November Events-What to Do in Grand Rapids

(Updated for 2025) November is an odd month. Fall is fading away, and the anticipation for Christmas starts building. Darker nights and shorter days, can make homebodies out of people, but there is still a lot going on this month that you should put on your calendar to attend! Here are just a few of the events that look interesting!

Grand Rapids Comic Con (November 15-17)-Calling all nerds, geeks, and fandoms! Grand Rapids Comic Con is an annual event at the DeVos Place filled with cosplay, comics, celebrity appearances, and more! Special appearances from guests this year include Walter Koenig (Star Trek), Danny Trejo (Machete), Chris Sarandon (Princess Bride and Nightmare Before Christmas), Denise Crosby (Star Trek: Next Generation), and many others. There’s photo opportunities, costume contests, speakers, and much more!

International Wine, Beer, and Food Festival (November 21-23)-Take your taste buds on a trip around the world! There will be over 1,200 wines, beers, ciders, and spirits all in one location-DeVos Place! From the experienced wine taster to the novice, there is something for everyone! Not to mention, there will be food from some of the best restaurants around! Make it a date night or grab a group of friends for a fun night on the town!

Christkindl Market (Starts November 15)-Head to Downtown Market for a unique Christmas market experience! 30+ vendors, curling sessions, holiday entertainment, unique hot beverages, and family fun! Inspired by European Christmas markets, Christkindl, is a one-of-a-kind Christmas shopping experience in Grand Rapids.

Christmas Lite Show (TBD)-The annual Christmas Lite show kicks off this month! Running for the 26th season, this is Michigan’s largest animated light show! A great way to get in the Christmas spirit!

This year, there is a new Christmas Show at Deer Track Junction in Cedar Springs! Starting on Thanksgiving, make your way through their drive-thru magical light show. You can find more details as they come out here.

There are lots of other fun events related to fall and the Holidays happening this month. Our favorite resource for staying informed on events around town is Experience GR. The number of events and experiences in Grand Rapids is one of our favorite parts of living here. If you’re looking to live somewhere that has small-town vibes, with big-city amenities, Grand Rapids is the place! We know the Grand Rapids real estate market inside and out and can help you find a home anywhere in the greater Grand Rapids area! Contact us to get started on your homebuying journey.