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
SoftwareGR Speaker Series: Twisthink on Design & Development Collaboration
◦ When: Tuesday, Jul 23rd
◦ Where: Twisthink
SoftwareGR presents our July Speaker Series event!
Sometimes, design and development work happen in silos due to organizational reporting structures, team preferences, or timing of the work. Many of us believe our teams achieve better results when designers and developers approach their work collaboratively.
Please join SoftwareGR on Tuesday, July 23 for a panel discussion at Twisthink on design(…)
GR Roll: July 26 community ride
◦ When: Friday, Jul 26th
◦ Where: Riverside Park
**Friday, 7/26 6pm at North Trailhead at Riverside Park *(across from Veterans home).***
This summer, the GR Roll will be changing its schedule and format in two ways.
1\. We will begin each monthly ride at 6pm from the north trailhead at Riverside Park \(@ the north end of Riverside park boat launch\, across from Veterans home\) and bicycle along the trail along the White Pine Trail for 30 minu(…)
Adoptee MeetUp at Outside Coffee Co.
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: outside coffee co
Come start your day with a cup of coffee and adoptee community! We are meeting at Outside Coffee Co. at 10 am on Wednesday, July 24th. There is outdoor seating which is dog friendly. Come join in and get to know your fellow local GR adoptees.
Link to website: https://outsidecoffeeco.com/
This event is located at:
734 WEALTHY STREET SE GRAND RAPIDS, MI, 49503
*\*All donations go to [Adoptee Advo(…)
Sushi Go Party
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ 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!(…)
BioC 2024 | R-Ladies+ meet & greet
◦ When: Thursday, Jul 25th
◦ Where: Van Andel Institute
Hi,
We invite all bioinformatics + computational biologists who self-identify as R-Ladies+ (women and gender minorities) to join us at this mini-meetup at Grand Rapids!
Virtual registration for BioC is still open: https://www.bioc2024.bioconductor.org/registration
Schedule:
https://www.bioc2024.bioconductor.org/schedule(…)
Italian American Heritage Night at the Whitecaps
◦ When: Thursday, Jul 25th
◦ Where: LMCU Ballpark
Well, will ya’ look at this — PLAY BALL
Buy your tickets here: [https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Whitecapsitalian2](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffevo-enterprise.com%2Fevent%2FWhitecapsitalian2%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3ZD-BV-6xyMKp04rGabD21Ngji77Xdf_dq5YknAuZ_S-s8h8m9OM8-JYY_aem_Aa71KTYxhWmhvt8MgrDMySsQwJwny9H6dH71KHssVsz6TLCZjrYeICvyiVstU4ylPoz24Gq247wXtmdvN1XHGEao&h=AT0e(…)
Networking & Mastermind
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Harbor Life Church
Join us:
-to see what our group is about
-learn how to grow your business
-get insight on how to solve problems
-have your questions answered
-promote yourself
-get referrals
-give referrals
-make new connections
-mastermind
Childcare & coffee always provided! Guests are always welcome.(…)
Real-world experience moving from a monolith to microservices using AWS
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Davenport University
Join us for a presentation from Adam Broadbent, CTO of MadeLabs, on his experience transforming from a monolithic architecture to microservices using AWS. Our speaker will share their real-world experiences, discussing benefits such as improved scalability, flexibility, and faster deployments, as well as challenges like increased complexity, cold starts, and data management. Learn about the AWS se(…)
Pickleball and Beer
◦ When: Saturday, Jul 27th
◦ Where: Belknap Park
Come join me for Pickleball!
All experience levels welcome. I have a few extra paddles you can borrow if you need.
We will play for a couple hours then go get beer afterwards at City Built Brewing Co.(…)
Riverside Chakra Balancing (Donation Based)
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Riverside Park
Jul will be performing reiki and providing sound healing. I will be instructing a relaxing yoga session. Both will cleanse and balance your chakras, the energy centers in your body.
.
.
.
Location:
Riverside Park, Grand Rapids
\*Go to the second entrance/roundabout coming from downtown Grand Rapids. Park in that parking lot. There will be a sign that says “Park Yoga”.\*
This class is free, but (…)
Lammas/Lughnasadh Celebration ~ Creating a Recipe Grimoire
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Moon Guidance Embodiment
Lammas is a time of reflection, celebration, and thanksgiving. As the wheel turns and summer transitions into autumn, we honor the fertility of the land and the interconnectedness of all life. Embracing the spirit of Lammas, we can learn to appreciate the cyclical nature of existence and find harmony with the changing seasons. It is now high summer and the union of Sun and Earth, God and Goddess, (…)
Sci-Fi Book Club (Grand Rapids)
◦ When: Friday, Jul 26th
◦ Where: Wealthy Street Bakery
Science Fiction has long been a genre which has explored Humanist values. Join us as we read and discuss everything from classic sci-fi to newly published works. This month’s book is *A Fire Upon the Deep* by Vernor Vinge.
This event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated, but not expected.
You will find the group at a table with Michigan Humanist table signs.
Sci-fi Book club (Gr(…)
🧑🎨 Meet and Greet / Coloring and Activities for Shy People
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Schuler’s Books and Music
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 Schuler Books Cafe
[West MI Social Club](https://www.facebook.com/groups/5036469482338(…)
9 holes before 9am
◦ When: Friday, Jul 26th
◦ Where: Maple Hill Golf Course
Start your Friday off with 9 holes before 9am. We’ll be playing Maple Hill, a short and lovely walkable public course. All experience levels are welcome.
Tee time is at 7:30am, we’ll meet in the clubhouse at 7:20am. If it’s raining or if it’s below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, we’ll cancel. Please be sure to RSVP by 6:30pm the night before so that we can manage our tee times.
Attendees are responsible(…)
North End Walking Enthusiasts: Urban Hike and Social Gathering
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: undefined
Enjoy a sense of belonging. Join the North End Walking Enthusiasts for a community hike on the North Quarter Pathways. This event is perfect for those looking to get some exercise, make new friends, and immerse themselves in a wonderful neighborhood. Bonus: get a $5 gift card to local businesses each time you walk through May. Whether you’re a hardy hiker or simply enjoy leisurely strolls, this wa(…)
The Big Sit: Writing Group Work Meet Up
◦ When: Monday, Jul 22nd
◦ Where: Midnight Express Cafe
We sit
and write our stories to hold each other accountable to getting work done, offer advice and feedback, and support one another in our hero’s journey to becoming an author(…)
Old School Dungeon Crawl!
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Cristopher’s House
The We Hate Bards Classic is Back!
After a long hiatus the Old School Dungeon Crawl is ready to dungeon delve again. We’ll be playing Basic Fantasy tabletop RPG, think of it as a more streamlined and more playable version of your classic Advanced Dungeons and Dragons. Each session your group of heroes will venture out into the untamed wilderness to make names for themselves, get rich, and become (…)
River walk GR downtown
◦ When: Tuesday, Jul 23rd
◦ Where: 1120 Monroe Ave NW
Meet at “Free Parking” 1120 Monroe Ave. Walk along the river (both sides) By Ford Museum & fish ladder down to the Blue Bridge About 2.5 miles. Usually follow up with dinner &/or drinks(…)
After Work Hike – Cascade Peace Park
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Cascade Peace Park
This is a 3 -5 mile hike through woods with hills. This is done along with the Grand Rapids Hiking and Adventure Meetup group and the West Michigan Ski Club. Those who choose may meet in Ada afterwards to eat/drink/socialize.(…)
Weekly Networking
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ 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(…)
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
Water Warriors: Exploring the Great Lakes Watershed | Grades K-1
◦ When: Monday, Jul 22nd
◦ Where: Van Andel Institute for Education
1-day Camp For Students Entering Grades K-1 in Fall 2024
Wizards and Witches of GR: Exploring the Science Behind Magic | Grades 3-5
◦ When: Monday, Jul 22nd
◦ Where: Van Andel Institute for Education
4-day Camp For Students Entering Grades 3-5 in Fall 2024
Pink Goldfish: Amplify Differentiation To Stand Out In The Marketplace
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Doug Meijer Medical Innovation Building
Transform your approach to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Explore innovative ideas for success and actionable strategies for results.
Progressive Tastings Ada: The Americana
◦ When: Thursday, Jul 25th
◦ Where: Ada, MI, USA
Get ready for a fabulous tasting experience in Ada, where delicious food, great company, and good vibes are all on the menu!
Water Warriors: Great Lakes Watershed Engineers | Grades 2-3
◦ When: Wednesday, Jul 24th
◦ Where: Van Andel Institute for Education
1-day Camp For Students Entering Grades 2-3 in Fall 2024
Salon Floor Open for Practice – Supervising Instructor
◦ When: Saturday, Jul 27th
◦ Where: Mosley School Of Cosmetology
Salon Floor Open for Practice – Supervising Instructor
Watercolors 7 Main Event
◦ When: Saturday, Jul 27th
◦ Where: Grand Rapids Public Museum
Watercolors is a three-day, weekend experience that brings black culture, music, business, dance, culinary, and art together for in unity.
Thursday, July 25- 10:00 am at Blythefield Country Club
◦ When: Thursday, Jul 25th
◦ Where: Blythefield Country Club
West Michigan Deal Makers Golf Tour – Thursday, July 25- 10:00 am at Blythefield Country Club Cost per player $100
NEF GOLF OUTING 2024
◦ When: Thursday, Jul 25th
◦ Where: Boulder Creek Golf Club
The Northview Education Foundation (NEF) will be hosting their 32nd Annual Golf Outing, Thursday, July 25, 2024 at Boulder Creek Golf Club.
Dinkin at Dusk- Rooftop Pickleball Tournament & Silent Auction
◦ When: Friday, Jul 26th
◦ Where: RoofTop Pickleball
Come join us for a fun evening of pickleball on the rooftop, where we’ll be dinking at dusk to raise money for the Tip Jar Foundation!
Advance Facial Practical on Salon Floor
◦ When: Thursday, Jul 25th
◦ Where: Mosley School Of Cosmetology
Advance Facial Practical on Salon Floor
Jarred K Coleman Foundation Summer Clinic
◦ When: Tuesday, Jul 23rd
◦ Where: East Rockford Middle School
Join our 3-day camp for positional training, competitive drills, and specialized sessions taught by the best players in the GR area!
Seussical Jr. – Presented by Over The Top Academy of Dance
◦ When: Friday, Jul 26th
◦ Where: East Grand Rapids Performing Arts Center
Over The Top Academy of Dance Presents SEUSSICAL JR. at EGR Performing Arts Center || July 26-July 27
CREW West Michigan – Site Tour of Victory on Leonard
◦ When: Thursday, Jul 25th
◦ Where: Victory on Leonard
Join us for a site tour and Learn about the development of Victory on Leonard from developer, Jack Hoedeman.
Watercolors 7 Golf Outing
◦ When: Friday, Jul 26th
◦ Where: Indian Trails Golf Course
Join us for a fun day of golfing and painting at the Watercolors 7 Golf Outing – it’s going to be a blast!
Find Your Voice: Creating a Powerful Signature Story
◦ When: Friday, Jul 26th
◦ Where: Harmonic Wellness Centre
Get ready to uncover your unique story and learn how to share it confidently at our event, Find Your Voice: Creating a Powerful Signature St
Gunru vs Everybody III
◦ When: Saturday, Jul 27th
◦ Where: ArtRat Gallery
A night of music, networking and community celebration!
Sculpture Nail Workshop
◦ When: Thursday, Jul 25th
◦ Where: Mosley School Of Cosmetology
Sculpture Nail Workshop
Salsa Night: Presented by Dwelling Place
◦ When: Friday, Jul 26th
◦ Where: 72 Sheldon Blvd SE
An Eviction Prevention Fundraiser
R&Bingo “Celebrity T-shirt” Night Out!
◦ When: Saturday, Jul 27th
◦ Where: 5438 Division Ave S
Come Join Us In Your Favorite R&B Celebrity T-Shirt For A Fun Night Out Of Vibing And Playing R&Bingo While Winning Cash Prizes And raffles!