Categories: ArtCinemaCommunityEvents/What's HappeningFestivalsNews

Grand Rapids Kicks Off Summer with Family-Friendly Events

Families gather for cultural and artistic festivities in Grand Rapids.

News Summary

Grand Rapids is gearing up for a vibrant summer weekend from June 13 to June 15, featuring the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival, RendeZoo Gala, West Michigan Chalk Art Festival, and Taste of Muskegon. These events promise cultural experiences, delicious food, art, and entertainment for families and individuals alike. With free and low-cost options, these festivities showcase the community’s rich heritage and commitment to engagement.

Grand Rapids, Michigan is set to welcome summer with a weekend brimming with excitement and cultural festivities as several family-friendly events take place from June 13 to June 15. Highlights include the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival, the RendeZoo Gala at John Ball Zoo, the West Michigan Chalk Art Festival at Tanger Outlets, and the Taste of Muskegon at Hackley Park.

Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival

One of the highlight events will be the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival, located at Calder Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids. Taking place from June 13 to June 15, this festival celebrates Asian and Pacific Islander cultures through vibrant performances, traditional dances, and martial arts demonstrations. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on June 13 and 14, and from noon to 5 p.m. on June 15, allowing ample time for attendees to immerse themselves in cultural festivities.

Admission to the festival is free, making it accessible for everyone. Attendees can enjoy hands-on workshops, children’s activities, and a marketplace featuring various crafts and authentic food from Asia and the Pacific Islands. Notable highlights include a K-Pop Cover Dance Competition on June 13 and a concert by Voy Kwan on June 14, providing a dynamic experience full of entertainment.

RendeZoo Gala

Later on June 13 at 7 p.m., the annual RendeZoo Gala will be held at the John Ball Zoo, with ticket prices starting at $150. This gala fundraiser focuses on conservation efforts and features a theme titled “Nature’s Symphony.” Guests can expect gourmet food, handcrafted cocktails, and live entertainment while having the chance to mingle with zookeepers and animal ambassadors.

The event encourages attendees to dress in cocktail attire, inviting a sophisticated atmosphere that combines music with wildlife conservation storytelling.

West Michigan Chalk Art Festival

For those looking to experience creativity in action, the West Michigan Chalk Art Festival will take place at Tanger Outlets in Byron Center from June 13 to June 15, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. This free event invites artists to transform pavements into stunning temporary art and includes live music, inflatable games, and caricature art.

A special KidsChalk Event will occur on June 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., allowing children to participate in hands-on drawing activities. The festival will culminate in an awards ceremony recognizing the artistic talents displayed throughout the weekend.

Taste of Muskegon

In Muskegon, food lovers can delight in the Taste of Muskegon, hosted at Hackley Park on June 13 from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and June 14 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. This family-friendly festival features over 30 food vendors and trucks offering gourmet sandwiches, barbecue, ice cream, and more, with tasting tickets available on-site for $1 each.

The event will serve a variety of drinks, including Budweiser products, craft beer, wine, hard seltzers, and Muskegon craft cocktails, making it a perfect opportunity to indulge in local flavors while enjoying live music and activities.

Planning Tips

Visitors are encouraged to plan their weekend with convenience in mind. Many events are free or low-cost, and parking is readily available. It is advisable to bring sunscreen, cash or cards for vendors, and a hearty appetite to fully enjoy the rich cultural experiences offered at these events.

Community Engagement

This weekend serves as a testament to West Michigan’s vibrant summer culture, providing various opportunities for community engagement through food, art, and entertainment. Families and individuals are invited to participate in these diverse festivities that celebrate the region’s local culture.