GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (ABC 4)- Winter is still in motion, and West Michigan is celebrating this frosty time of year by hosting a variety of cool festivals!
Whether you enjoy food, music, cultural events, or live entertainment, there’s a festival for everyone to explore. Refer to our guide to find an event near you.
Winter festivals occurring in March 2024 ❄️
‘World of Winter’ in downtown Grand Rapids
The largest winter festival in the U.S. is still underway in Grand Rapids!
“World of Winter,” which takes place until March 10, is hosted by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. and offers the community over 100 free winter activities and events to explore. Learn more here.
’19th Kalamazoo Fretboard Festival’
The Kalamazoo Fretboard Festival is returning for its 19th year on Friday, March 1, and Saturday, March 2.
During the free community event hosted at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, attendees can “celebrate the city’s stringed instrument legacy and musical heritage.” View the schedule of performances here.
‘4th Annual Grand Rapids Bourbon Festival’
Calling all bourbon and whiskey enthusiasts! The “4th Annual Grand Rapids Bourbon Festival” returns to Studio D2D Event Center on Saturday, March 2.
This year’s festival features 200+ “whiskeys and bourbons, store picks, classic cocktails and high-end bottle section.” View more details and a list of vendors here.
‘Gilda’s LaughFest’
Prepare to laugh! A beloved community event, “Gilda’s LaughFest” returns for its 14th year in West Michigan.
Known as “the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter,” this year’s festival kicks off on March 6 and concludes on March 10. View the upcoming schedule of events here.
World of Winter: Noodle Fest
The ultimate battle of delicious noodle dishes returns! It’s the “World of Winter Noodle Fest” happening at Calder Plaza from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, March 9.
Come out and enjoy noodle samples from local chefs and businesses, vote for your favorite dish, have karaoke fun and more. Learn more here.
‘Kalamazoo Nature Center’s 59th Annual Maple Sugar Festival’
Join the Kalamazoo Nature Center in celebrating the maple sugaring season!
On Saturday, March 9, their 59th annual Maple Sugar Festival takes place, and a lineup of fun activities is in store. Attend a pancake breakfast, maple sugar tours, exhibits, live music, artmaking, animal ambassador presentations and more. View ticket prices and details here.
Irish on Ionia in Grand Rapids
Celebrate the luckiest time of year on Saturday, March 16!
Michigan’s largest St. Patrick’s Day Festival, “Irish on Ionia,” returns to downtown Grand Rapids from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and features a variety of entertainment, food trucks, Irish beer and spirits and more. Learn additional information here.
Sugarbush Festival at Blandford Nature Center
Blandford Nature Center will celebrate the soon-to-be “sweet arrival of spring” during its “54th Annual Sugarbush Festival.”
Held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, the program for all ages includes wildlife encounters, games, a demonstration of the maple sugaring process, crafts and more. View more details here.
Brick Fest Live at DeVos Place
It’s the ultimate event for LEGO lovers! “Brick Fest Live” is a family-friendly event where attendees can “build, race, create and meet LEGO® Masters and Cosplayers!” The fest is coming to DeVos Place Convention Center in Grand Rapids on Saturday, March 30, through Sunday, March 31.
Learn about the upcoming fun and purchase tickets here.
Know of a festival not included on this list? Email details to morgan.poole@woodtv.com to have it added!
