All will be merry and bright this Friday in downtown Grand Rapids as the city hosts its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Rosa Parks Circle.
Many local vendors and organizations will be on site to hand out free food and merchandise.
And in keeping with the spirit of the season, the Homeless Outreach Team will be at the Grand Rapids Fire Department booth accepting donations of hats, gloves, socks and handwarmers.
The Humane Society of West Michigan will also be on hand with Max, the Grinch’s dog, available for adoption, along with other puppies.
Attendees will be able to meet characters from The Nutcracker, as performed by the Grand Rapids Ballet. The U.S. Postal Service will also be available to help you mail your letters to Santa. Other organizations making an appearance include the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, Mexican Heritage Association of West Michigan, and the Grand Rapids Public Library, all providing fun activities and giveaways.
The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony is this Friday, December 1st from 5 to 7 p.m. Once the tree is lit, participants can join in the Jingle Bell Run, a free 3-mile run that begins at the northern end Rosa Parks Circle. Information on both the ceremony and the run can be found on the city of Grand Rapids website.
