Good morning, Kalamazoo.

A coalition of women elected officials in Kalamazoo County launched a Thanksgiving food drive to provide 200 meals to families facing food insecurity.

The group will accept donations through Thursday and distribute meal kits on Sunday, November 23 — donations will be sent to Hope Thru Navigation.

Community members gathered last evening at Mattawan Consolidated School District headquarters for a prayer vigil to honor ten-year-old Jace Sargent—who was struck by a car Thursday morning while trying to cross the street after picking up mail—and died a few hours later.

Kalamazoo's Gilmore Piano Festival will become an annual event in 2026 after being held every two years, according to city commissioners.

The festival will hold a preview event today + announce headline acts for the April 30 to May 10 festival next year.

Portage Public Schools announced that construction on the new Amberly Elementary School will begin in 2026—its opening scheduled for fall 2028.

The district plans to add three new elementary schools in consecutive years following the approval of a $132.4 million bond on Nov. 4.

Kalamazoo County Government selected 12 community projects on November 5th for a share of $400,000 in 2026 Community Grant award funding.

The grants will support programs that improve healthcare access, community safety, family and youth support, and local journalism—and were chosen from 61 applications through a transparent, equity-focused process.

Kalamazoo has allocated $300,000 for a $700,000 winter shelter program run by three nonprofits—providing extra beds and day shelter from Dec 1 through March.

County funds and additional grants will support services to prevent dire emergencies during harsh winter weather.

Officials at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market named the new $6 million multipurpose building after former Commissioner Don Cooney on November 17 — honoring his 26 years of service — and it will host winter markets every Saturday from December 6 to April 25 while serving as an after-school site.

The board of the Greater Kalamazoo Association of Realtors named Leighun Brabec as the new chief executive officer; she will take the job on December 1 as she replaces Robin McIntosh, who retired in July after 13 years of service (20 years) of experience (from Lincoln).

Dokidokon 2025

Nov 20-22 — Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center — Tickets from $10 — Celebrate anime, gaming, and fandoms with panels, concerts, and cosplay at this community-focused convention.

A Christmas Carol

8:00 p.m. — The New Vic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience Dickens’ classic tale of redemption and holiday spirit returning to the stage with warmth and heart.

The Nutcracker

2-3:30 p.m. — Miller Auditorium — $25-$50 — Experience Clara's enchanting adventures through Tchaikovsky’s beloved music and breathtaking choreography.

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

2-5 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a hilarious holiday rom-com parody featuring local charm and wit.

Kalamazoo Wings vs. Fort Wayne Komets

5-8 p.m. — Wings Event Center — Free LED bracelet — Celebrate Wicked Night with a magical hockey experience featuring a painted ice theme.

KAR Turkey Trot Time Prediction Run

2-3 p.m. — Portage, MI — Family-friendly event — Celebrate Thanksgiving with a fun time-prediction run for all ages.

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

7:30 p.m. — Farmers Alley Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a satirical holiday comedy that blends local humor with festive cheer.

Jerico Faire

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Jerico — Free entry — Celebrate local artistry with handmade goods and unique creations from Michigan's makers.

A Very Kalamazoo Christmas

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Farmers Alley Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a satirical holiday rom-com that brings local humor and charm to the stage.

A Christmas Carol

8-10 p.m. — The New Vic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience Dickens’ warm tale of redemption and the spirit of Christmas this holiday season.