Free Events Aim to Connect Residents with Local Parks

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — The Friends of Grand Rapids Parks has released its 2026 community event lineup, offering a series of free activities designed to help residents engage with the city's parks and learn about local ecology.

The nonprofit organization announced events spanning from May through August, featuring activities like wildflower walks, bird watching, gravel bike races, insect exploration, and skateboard workshops. All events are free to attend with light refreshments provided, according to the organization's announcement.

"When we say 'you belong out here,' we mean it!" the organization stated in their announcement.

Events partner with local experts and organizations to provide hands-on learning opportunities. Participants register in advance to help the organization plan refreshments.

May Events Focus on Wildflowers and Birds

The lineup kicks off in May with two wildflower walks led by ecologist Pete Quakenbush. The first walk at Ken-O-Sha Park on May 1 from 9-10am will explore spring ephemeral wildflowers, including threatened species like Virginia bluebells.

A second wildflower walk at Aman Park on May 9 from 1-2pm will explore the park's unique ecology alongside Quakenbush, the Kent Conservation District, and the Old-Growth Forest Network.

On May 16 from 8-10am, a bird watching event at Ken-O-Sha Park will be guided by Cynthia Maas, Dr. Daniel Goldberg, and Cliff Hodge of the Grand Rapids Audubon Club. Participants will hike the Ken-O-Sha Park trails along Plaster Creek and learn about local bird populations. The event is kid-friendly and includes a kid-specific activity.

Summer Events Include Races and Workshops

June and July feature gravel bike races at the Grand Rapids Bike Park. The June 27 race runs from 6-9pm, with another race on July 25 at the same time. Both events are hosted by Jeff Jacobi, described as a local legend and "Bike Guy."

The races take place on a two-lap course around an old baseball infield. The organization describes the events as opportunities for both seasoned racers and first-timers to enjoy the thrill of competition while experiencing Grand Rapids' parks.

August Brings Insect Exploration and Skateboarding

The August lineup features two distinct events. On August 8 from 9am-12pm, the Incredible Insect Extravaganza at Plaster Creek Family Park offers activities for insect lovers and skeptics alike. The event explores how conservation impacts insect populations and includes activities for all ages.

Event partners for the insect extravaganza include The Grand Rapids Bug Club, Plaster Creek Stewards, LGROW, Solidago Landscape Design, Madison Memering, Pangea Reptile, and C4.

On August 13 from 6-8pm, a skateboard workshop at Roberto Clemente Park will be led by Chris Gray of the Graytones. The workshop teaches skateboarding fundamentals and explores the history of the community-powered skateboard park. Skateboards, pads, and other gear are provided for participants.

ArborFest Plants 250 Trees

In addition to the event lineup, the organization also promotes ArborFest 2026, their 11th annual spring planting event. The event, brought in collaboration with the City of Grand Rapids and Garfield Park Neighborhood Association, will plant 250 trees in Garfield Park and Southtown on April 24 and 25.

Since 2015, the organization has planted over 4,000 trees through ArborFest and their Neighborwoods initiative. Their work focuses on planting trees in neighborhoods that need the canopy the most, with a goal of helping the City of Grand Rapids reach 40% tree canopy coverage.

Supporting the Work

The Friends of Grand Rapids Parks encourages community support through volunteer opportunities and donations. The organization notes that donations fund park activation, volunteer opportunities, and tree plantings.

Sources:

• Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, "Announcing Friends of Grand Rapids Parks' 2026 Community Event Lineup," https://friendsofgrparks.org/announcing-friends-of-grand-rapids-parks-2026-community-event-lineup/
• Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, "ArborFest," https://friendsofgrparks.org/events/arborfest/