GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The City of Grand Rapids is kicking off the holiday season this Saturday with the annual holiday tree lighting event.
The tree lighting will take place around 6:45 p.m., but the event runs from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at Rosa Parks Circle.
In addition to the tree lighting, there will be booths set up with activities, merchandise, food, live music, freebies and more. Some of the free food will be cookies, ice cream, Kilwin's and hot cocoa.
Some of the activities include:
- Checking out a book at the Grand Rapids Public Library mobile bus
- Writing a letter to Santa at the USPS booth
- Watching on-ice performances by the Greater Grand Rapids Figure Skating Club
- Listening to The Salvation Army Brass Band
The Gentex Santa Parade will also be held on Dec. 7 at 5 p.m. and will culminate with Santa being delivered to Rosa Parks Circle for the tree lighting ceremony.
Ice skating at Rosa Parks circle will also be available (weather permitting) during the tree lighting event.
About 15 minutes after the tree lighting around 7 p.m., a free 3-mile "Jingle Bell Run" that begins on the sidewalk near Monroe Center and Monroe Avenue. The just-for-fun run has no timing, medals, bibs, etc.
The run will pass by many downtown decorations and lights. Runners are encouraged to wear ugly sweaters, bells and light up gear.
Learn more about the run, the tree lighting and the Santa Parade here.
