Nov 15 Sunday
Changes over the course of the nineteenth century in how Americans voted, from voice vote to public ballot box to private voting booth, also saw changes in the material culture that surrounded voting. Ballots and ballot boxes, campaign pins and ribbons, blank lists and pre-printed party tickets, lanterns and banners–the creative forces of the American print industry filled the country’s cities and small towns with the ephemera of electioneering.
As you look at the items in this exhibit, think about what they tell us about how Americans in the past felt about voting, and about how voting felt. How did Election Days feel when they were full of parades and music and public drinking? What was it like to vote when everyone around you knew who you voted for? And, most of all, who counted as a voter, and who did the counting?
On view September 11-December 22, weekdays from 12-4 pm.
Nov 16 Monday
Nov 17 Tuesday
Join Percy Jackson, Annabeth, Grover, and the gods of Mount Olympus on an epic adventure inspired by Greek mythology. Students will build acting skills, creativity, and confidence while exploring themes of identity, teamwork, and bravery through imaginative storytelling and ensemble play.
Nov 18 Wednesday
Storytime with Programs Director, Janice Wilks! Every Wednesday from 10:30am – 11:30am Storytime will be followed by activities designed for children with developmental differences. We will never tell your child to hush or stop wiggling. Physically-distanced with stringent health and safety protocols being followed. Takes place at our office: 2505 Ardmore St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. Every family leaves with a free book and a snack! If you plan on attending, please RSVP with the form below so we can make sure there’s enough goodies to go around.
Nov 19 Thursday
Nov 20 Friday
The Michigan State Numismatic Society celebrates its 70th Annual Fall Coin Show and Convention with three days of free coins, exhibits and family activities. Admission and parking are free.
Over 100 dealer tables of coins, paper money, tokens and medals, with dealers from all over the country. Visitors are welcome to bring coins or other collectibles to sell or to have evaluated. Competitive adult and junior exhibits, free educational talks, ANACS coin submissions taken at the show, an online auction, and free activities for kids ages 4–17 all weekend.
Special guest Bob Evans, chief scientist and co-discoverer of the gold rush-era steamship S.S. Central America, gives a free talk Friday at 1 p.m., leads a hands-on science session for young collectors Saturday at 1 p.m., and shows his award-winning recovery display all weekend.
Hours: Friday, Nov. 20, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (MSNS members admitted early, 10 a.m.); Saturday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 22, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. The venue is fully wheelchair-accessible.
Details: michigancoinclub.org/convention
STAHLS’ Power Play for Heroes returns for its 10th annual charity hockey game Friday, November 20, 2026, at SCS Civic Arena. Doors open at 7 p.m. as the Detroit Red Wings Alumni face Team STAHLS’ in a celebration of local veterans benefiting Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. The nonprofit provides veterans and first responders with individually trained service dogs for PTSD, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, mobility issues and more, at no cost to recipients. Before the game, local veterans will be honored on the ice and presented with customized jerseys. The lineup features four-time Stanley Cup champion Darren McCarty and other Red Wings Alumni, plus Team STAHLS’ guest Brad Galli. Former NHL Zamboni driver Al Sobotka will lead the Octo-Toss. Between periods, meet 1984 World Series champion Lance Parrish, nine-time Sports Emmy winner Mike “Doc” Emrick and Fritz “Old Time Hawkey,” known for rustic cooking and outdoor videos. Fans can enjoy auctions, memorabilia, apparel, trophy photos, raffles, face painting and more. BBQ Daddy will serve favorites, including DMac and cheese, with adult beverages and concessions available. Tickets are available online or at the door; children 10 and under are free. Join us to honor our heroes and support the life-changing work of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.