News Summary
Billy Strings will perform a two-night homecoming concert at Grand Rapids’ Van Andel Arena, with the Saturday show already sold out. A vibrant ‘Shakedown’ event and additional pre-parties are scheduled to celebrate local culture and music. The weekend promises performances from special guests, a vendor marketplace, and a community focus on health and well-being.
Grand Rapids – On May 30-31, 2025, Billy Strings will perform at Grand Rapids’ Van Andel Arena for a highly anticipated two-night homecoming concert, expected to draw numerous fans and vendors. The concert on Saturday is already sold out, while tickets for the Friday show are available, ranging from $57.10 to $81.15.
The festivities will kick off with a “Shakedown” event on Ionia’s Main Street at The Paisley Fig on May 29. This event, organized by local community members, will feature a vibrant vendor marketplace alongside open-mic sessions from noon to 9 p.m. The Paisley Fig, co-owned by Billy Strings’ mother, Debra Apostol, and Missy Fowler, is expected to be a hub for local culture and creativity during this festive week.
An additional pre-party, “Pickin’ in the Courtyard,” will take place at the Courtyard by Marriott in Grand Rapids on May 30-31. This event will host 27 vendors, providing live music, open-mic sessions, and open jams from noon to 6 p.m., creating a celebratory atmosphere for fans and attendees alike. Numerous special guests are expected to make appearances throughout the weekend, further enhancing the excitement.
Alongside the concerts and events, the festival will feature a variety of vendors selling “Billy Strings-inspired” merchandise, artisan goods, and creative crafts. These vendors will contribute to the vibrant and diverse marketplace, appealing to a wide array of attendees.
The organization behind these events, H33ling the Herd, is spearheaded by Jeni Matuja and Jillian Quinlan. This non-profit focuses on promoting community education and distributing Narcan, aiming to encourage healthier lifestyles within the bluegrass community.
The community surrounding Billy Strings is renowned for its tight-knit nature, emphasizing mutual support and a shared passion for music and dance. Billy Strings has cultivated a devoted fanbase that spans families, vendors, and dedicated followers across the nation, all drawn together by a love for his music and the bluegrass genre.
The impact of Billy Strings extends beyond music; community members have remarked on his positive influence and personal connections with fans. Recently, he visited Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, sharing his music with young patients, including those in the NICU. This visit was a heartfelt gesture of gratitude for the care his son received during his time there.
In addition to the official events, there will be an “Unofficial Pre-Picking in the Garden” at Founders Brewing Co., featuring performances by the Mark Lavengood Trio and King Possum at 4:30 p.m. on May 30 and 31, respectively. This gathering promises to be another opportunity for fans to come together in celebration of music as the anticipation builds for the main event at the Van Andel Arena.
As the dates approach, the excitement surrounding Billy Strings’ homecoming continues to grow, with community events designed to create an inclusive atmosphere and foster connections among fans, local vendors, and musicians. With comprehensive planning and community involvement, this festival is set to be a memorable celebration of music and camaraderie.
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Additional Resources
- Local Spins
- MLive
- Live for Live Music
- Mix 95.7 GR
- Music Row
- Wikipedia: Billy Strings
- Google Search: Billy Strings
- Google Scholar: Billy Strings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Billy Strings
- Google News: Billy Strings
