Special Event Permit
Planning to host an event in Grand Rapids? We help you to check venue availability and plan your event.
Note: Due to COVID-19 we are encouraging all event planners to have a back-up plan and be ready to pivot as necessary. Events are able to hold one back-up date, this date can be noted in the application or it can be e-mailed to us.
If your event is less than 100 people and does not need any city services (i.e. trash/recycle carts, street closures, GRPD, etc.), you'll want to complete our Fast App here or download the PDF version here(PDF, 363KB).
If your event is 100+ people and will need city services, please complete our standard Special Event Permit Application here(PDF, 481KB). A breakdown of the submission process can be found here.
Reservations
Do you have a great idea but don't have all the information for your application just yet? That’s okay! If your event is over 30 days away, just submit a Reservation Form to pencil your event in on our calendar.
Wedding Permit
Want to get married in a park? Great choice! We've outlined the steps to apply for a permit.
Apply for a Wedding Permit
Film and Photography Permit
Want to film your next project in a public space? Check if you need a permit and we'll guide you through the process.
Apply for a Film and Photography Permit
Blue Bridge & Gallery Ramp Active Lighting Request
Brighten your city by requesting to customize lighting for the Blue Bridge and/or the Gallery Parking Ramp. We have tons of pre-programmed colors for you to choose from - the possibilities are endless!
Apply to change the Blue Bridge or Gallery Ramp Lighting
Rent Equipment
Need to use equipment and want to rent instead of buy? We have stages, bleachers, P.A. systems, tents and more.
Apply for Equipment Rental
Request Outdoor Games
Looking to add that something 'special' to your event? Check out the outdoor games we offer! We have options such as large tic-tac-toe, giant dominoes, cornhole, and more!
Apply to request outdoor games(PDF, 385KB)