Lisha B’s Must-See Spaces & Events at World of Winter

Last year was my first World Of Winter experience. I did not know what to expect, but once I walked around the city and saw the different exhibitions, I was speechless.

Besides the actual installations, World of Winter made me fall in love with the city. I helped me get acclimated since all of the art pieces are throughout the city and some are inspired by Grand Rapids. Managed by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., World of Winter is a massive winter festival with 30 art installations, 81 ice sculptures, 35 window installations, and 43 low-cost or free events.

I wanted to share some of the things I'm super-excited to see this year:

1) Silent Disco. Grab some wireless headphones, tune into one of the DJ channels, and dance the night away at this family-friendly event, complete with fire and LED shows, an interactive Lite Brite experience, food trucks, and cozy fire pits. (7-10 p.m. Jan. 27, Calder Plaza).

2) Winter is a DRAG show. The Michigan Drag Brunch Queens with a special mystery guest, will dominate the runway, while proceeds from drink purchases will benefit AYA Youth Collective. The event is free, but tipping the Queens is appreciated. (11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 3, Calder Plaza).

3) Human Hungry Hippo Tournament. The famous board game is coming alive via teams of six competing in two divisions — the family division and the adult division — for some amazing prizes. There is a cost to participate, and online registration is required. (12:30-7 p.m. Feb. 25, Rosa Parks Circle.)

4) Ice Piano Performances. Enjoy a live piano performance on this unique instrument — right next to the Squiggle Tree. (6:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 19 and Jan. 20, both in Canal Park).

5) Soundbath. Find a comfortable spot and prepare to relax as the soothing sounds flush the stress and tension from your body. (6:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 26 and 1-2 p.m. March 3, both in Calder Plaza).

On top of that, they'll offer multiple art installation walking tours, ice sculpture tours, and Black history walking tours. Check the calendar of events for more details on the tours and other events that run through March 10, and click here to learn more about the art installations. World Of Winter is so much more than you can imagine!