When is the festival?

The 2026 festival is happening on Saturday, August 22 and Sunday, August, 23, 2026.

Where is the festival?

The festival will be located in the River North Neighborhood of Downtown Grand Rapids. The festival spans 555 Monroe, Sixth Street Park and the Sixth Street Bridge, all connected and within walking distance. You can enter from multiple points along the route.

How much does it cost?

This event is completely free and no tickets are required! The only cost is if you choose to purchase food from vendors or shop with businesses on the bridge.

Is there ADA parking?

Yes! ADA-accessible parking is available for free during the festival. You can find the ADA parking right across from SpeakEZ Lounge. A valid permit is required to park in this lot.

What about parking & transportation?

• Bike: Bike racks will be available; ride right up. • Walk or Skate: Enjoy the riverfront on foot or wheels. • ADA Accessible Parking: Lot directly across from SpeakEZ Lounge (permit required). • Street Parking: All meters are free on weekends, except those on Monroe Center. • Drive & Park: Nearby public lots: Learn more at https://bit.ly/4u6jioZ

Where can I find a schedule?

The 2026 Schedule will be released as we get closer to the festival.

Is the festival accessible?

Yes, please follow the accessible wayfinding signs throughout the festival.

Will there be food & drink available?

There will be 20+ food vendors on-site serving a variety of options. A refillable water station will also be available at Sixth Street Park. And while there won’t be beer tents at the event, you can grab a drink from nearby bars: https://refreshments.downtowngr.org/category/north/

Where can I buy alcohol drinks?

You won’t find alcohol vendors inside the festival itself, but several nearby bars are offering to-go drinks you can enjoy within the festival footprint. View the full map of participating businesses: https://bit.ly/3g7hMCc

What items are not allowed at the festival?

For everyone’s safety and to keep the experience enjoyable, the following items are not permitted: • Drones or any remote flying devices • Laser pointers • Glass containers of any kind • Outside alcohol (unless purchased from a designated refreshment zone bar) • Illegal or illicit substances • Unauthorized or unlicensed vending • Solicitation or promotional materials (flyers, stickers, giveaways, samples, etc.) • Weapons or explosives of any kind • Fireworks • Large tents or structures Please plan ahead and leave these items at home.

Bring what you need to stay comfortable, camping chairs, refillable water bottles, and sunscreen are all great to have on hand. Please note: free bottled water will not be provided this year, so plan ahead.

Is the event family-friendly?

Yes—this festival is family-friendly, with plenty to explore for all ages. The Sixth Street Park stage features live bands both days, along with activities that are great for kids and families. Keep in mind the 555 Stage is geared more toward adults, with DJs and performances that may include mature themes.

Dogs are welcome, but please use your best judgment. If your dog is reactive around crowds, other dogs, or unfamiliar people, it’s best to leave them at home.

Where is the Lost & Found?

During festival hours, stop by the Info Tent at Sixth Street Park. Need help after the festival? Call us at (616) 719-4610 or email info@downtowngr.org during business hours.

Where can I get help/info during the festival?

Visit any info tent at 555 Monroe or Sixth Street Park, or look for staff and volunteers in marked shirts. For extra assistance, call an Ambassador on duty at (616) 250-8263.

Return to the River Festival

Save the date! Free 2-Day Festival in Downtown GR! Aug 22 & 23, 2026

Festival Info

Extra's

Grab-and-go drinks

Free DASH Shuttle

Downtown Ambassadors

About this account

returntoriver

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JoinedJune 2025

Return to the River Festival has been a member of Linktree for 1 year and joined in June 2025. The social media accounts linked to from Return to the River Festival are: Instagram, Email, Phone. Besides social media accounts, returntoriver has populated their site with Facebook Event Page, Grab-and-go drinks, Return to the River Map, Volunteer at Return to the River, Free DASH Shuttle, Merchants and Makers: Vendor Sign-Up, Downtown Ambassadors.