Story by Haley Brink, Staff Writer 
Photo courtesy of WOODTV.com

There is plenty to do in Grand Rapids this holiday season, so don’t let yourself waste away without getting a taste of Grand Rapids finest. There are ugly Christmas sweater parties to go to, art galleries to explore, giant swing dancing parties to attend, and carolling expeditions to be joined.

The first holiday season event to look into this month is the Ugly Christmas Sweater 40 Tap Takeover. If you sport a really ugly sweater, you could win a $50 gift card. This event is 21+ at The Score and takes place from December 4 through January 4. They have tons of limited release brews. If you’re up for some beer tasting, definitely check this event out.

For those who would rather linger on some beautiful artwork, there is the LowellArts! gallery, a holiday shopping destination. There will be more than 40 artists’ work available like pottery, paintings, photography, jewelry, textiles, glasswork, handbags, mittens, woodwork, metalwork, wreaths, basketry, ornaments, gourds, candles, and soaps. This gallery is open from December 15 through December 19 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and it’s FREE.

Do you have a passion for dancing? Or just like to trying new thing? Then this next event is for you. There is a giant swing and ballroom dance on December 29 from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Devos Place. This event costs $10, and is well worth it. There is live music, hundreds of dancers, and plenty of space for you and your friends to pull out some dance moves.

Who doesn’t love Christmas music? If you are one of many who can’t get enough of the jolly tunes, join local choirs on December 18 from 6-7 p.m. outside of the DeVos Place and Performance Hall (on the bank of the Grand River) and do some carolling. This event is sponsored by San Chez Bistro and is free. Spread some Christmas cheer!

If you’re looking for something to do on New Year’s Eve, nearly every bar in the city will be throwing a party in the name of the new year. There is also the annual New Year’s Eve concert downtown if you’re looking for a big crowd and great music. There is so much to do on the 31st, so don’t let yourself stay home watching Netflix, so get out and have some holiday fun.   

About the Writer…

Haley Brink is a Sustainable Business major with minors in communications and writing. She is passionate about the environment and how she can make an impact on the way people treat the world they live in. She someday hopes to learn to photosynthesize. She also enjoys attempting to recreate foods she finds on Pinterest.