ArtPrize & Beyond:
2023 Events
Grand Rapids is known for so many amazing events, and ArtPrize may be one of the biggest. ArtPrize is an annual, international art competition of 650 works of art, spanning three square miles running from September 14 to October 1. It’s a fanfare of ideas, conversations, experimentation, and inclusiveness. It presents an opportunity for visitors to engage in a large-scale scavenger hunt, seeking out pieces that resonate with them. One of the amazing things about ArtPrize is that the winner is determined by visitors votes, and they win $200,000.
There are many incredible events taking place around town this month, some part of ArtPrize, as well as others that are not associated with the festival, but are well worth checking out too!
2023 ArtPrize Events Guide
Games, food trucks, art installations, fireworks, and a performance by acclaimed audiovisual band Squonk!
When: Sept 14, 5–9pm
Where: Ah-Nab-Awen Park
Students from Kendall College will be painting on Honda vehicles. Each finalist will win $1,500!
When: Sept 14–17
Where: on Monroe Center, near Rosa Parks Circle
An art competition blended with sustainability created by high school students of Grand Rapids Public Schools.
When: Sept 17, 12–2pm
Where: Studio Park
A celebratory reveal of the top 25 ArtPrize entries based on the public vote, with live music by Y Not.
When: Sept 22, 5–8pm
Where: 555 Monroe
Over 80 vendors selling crafts, along with food trucks and live music.
When: Sept 23–24, 11am–7pm
Where: Ah-Nab-Awen Park & Gillete Bridge
ArtPrize Closing Awards Ceremony
Celebration of winners and participants featuring food vendors, immersive experiences, and live music.
When: Sept 29, 6:30–9:30pm
Where: Rosa Parks Circle
Other Amazing Artistic Events in Grand Rapids
Food, art, music, dance, and more celebrating Mexican culture.
When: Sept 8–10
Where: Calder Plaza
Grand Rapids African American Art & Music Festival
Diverse art, music, dance, food, and merchandise from BIPOC vendors.
When: Sept 15–16
Where: Studio Park
30+ food trucks, art activities, live performances, beer, and more
When: Sept 15–17
Where: Calder Plaza
A revived production of the classic musical from 1964, coming to DeVos!
When: Sept 19–24
Where: DeVos Performance Hall
A STEM-based adventure-land featuring high-tech robotics and drones.
When: Sept 22–23
Where: Calder Plaza
Over 40,000 square feet of LEGO displays, unique vendors, play stations, and more.
When: Sept 22–24
Where: DeVos Place Convention Center
German beers and wines, food, and entertainment.
When: Sept 29–30
Where: Riverside Park
Purchase tasting tickets to try beers from all around the US!
When: Sept 30
Where: Calder Plaza
A fanfare
of ideas, conversations, experimentation, & inclusiveness.
