GRAND RAPIDS — The first Friday of the month is upon us once again, and in downtown Grand Rapids, that means celebrating the arts!
Here's what's happening 4-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3.
Stained Glass with Class
Alyssa Olson will display her modern clay jewelry.
Giinawind Creative Space
This space next door to the MacRostie Art Center will host a reception for the artists of the Animikii Print Club, whose artwork is featured in the Giinawind Gallery.
MacRostie Art Center
The gallery celebrates the opening of “Thinking About My Thinking,” an exhibit of watercolor paintings by Diane Levar. The reception will include food, wine and other beverages and an artist talk at 6 p.m.
Bender's Shoes & Gifts
Bender's welcomes Jenny Farber of Chaotic Beauty Artistry. Jenny is a wood-burning and watercolor artist based in Grand Rapids, and she'll have handmade earrings, magnets and wall decor available.
Old Central School
Studio 001
Stop by the Garden Level, where artist Lea Friesen will be demonstrating monotype printmaking.
Artists in the Attic
Visit the third floor artists in residence: Nelia Harper, Krista Rogers and Leah Yellowbird. Guest artist Serenity Barden from Hibbing will display her abstract paintings.
North in Bloom
North in Bloom has a "Bloom-tique" with Kayla of Sew Festive. Get a jump on holiday shopping with in-store promos and unique embroidery gifts and more from Sew Festive.
Rapids Brewing Co.
The brewery welcomes musician Charley Wagner beginning at 6:30 p.m.
VFW Post No. 1720
Sam Miltich and Friends perform an evening of jazz music 7-9 p.m.
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Events this week include storytelling at Long Lake Conservation Center and kick sledding at Lake Bemidji State Park. -
Andrew Dziengel/KAXE“Area Voices” is a segment on the KAXE Morning Show that focuses on the art and history of Northern Minnesota. Host Andrew Dziengel looks back at some highlights in 2025. -
Jennifer Barr/KAXE"Bright Spot" is a segment on the KAXE Morning Show that highlights the good happening in Northern Minnesota. Host Jennifer Barr looks back at some favorites from 2025. -
contributed/LPcorp.comBrian Gulseth and Jerry Asmus from LP discuss SmartSide products, made from local aspen. The "Forest products" series is produced by Mark Jacobs. -
Events Up North Dec. 23-Jan. 5: Kids' New Year's celebration in Brainerd, storytelling near PalisadeEvents over the next two weeks include two activities at Lake Bemidji State Park, a hockey tournament in Baxter and the First Friday Art Walk in Grand Rapids.
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Contributed/Sarah StewartFor the fourth time, Bemidji High School students are participating in the Empty Bowls project at the Wild Hare in Bemidji. Teacher Sarah Stewart talks about the project and why it’s important for students to get involved. -
Andrew Dziengel/KAXEThroughout 2025, the Beltrami County History Center had classes and exhibits featuring local women artists. A reception and sale is planned in early 2026. -
Lorie ShaullKAXE staff and hosts give ideas for holiday gifts inspired by KAXE and nature. -
Contributed/Smiles for JakeThe Jake Haapajoki Memorial Cup is Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, in Baxter. Funds raised will go toward scholarships for students entering the mental health field. -
Jennifer Barr/KAXEThis week, we asked about your holiday cookie favorites and traditions. We also had a special in-studio guest on "What's for Breakfast." Nancy Shaw not only talked cookies, but brought a plate in to KAXE!
