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CALENDAR OF EVENTS – GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN 

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GRAND RAPIDS EVENTS:

JANUARY


FEBRUARY


MARCH


APRIL


MAY

Holland is a city on the shore of Lake Macatawa, in Michigan. The much-photographed Big Red Lighthouse stands by the channel that connects this lake to Lake Michigan. Nearby, the beachfront Holland State Park shelters deer and migratory birds. Windmill Island Gardens is home to De Zwaan, a centuries-old windmill. May’s Tulip Time Festival, recalling Holland’s Dutch roots, sees tulips blooming all over the city.

On the 4th Sunday in each of the summer months, you can shop the Pop-Up Marketplace at the Downtown Market, featuring Michigan made, and grown, treats and gifts. Admission is free. Afterward, take a stroll through the rest of the Downtown Market—this would also be a great time to grab a pain au chocolat from Field and Fire Bakery or try some of Slows delicious BBQ.


JUNE

Started in 1969, this June 3-5 marks the 47th annual Festival, which is a weekend of downtown art-related fun aimed at making art accessible to everyone. Join the throngs of locals and visitors who turn out every summer to enjoy the free live music, dance, and arts activities…and indulge in tasty treats from dozens of food booths. (Made in) Michigan Pop-Up Marketplace 

On the 4th Sunday in each of the summer months (and also in May and September), you can shop the Pop-Up Marketplace at the Downtown Market, featuring Michigan made, and grown, treats and gifts. Admission is free. Afterward, take a stroll through the rest of the Downtown Market—this would also be a great time to grab a pain au chocolat from Field and Fire Bakery or try some of Slows delicious BBQ. 


JULY


AUGUST


SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

ArtPrize is an open, independently organized international art competition which takes place for 19 days every fall in Grand Rapids, Michigan. $250,000 in prizes are awarded by smartphone-enabled public vote, including a $200,000 grand prize. Any artist working in any medium from anywhere in the world can participate. Art is exhibited throughout downtown Grand Rapids—museums, bars, public parks, restaurants, theaters, hotels, bridges, laundromats, auto body shops, vacant storefronts, and office spaces. Artists and venues register for the competition then find each other through an online connection process in late spring. No one at ArtPrize selects a single artist or artwork, directs an artist where to show work, or directs a venue what to show. In 2018, 1,260+ works created by 1,400+ artists from 41 states and 40 countries were exhibited in 165+ venues.

ArtPrize is free and open to the public and now attracts over 500,000 visitors, making it the most attended public art event in the world in 2014 and 2015, according to The Art Newspaper’s annual “Big Ticket List.”


NOVEMBER

  • Mane Event 

The Mane Event will be coming to BOB in Grand Rapids on November 10th. A dedication to Hollywood glamour, guests will be asked to style their hair in a way that best pays homage to this old school era. A judging competition will determine who is most deserving of the fine selection of prizes. Some proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Red Project, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting HIV.

  • A very Rustic Christmas Craft Show 

This is going to be freakin’ amazing…We promise this will be the coolest rustic craft show you have ever been to and it will be the best one of the year! Bigger, badder, and better than ever! Warning: we don’t sell Spanx or essential oils…not how we roll!

  • Long Run John 

Now that it’s getting cold, I’m sure you’re busting out those long johns! In fact, what better way to keep warm and enjoy minimal constraints while you’re running? Get those long johns and get your silly on when you run for the Long John Run at the Christ Church GR of November 11. Proceeds will be donated to Mel Trotter Ministries.

  • Wonder: A DisArt Premier Film Event 

Is there a movie buff in the family? Someone who likes to see all the latest movies before anyone else has a chance to publish spoilers on the internet? They will enjoy this pre-release, family-friendly screening of the movie Wonder. On November 14, find out what it’s like for this boy to overcome his facial differences and become a hero in his community.

This festival takes place November 16-18 as part of Grand Rapids Cocktail Week event. Celebrating its 10th year, this tasting event will feature 1,800 varieties of wines, beers, ciders, and spirits. Recommended for expert connoisseurs as well as beginners who are looking to familiarize themselves with the local palette, this festival is sure to have something for everyone.

Looking for a unique gift to give this Christmas season? Maybe one that supports the community? Well, shop local at this shopping event that will feature artists and crafters all vending their handmade treasures. Running from November 17-19, you’re sure to come home with a real find.

The West Michigan holiday season will officially kick-off with the Art Van Santa Parade, presented by the Grand Rapids Jaycees. Downtown Grand Rapids will be filled with the sweet sounds of local marching bands, carolers, and local performers. Entrants for the event will create unique entries around the theme, including costumes, music, and floats based on popular & classic holiday songs.

Come join the biggest and best holiday race in the Grand Rapids area with over 3,000 runners in the 25th annual Thanksgiving Day Run for Grand Rapids Public Schools presented by Blue Care Network of Michigan. This is a 5K run/walk through downtown for people of all ages and all fitness levels.


DECEMBER

  • The Yule Ball 

Hey Potterheads, Dumbledore welcomes you to Grand Rapids’ first Yule Ball! 

Just when you thought the lights couldn’t get any brighter, that the spirit of the season couldn’t get any more festive… why not travel to the City of Kentwood on December 8 for their tree lighting and holiday parade? It will feature hayrides, hot chocolate, cookies, live music, caroling, and a visit from Santa.

  • Holiday Pop-up Market at Sovengard

The Sovengard will be holding a pop-up market! They’ve hand-selected artists, businesses, and makers to curate some fantastic one-of-a-kind gifts that you can feel good about. “Dining and beverages will be available before, during, and after the market. Part of the day’s proceeds will go to Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue.”