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.

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 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 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.

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

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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

Held on a scenic 160-acre festival site, Wheatland is known for its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and focus on traditional arts. Guests can enjoy live performances across multiple stages, featuring folk, bluegrass, Americana, and world music, along with hands-on workshops, dance sessions, and spontaneous jam circles throughout the grounds.

Beyond the music, the festival offers a rich cultural experience with artisan demonstrations, juried arts and crafts vendors, and a wide variety of food options. Attendees can explore, learn, and participate, making it more than just a music festival—it’s a full immersive experience.

If you’re searching for things to do near Big Rapids or planning a late summer getaway in West Michigan, Wheatland stands out as one of the region’s most unique and meaningful festivals. Whether you stay for the day or the full weekend, you’ll find a strong sense of community, creativity, and tradition.

Event Highlights:

• Live music across multiple stages
• Folk, bluegrass, Americana, and world music
• Workshops, dance, and jam sessions
• Arts, crafts, and artisan vendors
• Family-friendly activities and programs
• Food vendors and camping opportunities

Plan Your Visit:

If you’re looking for one of the top music festivals in West Michigan, Wheatland offers a unique blend of music, culture, and community. Bring a chair, explore the grounds, and take time to wander, connect, and enjoy the experience.

Whittle away the stress of the week, swap tips (and tall tales), and celebrate every creation. Whether it is a masterpiece or a “well, it’s got character.” Bring your imagination and tools and come carve out a little time for yourself with the Woodwackers. New members are always welcome!

Woodwackers meet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am to noon in the Creative Education Center at Artworks and is facilitated by George Melby.

Whether you are a seasoned painter or just dipping your bristles in for the first time, Brushstrokes is about sharing inspiration, swapping techniques, and celebrating the joy of making art together. Think of it as equal parts studio, playground, and creative jam session. Where happy accidents are masterpieces in disguise and every painting day ends with paint on your hands and a smile on your face.

Brushstrokes meets on the first Thursday of the month from 10am to noon in the Creative Education Center at Artworks and is facilitated by Cheryl Gould.

Whether you are a pro with perfect tension or a beginner still figuring out which end of the yarn is up, you will find a seat, a skein, and a smile waiting for you. Hook & Needle is all about friendship stitched together…one loop at a time.

Hook & Needle meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 1pm to 4pm on Artworks’ main level and on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 6pm to 8pm at Artworks’ lower level and is facilitated by Cathy Johnson.

We swap tips, share our latest shots, try new challenges, and occasionally debate the eternal question: Is it art, or did someone’s thumb photobomb again?

New members are always welcome. No experience required, just curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to point your lens at something interesting. Come join us and bring your best shots (or your funniest outtakes)!

Big Rapids Camera Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 6 to 7:30pm at Artworks’ lower level. BRCC is facilitated by Cathy Martin.

Competition divisions include: Solo ages 13-17 (with parental permission), solo ages 18 and up, and group (2-5 people of any age). This event is hosted by the FSU Fine Art Gallery in partnership with the Mecosta County Visitor’s Bureau, the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly, and Artworks. Contact anaphillips@ferris.edu with questions!

The Michigan Button Society Fall Show returns to Big Rapids this September with its 2026 theme, “A Wonderland of Buttons.” Held at the Holiday Inn Express Big Rapids, this unique Michigan event brings together collectors, history enthusiasts, artists, crafters, and curious visitors for a weekend celebrating buttons in all their forms.

And these aren't just the buttons hiding in your sewing drawer.

Explore displays featuring antique, vintage, and modern buttons, browse buttons available from dealers, and discover the craftsmanship, materials, stories, and history behind these tiny pieces of functional art. Michigan Button Society shows also offer educational opportunities and a chance to connect with collectors who are passionate about preserving the history of garment buttons, fasteners, and ornamentation.

A piece of Michigan history is getting new life! On Friday, September 18, 2026, the community is invited to Paris County Park to celebrate a major milestone for the Save the Ponds Project, an ongoing effort to restore and revitalize the park’s historic fish-rearing ponds for future generations.

The day begins with a Groundbreaking Ceremony at 3:00 PM, celebrating the funds raised and the awarding of the contract for the completion of Phases 1, 2 & 3 of the Save the Ponds Project.

The celebration continues that evening with a Community Celebration in the Park from 6:00–9:00 PM, featuring live music, food vendors & family-friendly fun. Vehicle entry fees will be waived for everyone attending the day's festivities.

A Piece of Michigan History

The ponds at Paris County Park have roots stretching back more than 140 years. The site was established in 1881 as Michigan's second-oldest fish-rearing agency and was expanded by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the 1930s.

After the fish-rearing operation closed in 1964, the property was acquired by the Mecosta County Park Commission in 1973 and opened as Paris County Park in 1976.

Today, the Save the Ponds initiative is working to preserve that history while creating a brighter future for this special Mecosta County destination.

Event Schedule

Groundbreaking Ceremony Date: Friday, September 18, 2026 Time: 3:00 PM Meeting Location: Paris Park Office 22250 Northland Drive Paris, MI 49338

Visitors attending the groundbreaking should report to the Paris Park Office to be directed to the ceremony location.

Community Celebration in the Park Time: 6:00–9:00 PM

Enjoy:

• Live music
• Food vendors
• Family-friendly activities
• A chance to celebrate the next chapter of the historic Paris fish-rearing ponds

Vehicle entry fees are waived for all attendees participating in the day's festivities.

Storytime is a welcoming way for little ones to build early literacy skills, move their bodies, use their imaginations & spend time with other families in the Big Rapids community.

Storytime takes place Wednesdays at 11:00 AM throughout September, with a few special storytime adventures planned during the month.

Dive into some of the state's most fascinating history during Michigan Mysteries at the Big Rapids Community Library with author and shipwreck hunter Ross Richardson of MichiganMysteries.com.

Richardson will take guests into the search for Michigan's missing ships and aircraft, exploring everything from shipwreck graveyards to squadrons of missing airplanes and the investigations that are finally providing answers to decades-old mysteries.

For Michigan history buffs, Great Lakes enthusiasts & anyone who can't resist a good mystery, this program offers a fascinating look at a side of the Mitten State you may not know.

The Big Rapids Community Library presents Movie Night at the Roben-Hood Airport, a free outdoor movie experience featuring a high-flying blockbuster that's right at home among the airplanes.

Here's your hint: after more than 30 years as one of the Navy's top aviators, a legendary pilot is still pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot. If you know, you know.

Bring your own chair, settle in under the evening sky & enjoy a unique movie night in Big Rapids.

Families can spend the afternoon creating their own backpack keychains, adding color, personality & a little extra flair to an everyday school essential.

This hands-on workshop offers families an easy way to slow down, create something together & head home with a project kids can actually use.

Children will use natural materials to build their own bug hotels, creating spaces where local pollinators and other beneficial backyard bugs can find shelter during the colder months.

Once the hotel is complete, take it home and place it in a backyard or garden. Then check back in a few days to discover which tiny guests decided to move in!

It's a hands-on way for kids to explore nature, learn about insects & discover how even the smallest backyard habitats can support the environment around them.

Registration is required

The Adult Art & Craft Workshop at the Big Rapids Community Library invites adults to spend the afternoon discovering the simple joy of rock painting.

Create colorful designs, florals, patterns or whatever inspiration strikes. Whether you're an experienced crafter or someone who hasn't picked up a paintbrush in years, this workshop is an easy opportunity to relax, try something creative & make something to take home.

Registration is Required.

Families can join Mr. Howard from the Big Rapids Community Library and members of the Big Rapids Police Department for Police Storytime at the Department of Public Safety.

Kids can enjoy stories while meeting some of the local officers who serve the Big Rapids community. It's a fun, approachable opportunity for young children to learn more about community helpers in a family-friendly setting.