GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (ABC 4)- West Michigan is beautiful in all seasons, especially winter! This time of year, it transforms into a gorgeous wonderland featuring stunning scenery and annual events and activities to enjoy!
If you’re craving to get outdoors, explore and make the most of the season, then check out these festivals and shows many West Michiganders look forward to yearly!
West Michigan Winter Festivals
World of Winter
Location: Downtown Grand Rapids
Date: Jan 6- March 5, 2023
The Midwest’s largest winter festival returns with over 100 free events, activities and outdoor instillations. Bring the entire family along to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience in Downtown Grand Rapids.
See events, outdoor art, and more here.
36th Battle Creek RV & Camping Show
Location: Kellogg Arena, Battle Creek
Date: March 3-March 5
Time: Varies by day
Take a trip to the Kellogg Arena for the 36th Annual Battle Creek RV & Camping Show. According to the West Michigan Tourist Association, nearly 40 units (folding camping trailers, travel trailers, etc.) will be featured. Additionally, exhibitors will be in attendance to share information on campgrounds, financing and rentals.
Learn more here.
Midwest RAD Fest
Location: The Epic Center in Kalamazoo, MI
Date: March 3- March 5
Time: Varies by events
30 choreographers, filmakers, movement installation artists, and dance instructors from all over the world are participating in the Midwest RAD fest and you’re invited to attend! The 14th annual event, hosted by SouthWest Michigan’s “oldest professional dance company,” features master classes, concerts, presentations, interactive lectures/discussions are more.
Learn more here
Kalamazoo Fretboard Festival
Location: Kalamazoo Valley Museum
Date: March 3-4
Time: Varies by scheduled events
Now in its 18th year, the Fretboard Festival returns to Kalamazoo and offers the community a free and entertaining way to “celebrate the city’s stringed-instrument legacy and musical heritage.”
See the schedule of events and performers here.
7th Annual Kalamazoo Wine Not?
Location: Fetzer Center, Kalamazoo, MI
Date: March 4
Time: Based on ticket purchase
Sample over 40 wineries and 80+ wines, all in one place! The 7th Annual Kalamazoo Wine Not? is returning, and guests can sip on beverages, take a stroll, and enjoy an afternoon/evening of festivities. In addition to wine sampling, attendees can listen to live music, visit vendor booths and meet winemakers.
More information can be found here.
4th Annual Brrs, Bears & Brews: A Lumberjack Festival
Location: Turner St., Lansing, MI
Date: March 4
Time: Noon to 5 pm
Calling all Lumberjack enthusiasts! After a long hiatus, the 4th Annual Brrs, Bears & Brews is coming back! This old-school event stretches from Cesar Chavez to Clinton St., and features tons of outdoor vendors, old town businesses, beard and mustache competitions, feats of strength team competitions and much more!
Find additional information here.
3rd Annual Grand Rapids Bourbon Festival
Location: Studio D2D Event Center, Grand Rapids
Date: March 4
Time: 4 pm
Raise your glasses! The 3rd Annual Grand Rapids Bourbon Festival is coming up, and will feature 200+ whiskeys and bourbons, classic cocktails and high-end bottle section, and store picks for attendees to try. Event organizers also share there will be non-alcoholic, wine and beer options as well. Hosted indoors, the Bourbon Festival will also entail live music/entertainment, vendors, food trucks, and more!
Grab your tickets and learn more here.
LaughFest
Location: Varies by events
Date: March 8- March 12
Get ready to laugh and have a good time for a great cause! First established in March 2011, LaughFest raises awareness of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, and features stand-up comedy acts, improv sessions, and “a variety of seriously funny staff.”
Check out the 2023 lineup, purchase tickets and learn more online.
Irish on Ionia
Location: Downtown Grand Rapids
Date: March 18
After a three-year hiatus, Irish on Ionia returns to Downtown Grand Rapids. The largest St. Patrick’s Day Street festival in Michigan will feature “Irish-themed food, beer, and entertainment as well as local draft beer and cocktails.”
Learn more here.
53rd Annual SugarBush Festival
Location: Blandford Nature Center
Date: March 25
Time: 10 am- 2 pm
Spring is on the horizon, and you’re invited to celebrate the season’s sweet arrival at the Blandford Nature Center. The 53rd Annual SugarBush Festival is being held, and teaches the community about the maple sugaring process. Attendees will be able to participate in Sugarbush demonstrations, sugar taste tests, wildlife encounters, games, crafts and more.
View ticket pricings and event details
