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:

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