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Grand Rapids Hosts Family-Friendly Events for Father’s Day

Families celebrating Father's Day weekend in Grand Rapids.

News Summary

This Father’s Day weekend, Grand Rapids offers a variety of events perfect for families and dads. Highlights include free museum admission for fathers, a major baseball exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, and vibrant cultural festivals like the Asian-Pacific Festival and the Three Fires Pow Wow. Additionally, the Sparta Beer and Brat Street Fest features local brews and entertainment. Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore these activities celebrating family and community.

Grand Rapids is set to host a range of events this Father’s Day weekend, from June 15, offering diverse activities for families and especially for dads celebrating their special day. Highlights include a free admission day for fathers at several venues, a major baseball exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, and various cultural festivals and local community events.

Grand Rapids Public Museum Exhibit

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is showcasing the exhibit “Play Ball! The World’s Largest Collection of Detroit Tigers Baseballs,” which started on April 4. This impressive collection features around 1,200 autographed baseballs and other memorabilia, contributed by Steve and Mary Nagengast. Items in the exhibit date back to 1901, allowing attendees to explore significant pieces of baseball history.

Among the standout items included are signatures from baseball legends such as Ty Cobb, Al Kaline, and Miguel Cabrera.

General admission rates at the museum are accessible, with free entry for children aged 2 and under, $5 for children and college students, $10 for seniors, and $12 for adults. On June 15, all fathers, grandfathers, and father-like figures will be granted free admission, making it a perfect outing for families.

Cultural Festivals and Community Events

From June 12 to June 15, the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival returns to Calder Plaza for its ninth year, featuring free entry and a host of family-friendly activities. This vibrant festival showcases diverse cultural experiences with live music, traditional dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, fashion shows, and a cultural parade.

Special highlights of this year’s festival include a K-Pop cover dance competition and a concert by singer-songwriter Voy Kwan, ensuring engaging entertainment for attendees of all ages.

Three Fires Pow Wow

The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians will host the 43rd annual Homecoming of the Three Fires Pow Wow from June 14 to June 15 at Riverside Park. This traditional Indigenous celebration is free to attend and promises enriching experiences through Indigenous music, dance performances, food, and craft displays.

Sparta Beer and Brat Street Fest

Additionally, the Sparta Beer and Brat Street Fest will be held from June 13 to June 14 at 194 E Division St., boasting a selection of locally brewed beers and specialty brats. While entrance to the festival is free, attendees can purchase a lanyard with tickets for premium offerings at prices starting from $25 or two for $45. The festival will feature live music, strolling performers, and artisan market vendors, along with interactive activities such as axe throwing, caricature drawings, and succulent planting.

Conclusion

Residents and visitors of Grand Rapids are encouraged to take advantage of the variety of events this Father’s Day weekend, promising to create unforgettable memories for families and honoring the contributions of fathers and father figures. For further updates and details on local happenings, residents may consider bookmarking the local Grand Rapids news page or subscribing to relevant newsletters.