You don’t have to stay at home crying over your friend’s concert videos if you’re looking to save some dough this month. In fact, West Michigan has a plethora of music events that offer free (or nearly free) admission. Take the money you’d spend on that concert and set it aside in savings for a larger music festival in 2019.
Free Evening Music: The Old Goat
2434 Eastern Ave. SE, Grand Rapids
facebook.com/oldgoatgr
The Old Goat is a local favorite in the Alger Heights Neighborhood for its German food and amazing cocktails.It frequently features local artists like the Bierkeller Boys Oompah Band, Andrew Brown’s Hot Jazz Trio and AB & Friends.
Creston Vibes: Creston Brewery
1504 Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids
crestonbrewery.com
This bi-monthly series is not the typical open mic session. Participants follow a theme for each show, making each one completely different from the next. From lyrical poetry to music to slightly offensive comedy, it all depends on where the session goes.
Free Music Events:
Founders Brewing Co.
235 Grandville Ave. SW, Grand Rapids
foundersbrewing.com
Founders is a great spot to catch live music. While some of its events are ticketed, the tap room does host numerous free music nights throughout the year. Check Facebook or their website for taproom event details.
Smooth Jazz Sunday: Pike 51 Brewery
3768 Chicago Dr., Hudsonville
Every Sunday, 12 p.m.
hudsonvillewinery.com
Head to Pike 51 Brewery in Hudsonville every Sunday and join Lew Russ and 103.5 WAWL for a two-hour live jazz session. Food and drink specials include $1 off draft beer and wine slushies and discounted brunch menu items.
Friday Live Music: Hops at 84 East
84 E. 8th St., Holland
Friday, 8 p.m.
hops84east.com
Take a seat at the bar, order a pizza and enjoy free music from a variety of bands across the area at Hops at 84 East in Holland. Check the Facebook page for details on what bands are playing.
Live Jazz: Mixology
235 Louis St. NW, Grand Rapids
Every Saturday, 7-10 p.m.
ilovethejw.com
Enjoy free music every Saturday night in the gorgeous lobby lounge overlooking the beautiful Grand River. Sip on specialty coffee and cocktails and snack on savory bites from six.one.six. No cover charges!
Sangria and Live Music: Zoko 822
822 Ottawa Ave. NW, Grand Rapids
Every Wednesday, 6 p.m.
zoko822.com
One of the best newer restaurants in the area, Zoko 822 has a wide gin menu with a tasty selection of tapas. Stop in for free music every Wednesday and $5 sangria!
Vinyl Night:
Harmony Brewing Company
1551 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids
Thursdays, 9 p.m.
harmonybeer.com
Snag a beer at happy hour prices and chill out to hi-fi vinyl sets by rotating DJs. Check Facebook for event details.
