🌟 Celebrations of Light in Our Community: Kwanzaa

📅 Date & Time: Sunday, December 29, 2024

Open House: Starts at 3:00 PM
Show: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

📍 Location:
Empire Arts Center

Celebrate the vibrant traditions of Kwanzaa with an afternoon of music, drums, art, and snacks!.

🎟️ This event is free and open to all! Bring your family and friends to join in the celebration

🌟 Celebrations of Light in Our Community: Yule & Winter Solstice 🌞

📅 Date & Time:
Sunday, December 22, 2024
⏰ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

📍 Location:
Empire Arts Center

Join us for a cozy and magical celebration of the Winter Solstice and Yule! Discover the science behind the shortest day of the year and learn about mid-winter traditions that honor the return of the light. You’ll also hear the mythical tale of the Holly King and the Oak King, whose eternal battle symbolizes the changing seasons.

After the program, stay for a time of “feasting”, a heartwarming Yule tradition to bring people together and celebrate the season!

🎟️ This event is free and open to all!

🎄 The Empire Community Orchestra Christmas Concert

📅 Date: Saturday, December 21st
🕒 Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Empire Arts Center

Celebrate the season with the Empire Community Orchestra as they present a delightful Christmas concert filled with holiday classics and festive cheer!

A Magical Medora Christmas

📅 Date: Saturday, December 21st
🕒 Time: 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center, 3475 University Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58202
🎟 Cost: $43

Back by popular demand, the award-winning Magical Medora Christmas show returns to the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center! This beloved holiday tradition delights audiences with:

✨ Talented Performers: Musicians and vocalists from across the U.S. bring your favorite Christmas carols to life alongside original holiday music.
✨ Family-Friendly Fun: Enjoy special acts filled with humor, tricks, and magic for an unforgettable festive experience.
✨ Unmatched Holiday Spirit: This heartwarming show is guaranteed to put you and your loved ones in the Christmas mood!

Celebrate the season with a performance that has charmed thousands across the region. Don’t miss out on this cherished holiday event!

Christmas Pajama Jam

🎄✨ A Night of Holiday Laughter! ✨🎄

Put on your coziest pajamas and join Nine and Numb: Grand Forks and Mental Worx Theatre Company for a festive evening of fun and laughter at the Empire Arts Center!

Event Details:
📅 Date: Friday, December 20th
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Empire Arts Center, Grand Forks, ND

This family-friendly holiday comedy show is perfect for all ages, with plenty of laughs to get you in the holiday spirit. Enjoy hilarious performances, festive fun, and a cozy night out with your loved ones!

Tickets:
🎟 Adults: $10
🎟 Children under 16: $5

🎫 Get your tickets here!

Sing-Along Messiah at St. Michael's Catholic School

An Annual Holiday Tradition

Join the Grand Forks Master Chorale and the Global Friends Coalition for an unforgettable evening of music and community as they present Handel's Messiah! This interactive performance invites you to sing along with the choruses of this timeless masterpiece.

Event Details:
📅 Date: Wednesday, December 18th
🕢 Time: 7:30 PM
📍 Location: St. Michael's Catholic School, 504 5th Ave N, Grand Forks, ND 58203

Featuring Soloists:

• Karly Ritland

• Julie Yi

• Evan Montgomery

• Jeremy Schmaltz

Admission is free and open to the public.

Curtain Up! The GGFSO Goes to Broadway

📅 Date: Sunday, December 15
🕝 Time: 2:30 PM
📍 Location: East Grand Forks Senior High Performing Arts Center
1420 4th Ave NW, East Grand Forks, MN 56721

Join the Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra for a dazzling afternoon of Broadway favorites in their performance, Curtain Up! The GGFSO Goes to Broadway.

🎵 Event Highlights:

• A journey through Broadway hits, featuring selections from beloved musicals like Wicked, Annie, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, and more!

• Music by legendary composers Andrew Lloyd Webber, Richard Rodgers, Frederick Loewe, and others.

• A special performance by the Young Artist Concerto Competition Winner as the featured soloist.

Arts for Vets Holiday Show

Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Grand Forks Arts Center, 215 N 3rd Street, Grand Forks, ND

Join us for a festive day of holiday cheer at the Arts for Vets Holiday Show! Explore unique gifts, fine art, crafts, jewelry, live music, sweet treats, and more.

Admission: Free and open to the public.

Celebrate the Season at the Grand Cities Mall Craft & Vendor Show!

The holidays are fast approaching, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by shopping local! Join us for a jolly day of holiday shopping, festive fun, and supporting talented local crafters and vendors. This one-of-a-kind event brings together a dazzling array of artisans and small businesses, all under one roof, offering unique gifts and seasonal finds for everyone on your list.

🌲Date: December 14, 2024
⏰Time: 9 AM - 4 PM
📍Location: Grand Cities Mall

What to Expect:

🎁Local Crafters: Browse through an enchanting selection of handcrafted goods that are perfect for the season. From sparkling jewelry to cozy home decor, these one-of-a-kind creations make the perfect gifts for loved ones—or a treat for yourself!
🎅Unique Vendors: Explore a variety of unique products and services from local vendors. Whether you're searching for seasonal fashion accessories, delightful holiday décor, or personalized gifts, you're sure to find something special to make your season bright.
🎉Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the whole family for a day of festive shopping, entertainment, and sweet seasonal treats. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and full of holiday cheer—perfect for making memories with your loved ones.
🌲Support Local Businesses: This holiday season, give the gift of supporting local! By attending the Grand Cities Mall Craft & Vendor Show, you're not only discovering fantastic items but also helping to sustain small businesses and entrepreneurs in our community. Shop with purpose and spread some festive goodwill!
🅿️Ample Parking: Convenient parking makes it easy to shop and explore all the wonderful offerings at the Grand Cities Mall. Spend the whole day indulging in the holiday magic!

Mark your calendars and join us for a joyful day of shopping, connecting with local businesses, and soaking up the cheerful community spirit at the Grand Cities Mall Craft & Vendor Show. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday season!

Follow us on Facebook at Grand Cities Pop Up Shopping for event updates, sneak peeks, and holiday surprises!

VISUAL ART, MUSIC & MORE!

Join us in downtown Grand Forks for an unforgettable night of art, music, and community spirit! Explore a variety of local businesses showcasing stunning visual and multimedia art, live music, and much more.

Featured Venues:

• Arts For Vets: 215 N. 3rd Street, Suite 100, Grand Forks, ND 58201

• Empire Arts Center: 415 Demers Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201

• Pillsbury Park: 316 Kittson Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201

This vibrant event is free and perfect for families, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Plus, make sure to head to the Empire Arts Center by 7:40 PM to enter our exciting prize draw!

Don't miss this chance to celebrate the arts and connect with the community. We can't wait to see you there!

Dec. 8 ROCKIN’ Holiday Show -Empire Arts Center, G Forks!

David K’s Rock & Roll Holiday Show, 1pm Sun. Dec. 8

ROY ORBISON, ELVIS, BUDDY HOLLY, JERRY LEE LEWIS, DEL SHANNON - $20 TICKET. Empire Arts Center, Grand Forks, ND

ROCK to legendary tunes & a some Holiday hits! Songs that touched your hearts ~ 

Celebrate the holidays with all your rock & roll legends! David K portrays Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis & Elton John! Charlie Templin as Del Shannon and Elvis Presley! Rock to endless legendary hits and some rockin’ holiday greats like Run Run Rudolph, Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, Blue Christmas, White Christmas and more. David K sings Roy’s multi-octave range beautifully and this band rocks with real string arts just like the records. The whole band adds some backing vocals and they switch off on instruments. It’ll be a talented party and a fabulous show in the gorgeous Empire Arts Center located at 415 Demers Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201. Get tickets early, this will be one of Grand Forks most festive and fun holiday events of the season! 

TICKETS: Call 701-746-5500 for info or go to www.empireartscenter.com

Concert of Christmas and Mid-Winter Carols and Songs
Featuring the O'Neil Family Band

Join us for an enchanting afternoon of Christmas and mid-winter music with the O'Neil Family Band! This talented group will share a collection of carols and songs rooted in folk traditions, some dating back to the 12th century. Experience the warmth and spirit of the season through the sounds of guitar, fiddle, concertina, banjo, and beautiful harmonies.

Date: Saturday, December 7th
Time: 2:00 to 3:00 pm
Location: East Grand Forks Senior Center
538 Rhinehart Drive S.E., East Grand Forks, MN

Admission: Donations at the Door

Come celebrate the season with traditional tunes and festive cheer. This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages!

Just For Kix Winter Show
📅 Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Empire Arts Center, 415 DeMers Avenue, Grand Forks, ND 58201

🎟 Tickets (available at the door):

• $12 for adults

• $10 for students

• Free for kids 5 & under

UND Winter wUNDerland Family Holiday Concert

🎄 Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
🎶 Time: 1:30 PM
📍 Location: Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center
3475 University Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58202

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with the UND Winter wUNDerland Family Holiday Concert! Featuring the talented UND Music choral ensembles, this festive performance brings a variety of meaningful and heartwarming songs to life. Perfect for all ages, this event promises an afternoon filled with joy, music, and holiday spirit.

Admission: Open to the public.

Art Lab

🎨 Unleash Your Creativity! 🎨
Join us at the East Grand Forks Campbell Library for Art Lab, a hands-on event where you can explore a variety of art tools and techniques to create your very own masterpiece to take home.

📅 Date & Time: Saturday, December 7, 2024 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: East Grand Forks Campbell Library, 422 4th St NW, East Grand Forks, MN 56721
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who’s Invited? Everyone! All ages are welcome to join the fun.

This event is free and open to the public—no prior experience needed! Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday, this event is perfect for all.

UND Chamber Orchestra Concert
Join us for an unforgettable evening with the UND Chamber Orchestra at the Hughes Fine Arts Center. Immerse yourself in a captivating performance showcasing the talent and artistry of UND's finest musicians.

📍 Location: Hughes Fine Arts Center, 3350 Campus Rd, Grand Forks, ND 58202
📅 Date & Time: Wednesday, December 4th, 7:30pm

Can’t make it in person? Enjoy the concert from the comfort of your home with our live stream at und.edu/music/stream.

UND Wind Ensemble Concert
Join us for an unforgettable evening with the UND Wind Ensemble at the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center. Immerse yourself in a captivating performance showcasing the talent and artistry of UND's finest musicians.

📍 Location: Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center, 3475 University Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58202
📅 Date & Time: Tuesday, December 3rd, 7:30pm

Can’t make it in person? Enjoy the concert from the comfort of your home with our live stream at und.edu/music/stream.

The Empire’s Music Box- Syncopation Station, OWL Rock Band, Dave Villarreal Group
🗓️ Saturday, November 30, 2024 | 7:00–10:00 PM
📍 Empire Arts Center, 415 Demers Ave, Grand Forks, ND

Interested in live, local music?

Check out the Empire’s Music Box concert! Featuring Syncopation Station, OWL Rock Band, and Dave Villarreal Group.

$10 All seats- For tickets visit https://ci.ovationtix.com/34699/production/1187899

Nine and Numb Improv: TURDUCKENING
🗓️ Wednesday, November 27, 2024 | 7:00–9:00 PM
📍 Empire Arts Center, 415 Demers Ave, Grand Forks, ND

Get your pre-Thanksgiving improv fix…. maybe pick up some ideas for your family gathering…. find out the meaning of turduckening…. It’s Nine and Numb, pretty much anything is possible when they take the stage at the Empire.

🎟️ Tickets available now!

🚨 Recommended for mature audiences (18+)

HollyDazzle: Festival of Lights ✨
Sunday, November 24 | 1 PM - 8 PM
📍 Downtown Grand Forks & East Grand Forks

Get ready to kick off the holiday season with HollyDazzle: Festival of Lights! Enjoy a full day of festive fun with holiday activities, including s’mores, ornament decorating, a parade, and a dazzling fireworks finale.

This FREE event is open to the entire community—perfect for families, friends, and holiday lovers of all ages!

🎄 Stay tuned for a detailed schedule of events

North Country Fiddle and Dance Community Dance

Get ready to kick up your heels at our community dance! Join us for an afternoon of lively music and easy-to-learn dances, perfect for all ages and skill levels. With music by the Leatherwood String Band from Bemidji and calling by Jeanne O'Neil, we'll be moving to reels, squares, circle mixers, and more!

Date: Saturday, November 23rd
Time: 2:00 to 4:30 pm
Location: East Grand Forks Senior Center
538 Rhinehart Dr. S.E., East Grand Forks, MN

Admission: Donations at the Door

Whether you're a single, a couple, or bringing the whole family, come enjoy an afternoon of fun, connection, and community spirit. No experience necessary—all dances are taught, so everyone can join in!

Family Day at the North Dakota Museum of Art
Saturday, November 23 | 10 AM - 12 PM
📍 North Dakota Museum of Art, 261 Centennial Dr, Grand Forks, ND

Bring the whole family to this month's Family Day, where art and music come together in an exciting fusion of creativity! Children of all ages and adults can explore new art techniques and materials, inspired by imaginative themes and cultural traditions.

Drop in for a quick visit or stay for the full experience—no admission fee, though donations for materials are appreciated. Plus, parking is free!

Join the NDMOA for a fun, hands-on morning of art, design, and creativity!

UND Jazz Ensembles Concert
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 7:30 PM
📍 Empire Arts Center, 415 Demers Ave, Grand Forks, ND

Immerse yourself in an evening of exceptional jazz with the talented UND Music Jazz Ensembles! Enjoy a night of lively performances featuring classic jazz standards and fresh arrangements by UND’s finest musicians.

Can’t make it in person? Join via live stream at und.edu/music/stream to experience the music from anywhere.

Fall Fling Swing Dance
Tuesday, November 19 | 7-9 PM
📍 U of M Crookston - Bede Ballroom

2900 University Avenue, Crookston, MN, 56716

Get ready for an evening of music, dance, and community at Fall Fling! Join the U of M Crookston Jazz Band for live swing music and classic jazz tunes that’ll keep you moving all night long. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, this event promises fun for everyone.

FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Bring friends, family, and anyone who loves a great time. Let’s swing into the season together—don’t miss it!

Jason Neukom | violin, percussion, electronics
Andrew “Gio” Giordano | violin, whistle, voice
Sean Neukom | viola, voice, guitar, drums, electronics
Ryan Ash | cello, keyboard, percussion

The eclectic and highly polished Beo String Quartet, founded in 2015, has created a niche for itself as a daring, genre-defying ensemble. Rigorously trained in the classical tradition, violinists Jason Neukom and Andrew Giordano, violist Sean Neukom, and cellist Ryan Ash also know their way around contemporary expression, including the use of electronics, live sound processing, and spatial audio manipulation. Their performances of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, or Shostakovich have been compared to those of the best among 21st century international string quartets.

With 65 world premieres to its credit and 150 concert works played throughout the United States, South America, and Europe, the iconoclastic Beo String Quartet does what it loves best: playing classical repertoire, contemporary, rock, and experimental music. From the Latin “to make happy,” Beo started out as a lark. Two Mexican-American brothers, Jason Neukom and Sean Neukom, decided to record a song entitled “Happy, Happy,” composed by Sean, but for that they would need two more players. And so in 2015 the Beo String Quartet was formed. Touring the world, composing, performing, recording, teaching, and having fun, Beo has since then founded Beo Publishing, built a recording studio, and started its own recording label, NeuKraft Records.

VISUAL ART, MUSIC & MORE!

Join us in downtown Grand Forks for an unforgettable night of art, music, and community spirit! Explore a variety of local businesses showcasing stunning visual and multimedia art, live music, and much more.

Featured Venues:

• Arts For Vets: 215 N. 3rd Street, Suite 100, Grand Forks, ND 58201

• Empire Arts Center: 415 Demers Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201

• Pillsbury Park: 316 Kittson Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201

This vibrant event is free and perfect for families, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Plus, make sure to head to the Empire Arts Center by 7:40 PM to enter our exciting prize draw!

Don't miss this chance to celebrate the arts and connect with the community. We can't wait to see you there!