From experimental film and spicy food festivals to floral showcases and family-friendly theater, the final full weekend of January offers a wide range of events across Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Here’s a look at what’s happening.

Friday, January 23, 2026

63rd Ann Arbor Film Festival Traveling Tour
Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids
7:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM)

The oldest avant-garde and experimental film festival in North America brings a curated selection of short films to Grand Rapids. The traveling tour features works from filmmakers around the world and includes two programs with an intermission. Admission is free.

More info:
https://grpl.bibliocommons.com/events/6939a1f9ddf56328002030a3

Saturday, January 24, 2026

Beer City Pepper Fest
Fat Baby Hot Sauce at The Intersection
1:00 AM – 8:00 PM
(Sessions: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM and 4:00 PM–8:00 PM)

Beer City Pepper Fest celebrates chili and spice in all forms with food trucks, vendors, music, and local artists. Proceeds benefit mental health advocacy organizations Embracing Imperfections, 4:40, and I Understand, supporting suicide prevention and community care.

More info:
https://fatbabyhotsauce.com/pages/beer-city-pepper-fest

Winter Bridal Show of West Michigan
DeVos Place Convention Center
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Engaged couples can meet local wedding professionals all in one place, including venues, photographers, florists, caterers, planners, and more. The event offers inspiration, giveaways, samples, and show-only specials designed to simplify the planning process.

More info:
https://michiganwomensexpos.ticketspice.com/winter-bridal-show-of-west-michigan-2026

Bedtime Stories (As Told By Our Dad Who Messed Them Up)
East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center
7:00 PM

East Grand Rapids High School presents a playful, family-friendly winter production that puts a humorous spin on classic fairy tales. The show is well-suited for young audiences and fans of lighthearted storytelling.

More info:
https://egrhspac.ludus.com/index.php?sections=events

All Weekend

Orchid Show
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Presented by the Grand Valley Orchid Society

Winter blooms take center stage as orchid clubs from across Michigan transform the Gardens’ indoor spaces with colorful and intricate displays. The annual Orchid Show highlights the diversity and beauty of orchids during the heart of winter.

More info:
https://www.meijergardens.org/events/orchid-show-presented-by-the-grand-valley-orchid-society/?occurrence=2026-01-24&time=1769245200

Conclusion

Whether you’re drawn to experimental film, hands-on wedding planning, bold flavors, or family-friendly performances, this weekend offers something for nearly every interest. With both free and ticketed events happening throughout the city, it’s a solid stretch of winter programming worth adding to the calendar.