Let’s explore social events in Grand Rapids, MI happening this week. Local events are a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Look through this page and consider going out and socializing during one of these social events.
Social events are great and offer a world of possibilities. You can make new friends, learn new skills, see things from different perspectives and it’s fantastic for your mental health. And never before has companionship and being able to spend time with others been as important as it is today.
You probably remember being a kid and going up to another person your age and saying, “Do you want to be friends?” and that was pretty much that. Friend made. Alas, it’s not quite as simple now that we’re grown up, but it doesn’t have to be as difficult or as awkward as we think. There are thousands of people out there who would love to meet up with others, finding them just takes a bit of help and that’s what we’re here for.
On this page, we hope you’ll find some interesting events in Grand Rapids where you can make some new friends.
Local Groups’ Events in Grand Rapids
Free Community Yoga @ GRFUMC
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 21st
◦ Where: 227 Fulton St E
Free Yoga Classes on TUESDAYS at GRFUMC! Join seasoned instructor Peri from 6:00 – 7:00 pm on Tuesday nights!
Join us for mixed-level, community yoga at First United Methodist Church. We have plenty of yoga mats and other supplies to share. Park in any of the lots along Barclay Ave. and enter the church through the double glass doors off of the north parking lot. We will be in Wesley Hall, in the(…)
Python Lightning Talks
◦ When: Monday, Jan 20th
◦ Where: The Factory
This month, the presenter is… you! Feel free to bring a casual, 5-10 minute presentation to show off a new project, something you’ve learned, or any other topic that interests you. We want to give everyone a chance to present, but if there is time at the end, folks can have more than one slot.
Afterwards, feel free to join us for drinks and dinner at the nearby HopCat brewery.(…)
Long Shot
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: Vandermill Brewing
If you’re new to the group, welcome! I have us reserved under “Nick Easler”, so just check with the host when you arrive and they’ll help you find us.
See you there!(…)
Bouldering Night at Terra Firma
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: Terra Firma Bouldering Co.
Join us for an exciting night of bouldering! No ropes, no harness, all you need is yourself, good friends, climbing shoes & chalk.
This is an event for all levels! First time climbers can hang with Sydney, she’ll show you how to approach & get started on the wall.
Meet in the lobby at 7:30 with your waiver signed.
Terra Firma is hooking us up with a group discount so kindly let them know you’re(…)
Tai Chi Gung class
◦ When: Monday, Jan 20th
◦ Where: Tai Chi Gung Grand Rapids
I’ve added a new class to the Tai Chi Gung schedule! This class will take place every Monday morning at 9:30. I would love to see everyone there! Contact me if you have any questions, (616) 706 – 8054 or [email protected].
-Patti(…)
Speed to Value: The Business of Design
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 21st
◦ Where: The Addition
Most creators use roughly the same formula for their craft: plan, design, build, and put it out into the world. And this is exactly why most startups fail, why most innovation efforts in corporations get their budgets cut, and why many creators become suffering cogs in the wheel. With a slight change in perspective, you can elevate yourself from a simple creator to someone who has a seat at the ta(…)
Navigating West Michigan’s Real Estate Market: Local Investor Panel Discussion
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: Prince Conference Center at Calvin College
Join us for a panel discussion with experienced local real estate investors as they share their insights on the current trends and challenges shaping West Michigan’s real estate market. Hear their outlook on the industry and learn strategies for navigating the market over the next year.
**Cost: RPOA Member \- $35 \| Non\-Member \- $50**
**[Click here to register!](https://www.rpoaonline.org/event(…)
Ada Photography Club: Photo Walk – World of Winter Fire and Ice
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 25th
◦ Where: Rosa Parks Circle
Our first Photo Adventure! Lets go downtown and capture photos at the World of Winter Event Fire and Ice!
We can practice some night and action photography!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/623682286245994(…)
Weekly Networking
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: Grand Rapids Buisness Engagement
We are a group of Business minded individuals who meet on a weekly basis to share ideas, connections, and referrals. Guests are always welcome! Our group formed this year so there are still professionals we are looking to connect with.
The format of a weekly meeting includes casually connecting before the meeting, 60 second commercials, discussing asks / referrals that were exchanged this past we(…)
🧑🎨 Meet and Greet / Coloring and Activities for Shy People
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: Schuler’s Books and Music
Let’s get together for a causal Meet & Greet and coloring and activities event!
Coloring is a great way to unwind and relax. Feel free to come even f you just want to hang out. Bring your favorite coloring book and utensils or other activities. We will color and chat. It’s a great way to meet new people in a relaxed environment.
Feel free to come and just hang out as well.
Look for us in Schule(…)
First Great Books Meetup
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: Küsterer Brauhau
Let’s begin the year by discussing which books we read in 2024 and which we’d like to read in 2025!(…)
Board Game Night!
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 21st
◦ Where: House Rules Lounge
Do you love meeting new people?
Do you love board games?
Do you want to meet other gamers?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this event is for you!
Join us for Meet, Greet, and Play Night at House Rules Lounge at 6:00PM on Tuesdays.
The lounge features a full bar that includes wine & cocktails, plus 20 draft beverages ranging across coffee, soda, cider, mead, and of course beer(…)
West Michigan Estuary – Grand Rapids meeting location
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 21st
◦ Where: 700 Burke Ave NE
Happy New Year Everyone,
I hope you all had the opportunity to enjoy time with friends and family over the holidays. I’m sure it will take some time to adjust to writing 25 instead of 24 when writing the date down is required, but I’ll adjust eventually ;-).
I have a bit of housekeeping to share. When these meetings were first convened back in 2019 it was known as the Jordan Peterson Meetup. We we(…)
Swingin’ to the Blues
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 25th
◦ Where: The Grand Celebration Center
Swingin’ to the Blues is an event held every fourth Friday of the Month.
Dance lesson with Jean Guild at 7:30 pm followed by open dancing!
Come dance to a variety of popular music for hustle, west coast swing, night club, country 2 step, and ballroom music!
$10 cover.
No partner needed. Dance host will be available to dance with everyone!
5pm Happy Hour and Dinner from the Grand Celebration will (…)
Hey Carnivores or Carnivore Curious! MeatUp at KPOT GR! Newcomers welcome!
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 21st
◦ Where: KPOT Korean BBQ and Hot Pot
We’re getting together to share a carnivore meal and discuss this lifestyle and way of eating. We often discuss new science discoveries and ways to fine tune individual diet plans.(…)
Tai Chi Gung class
◦ When: Friday, Jan 24th
◦ Where: Tai Chi Gung Grand Rapids
I’ve added a new class to the Tai Chi Gung schedule! This class will take place every Thursday evening at 7:00. I would love to see everyone there! Contact me if you have any questions, (616) 706 – 8054 or [email protected].
-Patti(…)
Tai’ Chi Gung Class
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: Tai Chi Gung Grand Rapids
Learn the simple moving and breathing exercises created by Lao Tzu more than 3,000 years ago for health and longevity. Discover the secrets to:
* **Increase** positive energy & stamina
* **Enhance** your ability to focus & concentrate
* **Support** better range of motion
* **Improve sleep**: Wake up feeling more refreshed
* **Create** deeper prayers and meditation
First class free, save your spa(…)
Latin Thursdays
◦ When: Friday, Jan 24th
◦ Where: Social Dance Studio of Grand Rapids
Adult dance classes open to the public!
7pm bachata
8pm salsa
Every Thursday
No experience needed
No partner needed
15.00/class drop in
10.00/class pay for the month(…)
Swing Dance Lessons & Social Dancing in Grand Rapids!
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: Grand Rapids Public Museum
Locations vary so please check the list below.
Admission $10
Join us every Tuesday night at different indoor locations in Grand Rapids for an evening filled with swing dance lessons and social dancing! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to swing dancing, our instructors will guide you through the steps and help you perfect your moves. The event starts at 7 PM, so don’t be late!
After the lesso(…)
Tips to meet people at social events
One of the best ways to meet new people at social events in Grand Rapids is by choosing a common theme or interest. If you like movies, why not go see a screening with people who also like movies! Then you already have something to talk about. Or if you’re into coffee or beer, a Coffee and Beer Garden Meet and Greet could be perfect for you. And keep in mind that smaller group settings can be less intimidating and easier to start conversations in.
Another thing that might worry you is introductions. Some people aren’t as keen on introducing themselves and others worry or get nervous about it. Why not level the playing field and go to an event where everyone is expected to introduce themselves and talk? It could be a networking event, an acting class, a singles event, or a book club. Not only are people looking to introduce themselves at these events but they’re also there to make friends.
Our final tip is on the age of the people you are going to meet. If you have your heart set on meeting people close to your own age, then research events so that you can find your chosen demographic. At the same time, we want to encourage you not to limit yourself. An age gap doesn’t necessarily mean a disconnect and the great thing about different age groups is that they can learn from each other!
You can find even more events in Grand Rapids on Experiencegr.com, Michigan.org, or Visitgrandrapids.com.
RELATED: How To Meet People in Grand Rapids, Michigan
2025 West Michigan Food and Beverage Awards
◦ When: Monday, Jan 20th
◦ Where: JW Marriott Grand Rapids, Louis Street Northwest, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
Get ready for a mouthwatering night at the West Michigan Food & Beverage Awards, where the best local flavors will be celebrated in person!
Sacred Alaska Grand Rapids Premiere
◦ When: Monday, Jan 20th
◦ Where: Celebration Cinema Studio Park
Join us for a screening of the award-winning documentary film Sacred Alaska, presented by the director Simon Scionka, with filmmaker Q&A.
Friction Liftoff 2025
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 25th
◦ Where: Friction Grand Rapids
Find your Supertotal!
CBMC Business Impact Luncheon
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 21st
◦ Where: Watermark Country Club
Join us for lunch to hear from guest speaker, Todd Ponstein
2025 Economic Forecast Luncheon – CREW, BOMA, IFMA, and CoreNet
◦ When: Thursday, Jan 23rd
◦ Where: L.V. Eberhard Center (EC)
Join us for lunch and a presentation by Dr. Paul Isely, Dean & Professor of Economics @ GVSU
Perfect Pairing ‘Ginuary’
◦ When: Thursday, Jan 23rd
◦ Where: Rendezvous
Sip on four gin cocktails paired with the perfect complementing bites in the relaxed, yet refined, atmosphere of Rendezvous.
Demonic Masquerade: A Benefit Show for X-Alted Divine
◦ When: Friday, Jan 24th
◦ Where: The DAAC
Join us for a night of dark and mysterious fun at the Demonic Masquerade benefit show for X-Alted Divine!
Winter Wonderland: Heart Cake Decorating Class
◦ When: Thursday, Jan 23rd
◦ Where: Alma Mia
Create sweet memories with a fun, hands-on cake decorating experience.
Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ Catering Open House
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 25th
◦ Where: Hyatt Place Grand Rapids-South
Come on down to our Sweet Racks & Smokin’ Butts BBQ Catering Open House for a taste of delicious BBQ and a fun time!
R&BINGO VARSITY BALL 2
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 25th
◦ Where: 5438 Division Ave S
Join us for a fun night out playing R&Bingo in your exclusive Varsity Jacket! Let’s Sip,Sing and dance the night away winning cash prizes
Mo Alexander Headlines The Wealthy Theatre
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 25th
◦ Where: Wealthy Theatre
The very funny Mo Alexander will provide big laughs with his amazing comedy styling. He is definitely a pro you do not want to miss.
Grand Rapids Speed Dating for Singles Ages Over 50 ♥ Rockford Michigan
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 21st
◦ Where: St. Julian Winery & Distillery Tasting Room
Meet up to 12 potential matches. Join the thousands of people that have found LOVE at our events. Will you be our next success story?
CAL 2025 FUNDRAISER at WILDWOOD featuring OMB
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 25th
◦ Where: Wildwood Family Farms
Get ready to party at the CAL 2025 fundraiser at Wildwood – it’s going to be a wild time for a great cause!
Agile For Executives 1 Day Training in Grand Rapids, MI
◦ When: Friday, Jan 24th
◦ Where: For venue details reach us at [email protected]
Our classroom and corporate training provides you the opportunity to interact with instructors and benefit from face-to-face instruction.
Motivating People 1 Day Training in Grand Rapids, MI
◦ When: Friday, Jan 24th
◦ Where: For venue details reach us at [email protected]
Our classroom training provides you the opportunity to interact with instructors and benefit from face-to-face instruction.
Building High Performing Teams1 Day Training in Grand Rapids, MI
◦ When: Friday, Jan 24th
◦ Where: For venue details reach us at [email protected]
Our classroom training provides you the opportunity to interact with instructors and benefit from face-to-face instruction.
Agile & Scrum 1 Day Training in Grand Rapids, MI
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 22nd
◦ Where: For venue details reach us at [email protected], PH: +1 469 666 9332
Offers: Group of 5 – 10 people 10% Discount, Group of 11 – 20 people 15% Discount
East Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt For Couples – SHOW LOVE (Date Night!!)
◦ When: Thursday, Jan 23rd
CITY LOVE SCAVENGER HUNT Date For Couples (Self-Guided) Enjoy your city scavenger hunt with fun digital activities along the way!
Business Etiquette 1 Day Training in Grand Rapids, MI
◦ When: Friday, Jan 24th
◦ Where: For venue details reach us at [email protected]
“Mastering Business Etiquette: Key Feature for Success in Professional Interactions”