7 Ways to Celebrate the Season in Downtown Grand Rapids
Julie Bitely
| 2 min read
Feeling a little bah-humbug this year? Holiday lights are scheduled to be turned on this Friday, Nov. 20 in Grand Rapids and there are plenty of other fun, family-friendly reasons to head downtown.
Here’s a look at seven Grand Rapids events coming up this season:
- Window Wonderland. Through Nov. 27, you can vote for your favorite holiday window display designed by local art students from Kendall College of Art and Design. The displays will remain up through the season, but your vote could mean some great prizes from downtown businesses.
- Santa Parade. Welcome Santa Claus to town at the annual Santa Parade, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 21 at 9 a.m. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are sponsors of the parade.
- Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot. The 23rd annual Turkey Trot will be held on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 26 at 8 a.m. Kids trot free and the event benefits the Grand Rapids Public Schools. Blue Care Network is a sponsor of the race.
- Holiday Celebration Tree Lighting & Ice Skating Rink Opening. Kick off December by experiencing the lighting of Grand Rapids’ tree and opening day of ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle on Thursday, Dec. 3.
- Holiday’s Cheer. In the movie “Elf”, main character Buddy saves the day with this advice: “The best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear.” A group of Grand Rapidians has taken that advice to heart and formed this group, which will be caroling at various spots around the city. They are looking for volunteers to join them and maintain that you don’t have to be a great singer, but you must have a desire to spread cheer.
- Grand Caroling. If you prefer listening to carolers over joining in, Grand Caroling has you covered. Performances will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. on Fridays in December at the Welsh Auditorium on the bank of the Grand River.
- Avenue for the Arts Holiday Gallery and Shop Hop. Explore the unique shops and restaurants along South Division Avenue between Fulton and Wealthy streets. This special day of shopping and sales will be held from noon to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12.
Get your merry on by checking out Grand Rapids this holiday season! Tell us your favorite ways to celebrate the season in the comments.
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Photo credit: A Healthier Michigan
