Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Grand Rapids East, MI

Known simply as "Festival," this three-day event originated in the surge of enthusiasm following the installation of...

Known simply as "Festival," this three-day event originated in the surge of enthusiasm following the installation of Alexander Calder's sculpture La Grande Vitesse in 1969. Today, Festival embraces not only visual arts but musical performances, culinary demonstrations, dance, acting, and more. Get in touch with your creative side at the adult paint-in, or simply enjoy a poetry reading or a short film. Kids love face-painting, storytelling, and all the opportunities to express their artistic genius.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Fri, Jun 1, 2012 Sat, Jun 2, 2012 Sun, Jun 3, 2012

Don't know port from starboard? Not to worry -- everyone from novices to die-hard boaters finds something of interest at...

Don't know port from starboard? Not to worry -- everyone from novices to die-hard boaters finds something of interest at this show. Running for more than 60 years, the five-day event features sailboats, pontoon boats, fishing boats, power boats, and a variety of other vessels and accoutrements. In years past, special exhibits and events have included a display of antique scuba gear, a demonstration dive tank, a boating safety certification class, and feats of daring from Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel. Set sail for the show on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Hours: Wed, Feb 13, 2013: 3pm - 9:30pm Thu, Feb 14, 2013: 3pm - 9:30pm Fri, Feb 15, 2013: 11am - 9:30pm Sat, Feb 16, 2013: 10am - 9pm Sun, Feb 17, 2013: 11am - 6pm

Bring a blanket and a picnic dinner to these concerts, which feature internationally-recognized artists performing in a...

Bring a blanket and a picnic dinner to these concerts, which feature internationally-recognized artists performing in a beautiful amphitheater. Musical offerings are diverse but excellent; past performers have included Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, Nickel Creek, and Koko Taylor. Occasionally, the series goes classical, providing a change of pace from the usual lineup of rock, blues, and country. Seating is general admission, so come early and claim a spot to enjoy the tunes. Gates open at 6pm; concerts begin at 7pm.

Hours: Fri, Jun 1, 2012 Sun, Jun 17, 2012 Thu, Aug 16, 2012 Wed, Aug 29, 2012

Spreading the good cheer of Christmas traditions from all over the globe, this delightful festival boasts scores of...

Spreading the good cheer of Christmas traditions from all over the globe, this delightful festival boasts scores of decorated trees, hundreds of thousands of lights, and multiculturalism in all its splendor. The inspired folks at the Meijer Gardens also showcase an indoor, G-scale railway garden that features Grand Rapids landmarks, constructed of all-natural materials like bark and acorns. Carriage rides are available as well. A true holiday treat for the whole family.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details November 2012 December 2012 January 2013

Cross-cultural understanding and education are missions of this three-day event, a mainstay in Grand Rapids for over a...

Cross-cultural understanding and education are missions of this three-day event, a mainstay in Grand Rapids for over a quarter of a century. A wide array of Latin American countries is represented in food items, live music, entertainment, and arts and crafts. The area's largest ethnic festival draws over 50,000 guests and appeals to the region's fast-growing Hispanic population and to the rest of the Grand Rapids community. All proceeds benefit the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details September 2012

Over 35 national and international automobile manufacturers display upwards of 300 cars at this auto show. Concept cars,...

Over 35 national and international automobile manufacturers display upwards of 300 cars at this auto show. Concept cars, antique autos, and even a few models with price tags over $100,000 are up for inspection. All types of cars are represented: sports cars, SUVs, trucks, sedans, convertibles, and environmentally-friendly hybrids. Whether you're in the market for a new set of wheels or merely want to examine a Lamborghini up close, the auto show provides plenty to see and do in an afternoon.

Hours: January 2013

A community celebration in the truest sense, this event honors different features and attractions each year, including...

A community celebration in the truest sense, this event honors different features and attractions each year, including the Van Andel Institute and the Gerald R. Ford Museum. Regional acts and nationally-known bands provide toe-tapping live entertainment over the festival's three days. Other crowd-pleasers include film screenings and magnificent fireworks displays over the river. Refreshments are on hand to keep your spirits high, and there are games for kids as well.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Thu, Sep 6, 2012 Fri, Sep 7, 2012 Sat, Sep 8, 2012

Upwards of 200 vendors display goods at this one-day crafts sale, which attracts some 15,000 visitors searching for...

Upwards of 200 vendors display goods at this one-day crafts sale, which attracts some 15,000 visitors searching for unique, handmade treasures. Now over 30 years old, the neighborhood event takes place outdoors and offers a crafts area for kids and an "Art in the Making" booth where attendees can get up-close-and personal with some of the art media they encounter. Food stations ensure that you browse the fair on a full stomach. A perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind gift or decorative knick-knack for your home.

Hours: September 2012

May means one thing in Kent County: time to get pickin'! The West Michigan Bluegrass Music Association holds this event...

May means one thing in Kent County: time to get pickin'! The West Michigan Bluegrass Music Association holds this event in May. Several bands and solo performers take the stage over the event's three days, and you can count on hearing plenty of bluegrass's trademark tight harmonies and musicianship. Instrument workshops, an arts and crafts exhibition, children's activities, and a bake sale round out the attractions. For a small nightly fee, you may camp at the fairgrounds both evenings.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Fri, May 18, 2012 Sat, May 19, 2012 Sun, May 20, 2012