The City of Grand Rapids Office of Special Events (OSE) is committed to generating year-round, high-quality events and activities that welcome all and display our community’s vibrancy and diversity. The mission of the OSE is to reinforce Grand Rapids’ position as a destination city by providing fun, safe, equitable, and inclusive special events, activities, and experiences for all Grand Rapids residents and visitors to enjoy.
Events and activities can bring diverse groups together; they bring us together. Events offer opportunities to share, celebrate, raise funds, promote causes, and to have fun. They create a sense of community by building social, emotional, and physical connections. When events happen, our city is vibrant, tourists visit, and our local economy thrives.
The City of Grand Rapids works with local organizers to generate vibrant, diverse events. One of the ways we accomplish this is by the Special Events Sponsorship Program. This program financially supports events that encourage community unity & pride, and promote equity & mobility. We'll give particular funding consider to events that align with the City's Strategic Plan. Additional information can be found in the sections below. For full program details, download the Special Events Sponsorship Program Policy linked to the right.
The Special Event Sponsorship Program application period for events occurring July - December 2023 is closed. The next application period will open in December for events occurring January - June 2024.