World of Winter

Rapid Art Movement
2025-01-24 17:30 - 21:30, 2025-01-25 17:30 - 21:30 UTC | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for Rapid Art Movement, a 50-minute immersive, interactive art experience happening on January 24th and 25th! This event will take you on a creative journey through art, performances and poetry as you travel on a DASH bus in the heart of Grand Rapids.

Board the bus at Monroe Ave at Rosa Park Circle and get ready for a unique artistic journey.

Schedule:

5:30 PM: First Departure from Rosa Park Circle
7:00 PM: Second Departure from Rosa Park Circle
8:30 PM: Third Departure from Rosa Park Circle

What to Expect:

Art Installations & Poetry: Experience visual art and poetry installed throughout the bus for you to explore during the ride.
Performances on the Bus: Enjoy live performances from talented artists at various stops along the DASH route.
Guided Tour: A host will be on board to guide you through the artworks and performances, providing insight and context.
Bus Ride Experience: A scenic one-hour journey from Rosa Park Circle to the Public Museum, with performances and installations at every turn.

Artists:
Jon Calkins, Jeremy Verwys, Bri Hubbard-Ross, Erika Soto, Danira Stanojevic, Thiago Porraz, Heather Huber and Poppysmic.

Your Hosts:This event is co-organized by Eirann Betka-Pope, Artistic Director of Betka-Pope Productions and Zachary Trebellas, Director of Avenue for the Arts. With this event they aim to showcase the talents of Michigan artists and highlight what makes living in Grand Rapids special.

BONIMGET - Traditional Native Hoop Dance
2025-01-24 18:00 - 19:00 | Gillett Bridge, 220 Front Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Experience the rich cultural tradition of Native Hoop Dancing with Malcolm McDonald, a proud member of the Bodwéwadmi (Potawatomi) tribe. Malcolm’s performance blends storytelling, dance and music to share the deep traditions of his people.

What to Expect:

Native Hoop Dancing: Watch Malcolm perform the intricate art of hoop dancing, symbolizing the interconnectedness of life and nature.
Live Drumming and Music: The dance is accompanied by live drumming, enhancing the storytelling with rhythm and energy.
Cultural Storytelling: Each movement and hoop tells a story, honoring nature and Anishinaabe teachings.
Family-Friendly: This event is open to all ages, offering a unique cultural experience for everyone.

From The Organizer:
Malcolm ndezhnëkas. mthébnéshiniyêk ndëbéndagwes. bodwéwadmi miné neshnabé ndaw. mko o ndodém. mzhi’génak ndëwtthbya.
(My name is Malcolm. I belong to the People of the Bad Bird. I am Bodwéwadmi and Neshnabé. Bear is my clan. I am from Michigan.)

Ice Breaker
2025-01-25 12:00 - 17:00 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for a live ice carving experience at Ice Breaker! Watch a giant block of ice transform into a stunning sculpture, created from a design chosen by the community. This free, family-friendly event is perfect for all ages!

What to Expect:

Live Ice Carving: Watch as local artists carve a massive block of ice into a beautiful sculpture.
Community-Voted Sculpture: Join to see what the community voted ice sculpture is going to be!
Outdoor Fun: Enjoy the winter magic at Rosa Parks Circle with this free, family-friendly event.

Guided Walking Tour: Art Installations
2025-01-25 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-02-05 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-02-19 18:00 - 19:00 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Experience the outdoor art that transforms Downtown Grand Rapids into a winter wonderland. Join local expert Caroline Cook for a Free Guided Walking Tour, offered 5 times throughout the festival. Each tour follows the same route, showcasing the city’s stunning art installations up close.

What to Expect:

Expert Guide: Caroline Cook provides behind-the-scenes insights and fascinating details about each art piece, giving you a deeper understanding of the installations.
Immersive Art Experience: Explore outdoor sculptures, light displays and interactive installations.
Meet New People: Connect with fellow art lovers while discovering new parts of the city.

How to Participate:

No RSVP required! Simply show up at Rosa Parks Circle (in front of the Grand Rapids Art Museum Main Entrance) at 6:00 PM to begin your tour.

Fire & Ice
2025-01-25 18:00 - 22:00 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for a family-friendly night of fun in Grand Rapids! Enjoy fire performances, figure skating routines and a lively street party with food trucks, interactive activities and live entertainment. Come for the performances, stay for the fun!

Schedule:

6:00 PM – Fire Skater Performance
6:30 PM – Dance Performers on Monroe Center
7:00 PM – Greater Grand Rapids Figure Skating Club Performance
7:30 PM – Dance Performers on Monroe Center
7:45 PM – Fire Skater Performance
8:15 PM – Dance Performers on Monroe Center
8:30 PM – Rink Opens for Open Skate

What to Expect:

Skating Performances: Watch fire performers and figure skaters in synchronized routines.
Interactive Street Party: Enjoy activities for all ages, fire pits and live entertainment. Monroe Center will be closed to vehicle traffic and accessible to pedestrians only.
Open Skate: Skate after the performances—tickets available on-site.
Food Trucks: Grab tasty bites from local vendors.
LED Playground & Booth: Explore interactive fun at the LED playground and GREG booth.
Ice Tower with Fire: Watch the Ice Guru Events Team craft a towering work of art out of ice
Street Dance Performances: Get hyped by the incredible moves of the iconic duo D’Soul and Greenz

Ice Skating Cost:

Adults (18+): $6
Youth (17 & under): $3
10-Hole Punch Card: $22
Admission includes free skate rental. Cash and card accepted.

Ice Park & Food Truck Rally
2025-01-26 12:00 - 18:00 | 555 Monroe, 555 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, Mic, 49503, United States
Get ready for a day of frosty fun, delicious food and an immersive sound experience at the Ice Park & Food Truck Rally!

What to Expect:

Ice Games: Challenge yourself with fun games made entirely out of ice by Ice Guru Events

Connect 4 *
Bowling *
Foosball
Chess
Checkers
Tic Tac Toe
Corn hole
Air Hockey
Skee Ball,
‘Winner’ Ice Throne

Live Ice Carving: Watch as Ice Guru Events creates stunning ice art.
Sound Immersion (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Dive into interactive music setups, including CDJs, a midi keyboard and an electronic drum kit.
Food Trucks: Enjoy a variety of tasty eats from local food trucks. Full list of vendors below!
Family-Friendly: Fun for all ages with games, food and music in a relaxed atmosphere.

Schedule:

12:00 PM: Ice Park & Food Truck Rally opens
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Sound Immersion
6:00 PM: Food Truck Rally ends (Ice Park remains open until it melts)

Food Trucks:
Around Baking Co, Tacos La Familia G.O., Shnack Trap, Andy’s Munchies, The Smokin Unicorn, Roasted Red’s and Olly’s Donuts

* = new games

Guided Walking Tour: African American History on The Grand
2025-01-29 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-02-12 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-02-26 18:00 - 19:00 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for a reflective walking tour exploring the African American experience in Grand Rapids, from 1826 to today. Led by Caroline Cook, this tour highlights key stories, events and landmarks that shaped the city’s African American community. Offered 3 times throughout the festival, each tour follows the same route.

What to Expect:

Guided Historical Tour: Caroline will share powerful stories about African American figures, places, events and issues that have impacted the city.
Engaging & Educational: Learn about the rich history and contributions of African Americans in Grand Rapids through thought-provoking narratives.
Comfortable Walking: Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for a one-hour tour through Downtown.

How to Participate:

No RSVP required! Simply show up at Rosa Parks Circle (in front of the Grand Rapids Art Museum Main Entrance) at 6:00 PM to begin your tour.

Guided Walking Tour: The Chilly Challenge
2025-01-30 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-02-06 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-02-13 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-02-20 12:00 - 13:00 | JW Marriott, 235 Louis St NW, grand rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for the 7th Annual Chilly Challenge—a 7-week walking series that explores Downtown Grand Rapids like never before! Each week, enjoy a 60-minute guided walk with local expert Caroline Cook, uncovering hidden gems, history and culture.

Walk Schedule:

Jan 9 at 12:00 pm | Lapping the Landmarks
Jan 16 at 12:00 pm | Art For All
Jan 23 at 12:00 pm | World of Winter
Jan 30 at 12:00 pm | Grand Rapids Most Haunted
Feb 6 at 12:00 pm | Miles and Miles of Murals
Feb 13 at 12:00 pm | Park to Park to Park 1
Feb 20 at 12:00 pm| Park to Park to Park 2

What to Expect:

Seven Themed Walks: Every Thursday at 12:00 PM, Jan 9–Feb 20
Expert Guide: Caroline Cook shares fascinating stories of the city.
Meet New People: Get outdoors, stay active, and connect with fellow explorers.
$25 Gift Card: Complete all 7 walks and earn a gift card to a Downtown business of your choice!

How to Participate:

No RSVP required! – Just show up at the JW Marriott lobby (near Starbucks) at noon.
Complete all 7 walks to earn your $25 gift card!

Disco on Ice
2025-01-31 18:00 - 22:00 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Get Your Groove on and join us for a disco-themed skate night! Skate to funky beats, rock your best retro look and have a blast on the ice.

What to Expect:

3 Disco DJs: Enjoy classic and modern disco hits all night long.

DJ Bob Marino, M.O. and Dreas.

Ice Skating Fun: Skate under vibrant lights with a lively disco vibe.
Dress to Impress: Come in your best retro outfit—sequins, bell bottoms and more!
Fun for All Ages: A night of skating for families and friends alike.

Ice Skating Cost:

Adults (18+): $6
Youth (17 & under): $3
10-Hole Punch Card: $22
Admission includes free skate rental. Cash and card accepted.

Winter's a DRAG!
2025-02-01 11:00 - 15:00 | Calder Plaza, 320 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Get ready to werk, honey! Winter’s a DRAG is back and bigger than ever! Hosted with Michigan Drag Brunch, this annual drag extravaganza features two high-energy sets of fierce performances from Michigan’s finest queens AND a special RuPaul’s Drag Race queen you won’t want to miss… Our headliner for the day is the incomparable… YVIE ODDLY! Prepare for an out-of-this-world performance from the queen known for her unmatched creativity and that unforgettable oddly fabulous vibe!

What to Expect:

Drinks for a Cause: Support AYA Youth Collective with every drink you purchase.
Sickening Performances: Enjoy jaw-dropping performances from the queens of Michigan Drag Brunch and Miss Yvie Oddly!
Food Trucks Featured: Tacos Mexico, Roasted Red’s, The Smokin Unicorn, Dune Buggy, Around Baking Co and Dolce Mini Cakes.
360 PhotoBooth by: Strike a pose —perfect for your Insta-feed

Meet & Greet Info:

This is a FREE event, but if you want to meet the one and only Yvie Oddly, you can grab a Meet & Greet ticket for just $5!
The Meet & Greet will take place from 3:00 – 4:15 PM by the Calder Sculpture in Calder Plaza.
Buy tickets for the Meet & Greet here — only $5 per person!
After the show, get ready to meet Yvie, snap a selfie and grab an autograph from your favorite queen!

Partners:

Michigan Drag Brunch
AYA Youth Collective (Proceeds benefit)
Alliance Beverage (In-kind sponsor)

Ice Piano Performance
2025-02-07 18:30 - 20:30 | Canal Park, 941 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Step into a world of art, music, and winter wonder at the Ice Piano Performance set against the stunning Rainbow Willow Tree installation.

What to Expect:

Live Music on an Ice Piano: Local musicians Sammie Hershock and Hannah Laine will perform on a piano crafted from ice, producing an ethereal, hauntingly beautiful sound.
Rainbow Willow Tree Installation: This striking installation will provide a surreal visual backdrop, adding to the winter magic of the event.

Schedule:

6:30 PM – Sammie Performs
7:00 PM – Hannah Performs
7:30 PM – Sammie Performs
8:00 PM – Hannah Performs

Jalsa: Festivity of food and culture
2025-02-07 18:30 - 21:00 | Calder Plaza, 320 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Celebrate the vibrant culture of India, featuring music, dance and delicious regional snacks in partnership with the Assam Association of West Michigan. “Jalsa” is an invitation to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and tastes of India, celebrating the richness of life and the spirit of spring.

What to Expect:

Live Music: Groove to Folk, Fusion and Bollywood beats blending traditional and modern sounds.
Dance Performances: Enjoy stunning performances of Indian classical and folk dances like Kathak and Bharatanatyam.
Traditional Indian Food and Snacks Savor festival snacks from across India, including samosas, pani puri and mithai, priced $3-$10.

Additional Info:

Free and open to all.
Food available for purchase ($3-$10).
Family-friendly!

Circus Wonderland
2025-02-08 18:00 - 21:00 | Calder Plaza, 320 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Step into a world of excitement, where thrilling circus acts meet the magic of the ChronoHarp, an international art installation. This family-friendly event is packed with top-tier performances and surprises all night long!

What to Expect:

Acrobats, Variety Show and Circus Acts: Watch jaw-dropping performances and incredible stunts.
Trampoline Performances: Watch as the Trampoline Academy performs and defies gravity!
Fire Performers from GR Entertainment Group: Be mesmerized by fire breathers, jugglers and dancers lighting up the night with their fiery displays.
LiteZilla: A large Lite-Brite you can play with!
International Art Installation: Marvel at the ChronoHarp, a stunning interactive art installation that sets the stage for the night’s action.

Food Trucks:
Rolling Soul, Olly’s Donuts, Casa De Los Abuelos, Semifreddo & Patty Matters

Photo Walk
2025-02-09 18:00 - 20:00 | 555 Monroe, 555 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, Mic, 49503, United States
Join resident DGRI photographer Bryan Esler from Bryan Esler Photo for a photo walk through the festival’s captivating light-based art installations. This walk is open to all skill levels, with Bryan sharing expert tips on how to best photograph these glowing works of art.

What to Expect:

Photo Walk with a Pro: Bryan Esler will guide you through the vibrant light installations, showing you how to capture them at their best.
Photography Tips & Techniques: Learn how to adjust your camera settings, find the best angles, and make the most of the lighting.
Photo Contest: Submit your best shot for a chance to win a $50 gift card.

How to Participate:

No RSVP required! Simply show up at 555 Monroe at the scheduled time to join the walk.
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the art installations.
Optional: After the walk, submit your best photo for a chance to win a $50 gift card.

Luv'N Lunch
2025-02-14 12:00 - 13:30 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
A Valentine’s Day Pop-Up Filled with Love, Food and Fun! Join us as we celebrate love with free roses, food trucks and 2-for-1 ice skating—perfect for a lunchtime date with friends or someone special!

What to Expect:

2-for-1 Ice Skating: Bring a friend and enjoy 2-for-1 ice skating (cost details below).
Free Roses: Get a free rose (while supplies last).
Pop-Up Performances: Enjoy live saxophone that adds to the festive atmosphere.
Food Trucks: Savor delicious bites from local favorites:

Taquero Mucho – Find the pink heart design on their truck and indulge in delicious tacos and more!
Dolce Mini Cakes – Treat yourself to sweet, bite-sized desserts perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.

Ice Skating Cost:

Adults (18+): $6
Youth (17 & under): $3
10-Hole Punch Card: $22
Admission includes free skate rental. Cash and card accepted.

Love on Ice
2025-02-14 18:00 - 21:00 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for a magical Valentine’s evening of ice skating, a beautiful ice sculpture throne, free professional photos and sweet treats. Whether you’re celebrating with a special someone or friends, it’s the perfect way to make lasting memories.

What to Expect:

Ice Sculpture Photo Op: Snap the perfect Valentine’s photo sitting on the stunning Ice Throne.
Professional Photographer: Get a memorable photo of you and your loved ones from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
2-for-1 Ice Skating: Enjoy ice skating with a friend or partner!
Sweet Treats: Grab a dessert from Dolce Mini Cakes to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ice Skating Cost:

Adults (18+): $6
Youth (17 & under): $3
10-Hole Punch Card: $22
Admission includes free skate rental. Cash and card accepted.

U Move Me: Music Production Battle
2025-02-15 14:00 - 17:00 | Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504, United States
Join us for an exciting music competition where talented producers compete for a $1,000 cash prize! Feel the rhythm and let the music move you as they create energetic beats that’ll have you dancing, even in your snow pants! Plus: Your energy and cheers will help determine the winner, so get ready to groove and be part of the fun!
What to Expect:

High-energy music: from talented producers competing for a $1,000 cash prize.
Live performances: that’ll get you moving, no matter the weather.
Audience participation: where your cheers and dance moves can help pick the winner!

How to Participate:
Interested music producers and beat makers, email Monk Recordings at monk@monkrecordings.com for details and registration!
Sponsored by ArtPrize, opnr and Monk Recordings LLC.

Sound Bath & Meditation
2025-02-15 18:30 - 19:30 | Calder Plaza, 320 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for a peaceful outdoor Sound Bath experience beneath the mesmerizing ChronoHarp Art Installation. This immersive event combines soothing sound vibrations with meditation, creating a tranquil retreat for your mind, body, and spirit.

What to Expect:

Healing Sound Vibrations: Immerse yourself in crystal bowls, gongs and other instruments designed to soothe your body and calm your mind.
Guided Meditation: Expert instructors will lead you through a calming meditation, helping you connect with your breath and enhance your relaxation.
ChronoHarp Art Installation: The stunning visual and sound elements of the ChronoHarp set the perfect backdrop for the sound bath experience.

What to Bring:

Water bottle.
Mat (or towel/blanket) for comfort during the session.

Paint the Park
2025-02-16 11:00 - 17:00 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Paint the Ice Rink at Rosa Parks Circle! Join us for this fun, family-friendly event where you can get creative, enjoy a lively street party and savor delicious food from local trucks.

What to Expect:

Community Art Project: Unleash your creativity and paint the ice! We’ll provide all materials, but wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on
Street Party: Monroe Center will be closed to cars for a lively celebration with local vendors, interactive activities and fun for all ages.

GRPL – Mobile Library: Dive into a good book with the Grand Rapids Public Library’s mobile library on-site
Boredomfighters – Music Production for Kids: Let your little ones learn the art of music production from the experts at Boredomfighters
GRCM – Kids Can Van with Paint Easels & Bubbles: A fun-filled experience for kids, with paint easels and bubble play from the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
GREG – Stilt Walkers (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Be amazed by the towering stilt walkers, adding an extra touch of excitement to your day
Disney’s Princesses: Meet Anna & Elsa for photos from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Interactive Drum Circle: Get musical with local artist, Josh Dunigan
Face Painting with Dez Begay: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Olaf Ice Sculpture: Marvel at the frozen fun with a magical Olaf ice sculpture, crafted by Ice Guru Events.

Ribbon Bracelet Workshop: Warm up by making a free craft inside the Grand Rapids Art Museum from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

GRAM Discount: We’re partnering with the Grand Rapids Art Museum to offer you an admission discount to their Art Galleries if you visit their Ribbon Bracelet Workshop or Cafe

Schedule:

11:00 AM – 2:30 PM: Paint the ice at RPC (all supplies provided) and GRAM Workshop open.
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Meet Anna & Elsa for photos.
2:30 PM: Ice painting ends.
3:00 PM: Face painting ends.
4:30 PM: Ice rink opens for skating.

Food Trucks:
Patty Matters, Tacos Mexico, Pac Pizzeria, Eastown Cereal Cafe, Semifreddo and Dolce Mini Cakes

Ice Skating Cost:

Adults (18+): $6
Youth (17 & under): $3
10-Hole Punch Card: $22
Admission includes free skate rental. Cash and card accepted.

KOAN Sound at ChronoHarp
2025-02-21 18:00 - 22:00 | Calder Plaza, 320 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for an unforgettable night under the stars at the ChronoHarp art installation! Experience electrifying DJ sets, mouthwatering food trucks and a show-stopping performance by our headliner, KOAN Sound. Schedule Coming Soon!

What to Expect:

DJ Performances: Dance to high-energy sets from 4 talented DJs throughout the night.
International Art Installation: Immerse yourself in the stunning visual experience of ChronoHarp.
Headliner: Don’t miss the mind-blowing performance by our headliner, KOAN Sound.
Funktion One Official Sound System: Unmatched audio clarity and powerful bass!

Food Trucks:

Shnack Trap, Los Pinches Tacos, Dolce Mini Cakes, Casa De Los Abuelos and Pizza MI.

Come for the beats, stay for the experience!

Great Lakes Snow Snake Competition
2025-02-22 11:00 - 16:00 | Sixth Street Park, 647 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join us for a Snow Snake Competition! Snow Snake is a traditional northern Native American game. The snake that is thrown the farthest down a snow trough wins.
YOU MUST MAKE YOUR OWN SNAKE TO COMPETE.
Practice snakes will be available for all to try. Compete for the grand prize of $500.

BRACKETS:

Compete in one of the categories based on age and gender:
0-5 years old
6-12 years old
13-19 years old
20-34 years old
35-54 years old
55+ years old

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Build Your Snake: You must make your own snake to compete

Throw Your Snake: Each competitor gets to throw their snow snake – the goal is to throw it the farthest!

SCHEDULE:

11:00 AM Registration & Practice Rounds
12:00 PM Competition begins. Event and times depend on the number of participants. Winners and prizes will be announced after all the brackets have completed competition.

ADDITIONAL INFO:

Registration is free at the beginning of the event – arrive early to sign up and practice!

Family-friendly and fun for all ages!

PRIZES:

Bracket Victory: $50
Grand Prize $500

Human Hungry Hippo Tournament
2025-02-23 12:30 - 19:00 | Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW,, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Gather your team and get ready to compete in this wacky, action-packed event. Teams of six race across the rink in sleds, scooping up balls in this hilarious, fast-paced competition.

Schedule:

Family Division: 12:30 PM – 3 PM
Adult Division: 3:30 PM – 6 PM

What to Expect:

Family & Adult Divisions: Two categories—one for families and one for adults—so everyone can join the fun!
Prize Bags: Winning teams in each division take home awesome prize bags!

How To Compete:
In this one-of-a-kind competition, teams of six (each with a “hippo” in a sled) will race across the ice to collect balls—just like the classic board game, but with a human twist! Register here to compete as a family or adult team.

Food Trucks:
Dolce Mini Cakes, Andy’s Munchies and Tamales Mary.
