Special events highlight the year in Grand Rapids. The flood watch of Spring draws thousands to view in awe the power of Mother Nature. Rapids Rally Days add fun and frolic to mid-summer. The fall season brings color tours to the river valley and the very successful Applebutter Fest. Finally, the Christmas Season brings festive decorations, the Open House Celebration, and a glimpse of Christmas long ago.
Rally By The River Days
The Rally by the River, held in July, is a vibrant community event featuring a Friday night kick-off party, parade, rubber duck drop, cardboard boat regatta, kids activities, ice cream socials and a puppy parade. This fun-filled celebration brings together people of all ages to enjoy exciting activities and support local initiatives. www.visitgrandrapidsohio.org
Run to the Rapids
Village Garage Sale
Sunset Jazz & Arts Festival
August 17, 2025
Hosted by the Grand Rapids Arts Council featuring an evening of jazz and art with edibles and spirits on the Grand Rapids Towpath.
A fun filled evening with live jazz music, Artist’s booths, brew and great edibles from our local eateries. Bring your lawn chairs.
For more information or to volunteer, contact 419-832-ARTS
Applebutter Fest
October 12, 2025
Always held the second Sunday of October, this festival features Heritage Craftsmen, juried crafts, entertainment, great food, vintage farm equipment, re-enactment groups and pioneer demonstrations, the traditional apple butter stir, and shops brimming with goodies.
For more information contact
Steve Kryder (419) 748-8238
Chuck Thomas (419) 265-7936
Harvest Moon Gala
Harvest Moon Benefit for the Arts
The GRAC Harvest Moon Benefit for the Arts is the Arts Council’s primary fundraising event, featuring a fine dinner, silent auction, and live entertainment. Proceeds from the event support the council’s efforts to promote and sustain the arts within the community.
Grand Rapids Bloodmobiles
Each bloodmobile will run from 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
at the Hosanna Lutheran Church
23019 Kellogg Road
Grand Rapids, OH
Donors need to be 17 years old, weigh at least 110 lbs, and be in good health. Donors need to bring their Red Cross card or their drivers license or another picture ID.
For more information, contact:
Jim or Gloria Kutchenriter
419-215-5416
runnermom2001@hotmail.com
“Save a life, give blood.”
Christmas Open House
November 22, 2025 • 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
November 23, 2025 • 11 am – 5:00 pm
Weekend before Thanksgiving.
Quaint Gift Shops
Tempting Restaurants
Holiday Music & Entertainment
Horse Drawn Wagon Rides
Ice Sculpting
and More . . .
Call 419-832-1106 for more details and a schedule.
Christmas Sing-a-long
Dec. 12, 2025
Join us in our historic Town Hall for our annual Christmas Sing-a-long.
Light up the Night
Light up the Night is a weekend celebration featuring a variety of entertainment, culminating in a Saturday night parade with a special visit from Santa. This festive event brings the community together to enjoy holiday cheer and create lasting memories.
Summer Art Camp
June 9-13, 2025
Bring the kids ages 1st grade thru 6th for mini sessions of art camp.
Instructors provide a craft from 9 – 11:30 am Monday – Friday
For more information visit www.grandrapidsartscouncil.org
Rhythm on the River Concert Series
The Rhythm on the River Concert Series is a summer concert series sponsored by the Historical Society of Grand Rapids, Ohio. These concerts are presented free to the public at the Wright Pavilion behind
LaRoe’s on the Tow Path at 4:00 pm. Bring a chair or blanket, but do come and enjoy the music!
To view the current schedule click here.
Seven Eagles Historical Education Center
Seven Eagles Historical Education Center will be open every Saturday from 12:00 pm until 5:00 pm.
(419) 509-0095
www.seven-eagles.org