World of Winter is officially back for its seventh year, kicking off Friday, January 9, and once again turning January and February into something people actually want to go downtown for. If you’ve ever wandered around thinking winter is when the city goes a little quiet, this festival exists just to prove you wrong.
If you’ve never made your way to this magical light filled festival, you’ll find massive art installations that will pop up across some of downtown’s most recognizable landmarks, paired with family friendly events. January and February are historically slow months for downtown businesses, so World of Winter gives people a reason to bundle up, grab dinner, and actually stick around.
And it works. A Grand Valley State University study found last year’s festival generated an estimated $38 million in economic impact and supported 335 jobs. Not bad for something that encourages you to put on boots and wander around outside.
Fan favorite events are returning, including the always-packed silent disco. You also won’t want to miss Noodle Fest, where local vendors put their own spin on noodles and let the public vote for the best one. Most of the festival is completely free, with the only costs coming from food trucks or team fees if you’re brave enough to enter the Human Hungry Hippo Tournament.
Grand Rapids is so lucky to have this festival. Between how long it runs and how many installations fill the city, World of Winter remains the largest winter festival in the country…