:15–10am for a fun and welcoming walk open to all ages. Drop by, enjoy some fresh air, and connect with the community while staying active.

Adult Make and Take Crafts

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 10:00:00 -0400

Get creative with Adult Make and Take Crafts! Stop by during regular hours to enjoy this month’s hands-on activity and decorate your own small flowerpot to take home with a plant.

Knitting/Needle Craft Club

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Bring your knitting, crochet, or favorite needle craft project and join the Knitting/Needle Craft Club every Monday at 1pm! Enjoy a welcoming space to craft, socialize, and share ideas with fellow creators.

Cook Book Club

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Calling all food lovers! Join the Cook Book Club from 1–3pm on the second Monday of each month at the United Methodist Church in Leroy, Michigan for an afternoon of recipes, conversation, and shared love for cooking.

Bird City Big Rapids-Fall Bird Walk

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Join the Bird City Big Rapids team and your fellow bird enthusiasts on a guided Bird Walk with local ornithologist, Joe Lipar. Explore Northend Riverside Park, learn more about local birds and how to spot them, meet members of the Bird City Big Rapids committee and your local leadership!

Everyone is welcome to this free event. Be sure to dress for the weather, bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and (if you have them) your binoculars!

Walking Program — Big Rapids Middle Schoo

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 16:00:00 -0400

Big Rapids Parks and Recreation opens the Middle School hallways for free indoor walking all winter, Monday through Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m., starting October 26. It's a longstanding program for walkers who want a flat, climate-controlled loop once the weather turns, running through the winter months. No registration or fee required, just show up and walk at your own pace.

Senior Fit Time

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 09:00:00 -0400

Senior Fit Time returns to the Style Station on Catherine Street for its fall session, meeting Tuesdays from 4 to 5 p.m. and Thursdays from 3 to 4 p.m. starting September 15. The class is built around cardio, balance, and stretching at a pace suited for older adults working on low-impact fitness. Cost is $2 per participant, with no class held November 26 for Thanksgiving week. Bring a mat, water bottle, and personal weights if you have them.

Delay the Disease: Fitness for Parkinson's

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Delay the Disease gives people living with Parkinson's a dedicated hour to work on strength, balance, and mobility in a class built entirely around their needs. Thursdays at 1 p.m. starting September 17 at the Style Station, the program uses movements aimed at helping manage Parkinson's symptoms and maintain independence longer. Cost is just $2 a session, with no class held November 26.

Latin Dance Cardio

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 18:00:00 -0400

Forget the treadmill. Latin Dance Cardio turns Tuesday nights at Big Rapids Middle School into a dance party disguised as a workout. Starting September 15 at 6 p.m., the class moves through Latin rhythms and cardio intervals that get the heart rate up and the feet moving before you even notice you're exercising. Drop in for $5 or grab the five-class punch card for $20. Skip the gym guilt, bring your dancing shoes instead. No class November 10 or December 15.

The Chosen Season 6 Pre-Screening

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 18:00:00 -0400

🎬 THE CHOSEN: SEASON 6 — EARLY ACCESS EVENT 🎬

We’re excited to announce that Big Jackson Church has been given special EARLY ACCESS to stream Season 6, Episode 1 of The Chosen — before the new season officially releases!

Join us Saturday, October 10th at 6:00 PM at Big Jackson Church for a special community viewing of the Season 6 premiere.

🔥 WATCH IT EARLY — AT NO COST!
That’s right! Everyone is welcome, and there is NO COST to attend.

Bring your family, invite your friends, and come experience the story of Jesus together on the big screen!

👧 KIDS ARE WELCOME!

We want the whole family to be able to enjoy the evening. While the adults and older kids enjoy the livestream upstairs, we’ll have a special kids event happening downstairs with activities and fun for them as well.

📅 Saturday, October 10th
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 Big Jackson Church
🎟️ FREE — Everyone is welcome!

Come early, grab a seat, bring a friend, and be part of this special opportunity to experience the next chapter of The Chosen together!

We can’t wait to see you there! 🙌

Get up & Groove

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 18:00:00 -0400

Get Up and Groove is the Thursday answer to Tuesday's Latin Dance Cardio: same Big Rapids Middle School floor, same high-energy spirit, new playlist. Starting September 17 at 6 p.m., the class pairs upbeat music with a full-body cardio workout that sneaks in a serious sweat under the cover of a good time. $5 per person, no rhythm or experience required. No class October 15, November 26, or December 17.

Fitness Boxing (Non-Combat)

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 18:30:00 -0400

Starts September 21 · Mondays & Thursdays · Youth 6:30–7:20 p.m. · Adult 7:30–8:20 p.m. Throw some punches without throwing any actual punches. Fitness Boxing brings all the footwork, form, and conditioning of a boxing workout to Big Rapids Middle School, with zero sparring and zero contact. Starting September 21, youth take the floor Mondays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:20 p.m., followed by adults from 7:30 to 8:20 p.m. A fast way to build strength, burn off stress, and feel like a fighter without ever taking a hit.

Water Aerobics

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 09:00:00 -0400

Trade the treadmill for the pool. Water Aerobics returns to the Ferris State Student Recreation Center for the fall, meeting Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings at 9 a.m. starting September 28. Water resistance does the heavy lifting here, delivering a full-body workout that's far easier on the joints than anything on land. Drop in for $4 a class or grab the 12-class punch card for $40 at City Hall.

Chalk the Walk

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 10:00:00 -0400

Chalk the Walk turns the Riverwalk into an open-air canvas on Saturday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as Ferris State University's Fine Art Gallery hosts its first-ever sidewalk art competition along the Muskegon River at Hemlock Park. Grab a piece of chalk, free and provided on-site, and claim a stretch of pavement to draw just for fun, or enter one of three competition divisions for a shot at art-related prizes: solo ages 13–17 (parental permission required), solo ages 18 and up, or groups of two to five people of any age. No registration, no entry fee, and no art degree required, just show up and start drawing. The event is presented in partnership with Explore the Big Rapids Region, the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly, and Artworks. Questions go to Gallery coordinator Ana Phillips at anaphillips@ferris.edu, and visitors needing disability accommodations should contact the Gallery at least 72 hours ahead at 231-591-2571. Make a full morning of it with lunch downtown or a walk along the rest of the Riverwalk trail.