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"Grand Rapids Thrives: Best-Run City, $1.5M Medical Debt Erased, Macy Gray at Pride, Invasive Elm Sawfly Alert!"

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"Grand Rapids Thrives: Best-Run City, $1.5M Medical Debt Erased, Macy Gray at Pride, Invasive Elm Sawfly Alert!"

"Grand Rapids Thrives: Best-Run City, $1.5M Medical Debt Erased, Macy Gray at Pride, Invasive Elm Sawfly Alert!"
"Grand Rapids Thrives: Best-Run City, Medical Debt Erased, Macy Gray at Pride, Elm Tree Protection, Monopoly Live, Morrison Lake Paradise, & More! Upcoming Events Inside!"

Gerry Tablada

Jun 24, 2026

The article discusses Grand Rapids being named the best-run city in Michigan by WalletHub.

Factors contributing to this ranking include strong financial stability, efficient city services, and overall quality of life.

The city's low unemployment rate and high credit rating were highlighted in the study.

Grand Rapids was also recognized for effective budgeting and management practices.

Overall, the city's careful financial planning and well-managed services have contributed to its reputation as a well-run city in Michigan.

Read More...
A non-profit in Michigan has helped erase medical debt for nearly 72,000 residents in the state.

The organization, RIP Medical Debt, partnered with local philanthropists to purchase $1.5 million in medical debts for only $15,000.

This program is part of the organization's efforts to relieve financial burdens on low-income families in the state.

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Grammy winner Macy Gray closed out the Grand Rapids Pride Festival weekend with a soulful performance on Sunday.

The event drew a large crowd and featured a variety of activities and entertainment throughout the weekend.

Gray's set included hits like "I Try" and "Beauty in the World," delighting the audience with her powerful vocals and engaging stage presence.

The festival celebrated diversity and inclusion, providing a space for the LGBTQ community and allies to come together and enjoy music, food, and fun.

Read More...
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The article reports the detection of the invasive European elm sawfly in Michigan for the first time.

The sawfly larvae feed on leaves of elm trees, potentially causing defoliation and damage to the trees.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is working to assess the extent of the infestation and determine control measures.

Residents are urged to report any sightings of the sawfly to help monitor and control its spread to protect the state's elm trees.

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Morrison Lake, located between Grand Rapids and Lansing in Michigan, offers opportunities for fishing, golfing, and RC racing.

The lake is known for its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can also enjoy nearby golf courses and a RC racing park, providing a variety of recreational activities for all ages.

Whether it's casting a line, hitting the links, or racing RC cars, Morrison Lake provides a picturesque setting for outdoor fun in the heart of Michigan.

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Evolution Gaming has launched Monopoly Live in Michigan from its new studio in Grand Rapids.

This expansion increases the popular game's presence in the state and allows players to enjoy the interactive experience.

The Grand Rapids studio features cutting-edge technology and creates an immersive environment for players to enjoy Monopoly Live, a unique online game that combines elements of the classic board game with live casino entertainment.

This launch highlights Evolution Gaming's commitment to providing innovative and engaging gaming experiences to players in Michigan and beyond.

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πŸ—“οΈ Upcoming Events — Grand Rapids & West Michigan
June 23–30, 2026

 

1. Larkin Poe + The Record Company at Meijer Gardens (Grand Rapids)
πŸ“… Wednesday, June 24
πŸ“ Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater, 1000 E. Beltline Ave NE
🎟️ $58 members | $63 public β€” axs.com/MeijerGardens
πŸ“„ Grammy-nominated sister duo Larkin Poe joins The Record Company for a night of bluesy, Americana-fueled rock at West Michigan's most beloved outdoor amphitheater. A first-time performance at the venue β€” don't sleep on this one. Local SpinsLocal Spins

 


2. Holland Pride Festival (Holland)
πŸ“… Saturday, June 27
πŸ•’ 1:00 PM
πŸ“ Kollen Park, Holland
🎟️ Free
πŸ“„ Holland Pride Festival comes to Kollen Park for a colorful, community-centered celebration on the shores of Lake Macatawa. A joyful afternoon of music, community connection, and lakeshore views β€” all are welcome. AllEvents

 

3. 65th Annual Grand Haven Art Festival (Grand Haven)
πŸ“… Friday, June 26 – Sunday, June 28
πŸ•’ Fri 12–5 PM | Sat 10 AM–5 PM | Sun 11 AM–4 PM
πŸ“ Washington Avenue, Downtown Grand Haven
🎟️ Free admission
πŸ“„ The Grand Haven Art Festival is celebrating 65 years of art and community in 2026, bringing nearly 80 artists from across the nation to downtown Grand Haven for a three-day outdoor gallery. Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 27 from 10 AM to 2 PM features kids' activities and food for the whole crew. A perfect lakeside weekend outing. FOX 17Grand Haven Chamber

 


4. Lakeshore Art Festival (Muskegon)
πŸ“… Saturday, June 27 – Sunday, June 28
πŸ•’ 9 AM – 5 PM
πŸ“ Downtown Muskegon, 380 W. Western Ave. & Hackley Park
🎟️ Free admission
πŸ“„ The Lakeshore Art Festival packs downtown Muskegon with nearly 250 booths of fine art and artisan makers, delicious bites from local food vendors, and lively street performers β€” plus a dedicated Children's Lane with hands-on activities for all ages. Ranked #11 in the nation and #1 in Michigan for craft shows by Sunshine Artist Magazine, this one draws 30,000+ visitors and is well worth the short drive west. City of MuskegonLakeshoreartfestival

 


5. An Evening with Little Feat – The Last Farewell Tour (Grand Rapids)
πŸ“… Sunday, June 28
πŸ“ Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater, 1000 E. Beltline Ave NE
🎟️ $75 members | $80 public β€” axs.com/MeijerGardens
πŸ“„ Little Feat brings their farewell tour to the Meijer Gardens stage for what promises to be a bittersweet, celebratory sendoff from one of rock's most enduring acts. The ivy-covered amphitheater is the perfect setting for a goodbye worth remembering. Local Spins

 


6. Kalamazoo Caribbean Festival (Kalamazoo)
πŸ“… Friday, June 26 – Saturday, June 27
πŸ“ Downtown Kalamazoo
🎟️ Check Facebook for ticketing details
πŸ“„ The Kalamazoo Caribbean Festival brings the flavors, music, and culture of the Caribbean to downtown Kalamazoo for a vibrant two-day celebration. An easy hour-long drive south of Grand Rapids β€” and a great excuse to make a full day of it in Kalamazoo. Explore Michigan

 

7. Latvian Song & Dance Festival β€” Opening Weekend (Grand Rapids)
πŸ“… July 1–5 (plan ahead β€” it starts this week!)
πŸ“ Various venues, Downtown Grand Rapids
🎟️ dziesmusvetki.us
πŸ“„ Grand Rapids is proudly hosting the Latvian Song & Dance Festival for the first time in 2026, bringing concerts, dance performances, art exhibitions, and other community events to various downtown venues β€” including a 500-person choir and 750-member dance troupe. A once-in-a-generation cultural event right in our backyard. Experience Grand Rapids

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Β© 2026 The Grand Rapids Vibe.

The Grand Rapids Vibe is your ultimate guide to everything happening in Grand Rapids, Michigan. From local news, upcoming events, and business updates to cultural happenings and community stories, we bring you the latest buzz from this dynamic city. Stay in the loop with The Grand Rapids Vibe, your go-to source for all things GR.

Β© 2026 The Grand Rapids Vibe.