Welcome to the Office of Special Events
Governor Whitmer's Executive Order 2020-21 'Stay Home, Stay Safe' order
Kent County Health Department COVID-19 Update
Grand Rapids City Manager Mark Washington following 'Stay Home, Stay Safe' order
The Office of Special Events (OSE) is committed to high-quality events that display our community’s vibrancy and diversity. Event organizers and attendees can find the latest updates for Special Events and General Information on COVID-19 in the blue banner at the top of the Office of Special Events’ webpage. If you’re postponing or cancelling your event, please contact the OSE at specialevents@grcity.us. Be sure to send your notice with a link to your posting so we can share it on our social media and post it on the City’s website. Thank you.
Update
(as of 3/24/20)
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Governor Whitmer's Executive Order 2020-21 calls for the cancellation of all events and temporary suspension of all in-person operations that are not necessary to protect or sustain life for the next 3 weeks. Although special events are important to our future as a community and success as an organization, they are not categorized as an essential service. All special event permit services are suspended until further notice. OSE staff is available by e-mail or phone to assist in future planning: Office of Special Events specialevents@grcity.us or 616-456-3378 (option 3).
Events + People = Community & Vibrancy
We have year-round activities and entertainment options for all Grand Rapids residents and visitors to enjoy. Browse through our upcoming events to find something fun to do.
We issue permits to promote unique, fun and creative events for all to enjoy. We permit events in the city to make sure they're accessible, safe and community focused. Want to check out the events we permit? Click here.
Need to permit your next event? Complete the online application below.
Apply for a Special Event Permit
Want to meet with us before submitting your application? We're happy to go over the details! Email us at the email address in the Contact Us section of this page.
Join us to experience the vibrant Grand Rapids community!