A lively scene from the Grand Rapids street festival, celebrating art and community.
Grand Rapids is gearing up for a vibrant weekend celebrating art, music, and culture, featuring a variety of free events from gallery walks to block parties. This three-day celebration encourages community engagement through artistic exploration and diverse activities. Highlights include the First Friday Art Walk, FAM on SoDIV, and the City Built Block Party, alongside opportunities for families and visitors to appreciate local creativity and sustainability efforts. Additionally, the Grand Rapids Public Library offers free programs for summer fun. The event promises memories for all ages.
Grand Rapids is set to host a vibrant weekend of art, music, and culture from Friday, June 6 to Sunday, June 8, showcasing the diverse creativity that defines the city. This exciting lineup includes gallery walks, street festivals, live music performances, and eco-conscious celebrations, designed to appeal to residents and visitors alike.
Each day of the weekend offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests, ensuring lasting memories for everyone. Events are family-friendly, open to the public, and free of charge for most, promoting community engagement and cultural appreciation throughout Grand Rapids.
On Friday, June 6, the First Friday Art Walk will take place from 6–9 p.m. in Downtown Grand Rapids. Attendees can explore several galleries, including ArtRat Gallery, Cocoon Art Space, AllArtWorks, Avenue for the Arts (106 Gallery), and The Arts Marketplace. This event is targeted at art lovers, design professionals, collectors, couples, and casual explorers, providing a platform for local talent without the need for tickets.
The festivities continue on Saturday, June 7, with FAM on SoDIV, happening from Noon–7 p.m. on South Division Street between Wealthy and Fulton. This event celebrates local culture with free trolley rides, live music, shopping sales, art pop-ups, and performances. Geared towards families, shoppers, young adults, and community-minded locals, the event aims to create a festive atmosphere without ticket requirements.
Also on Saturday, from 3–10 p.m., the City Built Block Party at City Built Brewing Co., located at 820 Monroe Ave NW, will celebrate its 8th anniversary. This mini beer festival will feature various Michigan breweries, live music, and food trucks, inviting craft beer lovers, foodies, and adults 21 and over. Entry is free, encouraging participation from the community and beyond.
On Saturday, June 7, the Native Waters Event will run from 1–5 p.m. at Trail Point Brewing Co. in Allendale. This eco-focused event aims to educate participants on protecting Michigan’s waters and will feature local conservation groups, live music, and family-friendly games, appealing to families, craft beer enthusiasts, environmentalists, and outdoor lovers, with no entry fees.
Closing out the festivities on Sunday, June 8, is Americana Sundays at ArtRat Gallery, where Jes Kramer will perform from 3–5 p.m.. Known for her layered live performances that resonate with audiences, the concert will charge $20 for tickets, attracting indie music fans and concertgoers of all ages.
In addition to the weekend celebrations, the Grand Rapids Public Library is offering free programs throughout the summer months. Visitors can participate in activities such as painting, gardening, photography, and interactive performances. Highlighted events include Wild Encounters with the John Ball Zoo, Art Basics sessions, Pirate Swordsmanship for Teens, and Dinosaur Day with PaleoJoe. These initiatives aim to promote creativity, curiosity, and connections within the community.
In addition to the summer festivities, Grand Rapids is preparing for ArtPrize 2024, scheduled from September 13-28. This international art competition will feature over 950 artists from 42 states and 53 countries, spread across more than 170 venues. Expected to draw over 1 million attendees, ArtPrize will generate significant economic activity for the city while implementing a new voting format for participants age 13 and older. Public and juried awards totaling over $600,000 will be offered, alongside more than 60 planned events including live art installations and performances.
Grand Rapids’ weekend of art and culture promises to be an engaging experience for all, with opportunities to enjoy local creativity and connect with diverse communities.
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