New summer events bring fresh energy to Rosa Parks Circle

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Rosa Parks Circle, the iconic downtown plaza designed by artist and architect Maya Lin, will come alive this summer with a new and expanded lineup of community events. Known for its concerts, festivals, dances and winter ice rink, the Circle will now host even more ways for residents and visitors to connect, move and celebrate together.

While Tuesday Night Swing Dance remains a beloved tradition, the City and community event organizers are introducing several new programs that add fresh energy and variety to the summer season. These events are designed for all ages and interests, offering everything from fitness and skating to Latin dance and alcohol‑free social gatherings.

Because some events are weekly and others rotate or occur only once or twice a month, residents are encouraged to visit the City’s Events and Activities page for full schedules and details.

New and Expanded Summer Programming

• Sunday Soul Line Dancing — A new weekly class where participants learn soul line dances to R&B, soul, jazz, house, rap, and gospel music. Sundays starting July 5, 4 to 6 p.m.
• Monday Zumba — A high‑energy addition to the City’s Free Outdoor Fitness series, bringing movement and music to the Circle. Mondays, 6:30 to 7:15 p.m.
• Summer Sk8 Series — A new weekly roller‑skating event welcoming all ages and skill levels for fun, fitnes, and community. Wednesdays starting July 22, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Ice Guru Silent Disco — A new Thursday‑night silent disco series offering a unique, high‑energy experience under the downtown lights. Thursdays starting June 25, 6 to 10 p.m. (May include a participation fee.)
• Circle Up: Sober Social Game Night — A new alcohol‑free game night hosted by Michigan Sober Social, creating a welcoming space for connection. Fridays (tentatively starting in late July), 6 to 9 p.m. Special date Aug. 22: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Baila at Rosa: Latin Dance Series — A lively new Latin dance series celebrating culture, music and movement for families and dancers of all levels. Saturdays starting July 18, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Some events rotate between Fridays and Saturdays.)

The City’s Special Events Manager Evette Pittman said the expanded lineup reflects the community’s desire for more inclusive, active and family‑friendly programming downtown.

“Rosa Parks Circle has always been a place where people come together,” she said. “These new events give our community even more reasons to gather, dance and enjoy summer in the heart of our city.”

Rosa Parks Circle — once known as the Monroe Mall Amphitheater and renamed in 2001 to honor civil rights leader Rosa Parks, whose statue stands in the plaza — continues to serve as one of Grand Rapids’ most meaningful public spaces. 

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