Grand Rapids, we’re getting dangerously close to Halloween, and the city is making sure you have plenty of ways to celebrate.
This week brings a big college basketball showdown to Van Andel Arena, a zoo full of costumed characters, two nights of Griffins hockey, and enough concerts and seasonal events to keep your calendar busy.
And somewhere around town, eight ghosts are still waiting to be discovered.
Here’s your week in GR!
BIG-TIME BASKETBALL COMES TO GR! 🏀
The Battleground 2K26 | Sunday, October 25 | 1 PM | Van Andel Arena
You don’t have to drive to Ann Arbor to see the Michigan Wolverines take the court this weekend.
Two nationally recognized college basketball programs are coming to downtown Grand Rapids as Michigan faces the Houston Cougars in The Battleground 2K26.
It’s an early-season exhibition matchup featuring two programs with championship ambitions, and a rare chance to experience this level of college basketball right here in GR.
The event also has a charitable component focused on making a difference for local kids.
If you’re a college basketball fan, this is the one to circle.
THE ZOO IS GETTING SPOOKY! 🎃
Zoo Goes Boo | October 23–25 | 10 AM–5 PM | John Ball Zoo
The animals aren’t the only characters you’ll encounter at John Ball Zoo this weekend.
Zoo Goes Boo is back with costumes, trick-or-treating, Halloween decorations, magicians, fire dancers, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
Thirteen treat stations are scattered throughout the zoo, giving kids a chance to fill their candy bags while exploring their favorite animal habitats.
Costumes are encouraged for everyone, including adults.
Admission: $22.95 for adults, $16.95 for youth and seniors. Zoo members receive free admission. Members can enter beginning at 9 AM, with general admission starting at 10 AM.
Bring your costume, your candy bag, and your best Halloween spirit.
HAVE YOU FOUND YOUR GHOSTS YET? 👻
Ghosts on the Grand | Now through October 31
Eight ghosts. Seven local businesses. One city full of secrets.
Ghosts on the Grand continues this week, and there’s still time to join the hunt.
City Games has brought eight fictional characters from different eras of Grand Rapids history back from the beyond.
Your mission? Discover their stories, complete challenges, collect clues, and track them down around town.
You’ll encounter characters like Furniture Frankie, the mysterious factory owner with a hidden speakeasy, and Disco Dot, whose story takes you back to the dance floors of the 1970s.
Best of all, your adventure begins at local businesses that have opened their doors to these wandering spirits.
A special shout-out to our participating locations:
Oh, Hello Co. • The 12th House GR • Big Bob’s Pizza • SpeakEZ Lounge • Chicago Beef Joint • Rewind GR • Sugar Bar
Play whenever you want, explore at your own pace, and see how many ghosts you can find before Halloween.
THE NO FOMO LIST
Seven more things worth putting on your calendar.
🍳 MONDAY: An Evening with Alton Brown
October 19 | 7:30 PM | DeVos Performance Hall
The Good Eats star brings his trademark mix of cooking, comedy, science, and storytelling to Grand Rapids. Expect some surprises and a little culinary chaos.
🎸 THURSDAY: Austin Snell, Colors Tour 2026
October 22 | 7:30 PM | Elevation at The Intersection
The rising country-rock artist brings his Colors Tour to Grand Rapids, with support from Atlus. Doors open at 6:30 PM.
🎶 FRIDAY: Judah & the Lion
October 23 | 7:30 PM | The Intersection
The Nashville-based alternative band brings its blend of folk, rock, and high-energy live music to Grand Rapids.
🏒 FRIDAY & SATURDAY: Griffins Hockey Weekend
October 23–24 | 7 PM | Van Andel Arena
The Griffins host the Cleveland Monsters for back-to-back games. Friday includes a team calendar giveaway and an Oktoberfest ticket package.
🎸 SATURDAY: Sleeping With Sirens
October 24 | 6 PM | GLC Live at 20 Monroe
The post-hardcore favorites bring their An Ending In Itself Tour downtown for a loud Saturday night.
🎃 SATURDAY: Hallowee-Ones at Meijer Gardens
October 24 | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
A family-friendly Halloween outing at one of West Michigan’s favorite attractions. Check the Gardens’ calendar for the day’s parade and programming details.
🛍️ SUNDAY: Grand Rapids Fall Home Show
October 25 | DeVos Place
Looking for home improvement ideas before winter? Browse exhibits and connect with vendors at the Fall Home Show.
DON’T LET OCTOBER SLIP AWAY
There are only two weekends left before Halloween, and Grand Rapids has plenty of ways to make them count.
Take the kids somewhere fun. Catch a show. Cheer on a team. Explore a neighborhood you haven’t visited lately.
Or spend an afternoon hunting ghosts.
Whatever you choose, make a little time to enjoy the city.
See you around town!
Toby
My GR Week
Event schedules and availability can change. Check the linked organizers before heading out.