ArtPrize 2025 will transform downtown Grand Rapids Sept. 19–Oct. 4; city outlines installations, transit and visitor resources
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Summary
City of Grand Rapids officials outlined locations, major installations, transportation options and visitor resources for ArtPrize 2025, scheduled for Sept. 19–Oct. 4, 2025, and encouraged residents and visitors to use posted guides and vote online.
The City of Grand Rapids announced that ArtPrize 2025 will run Sept. 19–Oct. 4, 2025, bringing a 17-day series of public art installations and events across downtown.
"Get ready. ArtPrize 2025 is taking over our downtown from September 19 to October 4, and the city is about to come alive," said Yvette Pittman, special events manager for the City of Grand Rapids. The city-provided program will include installations in parks, on bridges and along sidewalks as well as in galleries and local businesses.
City officials said the festival will feature family-friendly immersive works and neighborhood exhibitions across multiple downtown sites. "For 17 electric days, art will pop up everywhere from parks, bridges, and sidewalks to galleries, local shops, and your favorite cafes and eateries," said Kayla Kramer Frederick, special event coordinator for the City of Grand Rapids. One highlighted installation is Borealis, described as an immersive, family-friendly experience at a Monroe Street location; city staff said tickets are required for that installation.
Tickets for the Borealis installation "are required and can be purchased on Eventbrite," Kramer Frederick said. The city also identified a cluster of works at Sixth Street Park along the Grand River and an installation called Sky by Day, Sky by Night that will span the Blue Bridge.
Visitors can use the ArtPrize Clubhouse at 40 Pearl St. NW for maps, schedules and on-site assistance, the officials said. The clubhouse will also offer voter registration, merchandise sales and some workshops. "Whether you're a first time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the concierge desk has you covered with maps, schedules, and insider tips," Pittman said.
The city advised attendees to use the visitor and mobility guide on the city's website for parking locations, ramps and lots. Free pink DASH buses will circulate around downtown; the city also noted service by The Rapid and the availability of Lime scooters and bikes for short trips, with the reminder to download the relevant apps before riding.
City staff listed a range of accompanying events, including Maker's Markets, Education Days and community gatherings. The city pointed users to the event listing on grandrapidsmi.gov/events and to ArtPrize's site for voting: "Remember, this is your ArtPrize. Visit artprize.org to vote, customize your experience, save your favorites, and have an impact on who wins," Kramer Frederick said.
The announcement focused on logistics and visitor services rather than policy decisions or permits. Additional details, including ticketing and a full event schedule, are available on the City of Grand Rapids events page and the ArtPrize website.