Spring into adventure with a trio of unforgettable experiences across West Michigan. From the dazzling, after-dark magic of the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo—where illuminated dragons, phoenixes, and wildlife-inspired displays light the night—to the vibrant beauty of Butterflies are Blooming at Frederik Meijer Gardens, complete with lively Spring Nights featuring music, cocktails, and thousands of fluttering wings, there’s something for every mood. And don’t miss the excitement of Opening Day at Binder Park Zoo, where up-close animal encounters, including hand-feeding giraffes, and high-flying thrills set the stage for a season full of family fun.
John Ball Zoo Lantern Festival thru June 14, Wednesday thru Sundays and Tuesdays starting May 19; 7:30 - 11:30 p.m.
The beloved Grand Rapids Lantern Festival is open now and continues through June 14. This is a spectacular celebration of Chinese cultural artistry and guaranteed to leave you completely amazed. This breathtaking and beautiful showcase is an easy one-mile tour through the John Ball Zoo and everywhere you turn these handcrafted illuminated lanterns come alive as they intertwine the beauty of wildlife with profound Chinese traditions, complete with soaring and majestical dragons, towering phoenixes and colorful signs of the zodiac. Tickets are necessary and issued in 30-minute increments, but once you are in the zoo, take your time and traverse the paths at your leisure. Hours are Wednesday thru Sunday from 7:30 - 11:30 p.m. and Tuesday dates open up on May 19. And here’s a little insider tip - the later you go, the darker the night, the better the views!
Frederick Meijer Gardens Spring Nights Bourbon & Butterflies April 21 and 28th; 5:00 - 9:00 p.m; Butterflies are Blooming; now until April 30
The largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the United States is happening at Frederik Meijer Gardens now through the end of April. It’s such a unique experience to witness this living canvas of color and motion with Butterflies are Blooming, happening in the lush environment of the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. And you might want to come out for a really fun date night or hang-with-friends night on April 21 or April 28th. This event is called Spring Nights - Bourbon and Butterflies. Enjoy thousands of butterflies in flight while listening to live music from local artists, all while sipping on your favorite cocktails from a curated bar menu with the featured bourbon from Mammoth Distilling. So, bring your camera and experience the joy of watching these beautiful creatures at the numerous feeding stations and maybe even the thrill of having one land on your head!
Binder Park Zoo - April 22 Opening Day
Get ready—it’s Opening Day at the Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek, and the wild fun kicks off April 22! This isn’t just any zoo—it’s a full-on adventure. Explore award-winning exhibits and step into Wild Africa, where you’ll come face-to-face with incredible animals in a setting that feels just like their natural home. And don’t miss the fan favorite—the Twiga Overlook—where you can hand-feed towering giraffes and maybe even feel that famous long, black tongue reach out for a snack. It’s a moment you won’t forget! From cheetahs and snow leopards to red pandas, zebras, and lions, there’s something amazing around every corner. And if you’re ready to kick up the excitement, the ropes course and zip line bring the thrills for the whole family. The Binder Park Zoo is filled with adventure the moment you walk through the gate, so check back often for exciting and fun events all throughout the year!
