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.
-
Contributed/Gary PayneThe Cultural Thursday series continues April 9, 2026, at Central Lakes College in Brainerd. Educators Gary Payne and Mary Rosenberg will share their Argentina travel experiences. -
Contributed / National Park ServiceBlack bears emerge from hibernation in the spring across MN. Andy Tri, DNR bear project leader, shares what's happening inside bear dens and how to be "bear wise" this season. -
Events this week include the Classic Movie Series in Bigfork, Train Days in Bemidji and a photo presentation on Argentina in Brainerd. -
Andrew Dziengel/KAXE“Area Voices” hit the road to visit the annual five-day Ely Film Festival. Andrew Dziengel talked with the festival’s director and program director. -
Events this week include a trivia night in Chisholm, presentation on Argentina in Brainerd and a webinar on waterbirds.
-
Contributed/Brainerd Public SchoolsBrainerd Public Schools Legendary Women Hall of Fame will induct five new members on March 30, 2026. -
Contributed/Jenny SommernessBemidji State University Talley Gallery's featured exhibit is “Cyrus Swann: Artist.” Mitch Blessing joined “Area Voices” to discuss Swann’s work and artistic legacy. -
Contributed/Lutheran Social ServiceLutheran Social Service is looking for people ages 55 or older to serve as foster grandparents in area schools or as companions to older adults. -
Contributed/Shannon Lucas WestrumShannon Lucas and Jesse Westrum's “Wanderlust and Willow” at the Bagley Public Library features willow weaving baskets and photography from a recent trip to Ireland. -
They are also the only native Minnesota birds in the "perching duck" tribe, which is distinguished by their long, clawed toes — perfect for perching in trees.
