The World of Winter Festival is a free, outdoor celebration in Downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, celebrating winter through art, events and activities for all ages. Presented by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., the festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland each year.

Now in its 6th year, World of Winter features stunning art installations, interactive exhibits and live performances, offering a unique way to embrace the season and enjoy the beauty of winter.

Schedule of Events:

January 11, 2025

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Opening Event: Starry Night Drone Show

Join us for the exciting Opening Kickoff Event of the 2025 World of Winter Festival! Enjoy live DJs, mesmerizing drone shows, captivating performances and delicious food trucks as we kick off the festival in style.

Schedule:

6:30 PM: First Drone Show
8:00 PM: Second Drone Show

What to Expect:

Live DJ Performances: Dance to high-energy beats all night long.
Drone Shows: Experience two breathtaking drone light shows.
Live Performers: Enjoy entertainment from talented artists throughout the evening.
Food Trucks: Savor a variety of savory and sweet food truck offerings.

January 12, 2025

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Photo Walk

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.

January 15, 2025

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Chalk River Labs : Technology, Art and the Power of Projection

Join us for an inspiring artist talk as part of the World of Winter Festival!

What to Expect:

-Jay Tettamanti’s Artist Talk: Dive into the creative journey of Jay Tettamanti, the award-winning artist behind Chalk River Labs, as he showcases his renowned projection sculptures that blend light, sound and form.
-Behind the Scenes: Discover the process, career highlights and the transformative power of merging art and technology.
-DGRI’s Activate Grants: Learn about Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc.’s (DGRI) Activate Grants, offering up to $10,000 in funding for creative projects that activate public spaces in 2025.
-Q&A Session: Get your questions answered and gain insights into how to turn ideas into impactful public art installations.
-Free Registration!

Reserve

January 16, 2025

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Guided Walking Tour: The Chilly Challenge

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: Thursdays at 12:00 PM, Jan 9–Feb 20.
Expert Guide: Caroline Cook shares shares captivating city stories.
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!

January 17, 2025

7:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Fashion Show

Step into this exclusive Winter Fashion Reworks Fashion Show. Hosted on the iconic Gillett Bridge, this unique event features two 30-minute fashion shows showcasing reimagined winter trends, designed by the talented team at Second Vibess.

What to Expect:

Two Fashion Shows: Enjoy two exciting 30-minute shows featuring the best of Second Vibess Winter Fashion Reworks, with stylish outerwear and innovative layers.
Winter Fashion Reworks: See fresh twists on classic winter styles, featuring bold designs, new textures and creative layers.
Iconic Bridge Venue: Experience the fashion show set against the stunning Gillett Bridge, offering a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

January 18, 2025

7:00 pm - 11:00 pm: Silent Disco

Dance under the stars with live DJs, fire performers and stunning light displays at the Silent Disco. Stay tuned as we get ready to announce the full DJ line up for this event.

Pro Tip: Headphones are available on a first-come, first-served basis—arrive early to grab yours! You must be present to claim yours; no picking up for others.

Schedule:

7:00–8:00 PM – DJ Sets 1 & 2
8:00–9:00 PM – DJ Sets 3 & 4
9:00–10:00 PM – DJ Sets 5 & 6
10:00–11:00 PM – DJ Sets 7 & 8

What to Expect:

-Giant Interactive Lite Brite
-Two DJs every hour
-Fire performers & LED stilt walkers
-Interactive art & food trucks
-Cozy fire pits & drinks

January 19, 2025

9:00 am - 11:00 am: Snowga at 555 Monroe

Join us for a unique morning event that blends a relaxing yoga session with a fun run or walk! Whether you’re into yoga, running or walking, this event will energize both your body and mind. Afterward, enjoy hot beverages and the chance to win exciting prizes!

What to Expect:

Yoga: Stretch and relax with expert guidance from Morgan Kline.
Run & Walk: A fun, all-levels workout.
Hot Beverages: Warm up with refreshing drinks.
Prizes & Snacks: Enjoy treats and win prizes!

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm: Sound Bath & Meditation at Calder Plaza

Join Grand Rapids Yoga Co. 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.

January 22, 2025

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Guided Walking Tour: Art Installations

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.

January 23, 2025

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Guided Walking Tour: The Chilly Challenge

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: Guided Walking Tour: The Chilly Challenge

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!

January 24, 2025

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: BONIMGET – Traditional Native Hoop Dance

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.

January 25, 2025

12:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Ice Breaker

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: Vote for your favorite design by 12/31/24 and see it revealed live!
Outdoor Fun: Enjoy the winter magic at Rosa Parks Circle with this free, family-friendly event.

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Guided Walking Tour: Art Installations

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.

6:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Fire & Ice

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 Skating Cost:

Adults (18+): $6
Youth (17 & under): $3
10-Hole Punch Card: $22

January 26, 2025

12:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Ice Park & Food Truck Rally

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—perfect for families and friends!
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, Eastown Cereal, The Smokin Unicorn, Roasted Red’s and Olly’s Donuts

January 29 ,2025

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Guided Walking Tour: African American History on The Grand

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.

January 30, 2025

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Guided Walking Tour: The Chilly Challenge

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: Guided Walking Tour: The Chilly Challenge

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!

January 31, 2025

6:00 pm - 9:30 pm: Disco on Ice

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:

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

Date: January 10, 2025 - January 31, 2025

Location: Various Location

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