As recent bursts of autumnal color slowly fade before the interminably grey winter season sets in, there is still hope for California dreaming and jungle fantasies. Not the sweaty, loincloth clad, Tarzan-meet-Jane kind of daydreams, but the creeping, basic longings of vibrancy and warmth found at the onset of cold weather (unless you prefer khaki and are an avid skier).
Luckily, there is the annual Great Lakes Avicultural Society (GLAS) Exotic Bird Fair. GLAS is a modest conglomeration of avian fanatics. Established in 1976, the society's primary goal is that of education and providing access to resources for pet owners and most importantly, prospective bird owners.
On Oct. 16, the DeltaPlex will literally be atwitter with feathered beasts of all kinds, from petite and cute to impressively large and surprisingly intelligent. Birds with emerald green bodies and bright blue heads or proud white crests, orange gnarled feet or rosy barrel chests will be found, spouting birdsongs ranging from melodic to obstinate cawing.
|
GLAS Exotic Bird Fair
DeltaPlex, Grand Rapids Oct. 16,10 a.m.-4 p.m. $3 / Seniors $2 / Children 12 & Under FREE glasbirdclub.com, (616) 364-9000
|
Shop, gawk or participate; Up to 50 vendors will be on-hand offering worldly delights for the bird in your life, delectable treats for yourself at the bake sale and plenty of educational information. Pick up a larger cage, select an exciting new toy and even buy parts for a broken toy.
"We sell everything under the sun for a bird," said Joyce Burrows, organizer for the GLAS Exotic Bird Fair.
Even feed samples are available for birds to taste. But, only registered vendors may bring birds to the fair, so keep be sure to keep Mr. Squawks-A-Lot at home.
Alongside vendors, educational displays provide a wealth of information and GLAS membership sign-up is also available.
Adding to the feathery fun, fair-goers can participate in raffles and the photo contest.
"The bird photo contest [is judged by] who likes your bird photo the best. Some [photos are of birds] doing tricks, some wearing hats. Once there was a bird with glasses on. But, no images of bird in danger," said Burrows.
And there is the Cockatiel Show.
"It's kind of a beauty pageant for birds. They are judged by their feathers and stance, like dog [shows] but, not as intense," Burrows said.
Around 600 people show up each year, bringing a mix of hard core enthusiasts and curious bird lovers, considering investing in a long lived companion. The event regularly draws people from surrounding states like Indiana, Ohio, Illinois and beyond.
Other Eclectic Events
Pulaski Days 2010
Various Grand Rapids Locations
Oct. 1-3
Free
pulaskidays.org
Polish pride surges every October in the form of beer binging, replete with excessive pierogi and kielbasa consumption. Non-stop Polish hall hopping provides variety and the Pulaski "drunk bus" safely shuttles celebrators about town. While most halls are situated on the Westside, there are a few farther afield. Don't forget to buy yourself an identifying, red Pulaski Days T-shirt or for the more discriminating, a red thong emblazoned with the national crest and the phrase "Polish Princess."
Bicycle Polo
1 Front Ave SW, Grand Rapids
Oct. 3, 2-8 p.m.
leagueofbikepolo.com, (616) 452-5125
Polo for badasses, otherwise known as "hardcourt polo," features almost any type of bicycle (provided you aren't attached to the paintjob), an expanse of pavement, a hearty lust for unconventional sport and hopefully a helmet. Newcomers are encouraged and extra mallets are available to share. A sport that removes the haughty and the horses and mixes in a dose of daredevil bike tricks, along with ample cursing, all washed down with energy drinks...is simply righteous.
Rockapella Goes Retro - Grand Rapids Symphony
DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids
Oct. 8-10, shows at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Tickets start at $48
grsymphony.org, (616) 742-6500
Groovy, man! Favorite classics from the 1960s and 1970s are remixed as the Grand Rapids Symphony's vocal quintet creates a unique sound by infusing musical harmony and energy into familiar tunes. Conducted by David Lockington, songs include Under the Boardwalk, Here Comes the Sun, Rock the Boat and much more.
