Live Center Stage: Your Guide to Grand Rapids' Hottest Summer Events

Summer in Grand Rapids is electrifying. With a calendar overflowing with world-class concerts, outdoor festivals, and local celebrations, there is no better time to be in the heart of the city. When you live in the Arena District, you don't just see the action—you’re a part of it.

If you are looking to make the most of the rest of the season, here is what’s happening in and around Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids Festival Lineup

The city is coming alive with music and culture this summer. Mark your calendars for these major events:

• Upheaval Festival (July 17–18) Where: Belknap Park (30 Coldbrook St NE) A heavy-hitting, two-day rock and metal festival featuring top national touring acts, local craft beer, food vendors, and multiple stages.

• Breakaway Music Festival (August 14–15) Where: Belknap Park (30 Coldbrook St NE) Experience one of Michigan's premier EDM events with nationally renowned DJs, immersive art installations, and high-energy performances.

• Taco Fest Grand Rapids (August 28–30) Where: Riverside Park (2001 Monroe Ave NE) Celebrate the end of August with a weekend of tacos, margaritas, live music, and a vibrant beer garden. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer weekend with family and friends.

Unmissable Concerts

From outdoor amphitheater experiences to arena shows, downtown Grand Rapids is the place to be for live entertainment.

Live at the New Acrisure Amphitheater

• July 22: The Black Crows with Whiskey Myers

• July 29: 5 Seconds of Summer

• July 30: Chicago & Styx

• July 31: The Coral Reefer Band

• August 8: Jerry Seinfeld (Comedy)

• August 11: Goo Goo Dolls

• August 15: Five Finger Death Punch

• August 22: Thomas Rhett with Emily Ann Roberts and Conner Smith

• August 29: Tim McGraw with 49 Winchester

• September 10: Pitbull

More Regional Hits

• Van Andel Arena: Catch the Zac Brown Band on July 17th—just steps from your door.

• Unity Christian Music Festival (Muskegon): August 5–8.

• Rock The Country (Hastings): August 8–9.

• Burning Foot Beer Festival (Muskegon): August 29.

Experience Life at Venue Tower

There is a major advantage to living in the Arena District: you can leave your car in the garage and walk to every one of these shows.

At Venue Tower, located at 15 Ottawa Ave NW, you are positioned right in the center of the excitement. Our pet-friendly studio, one-, and two-bedroom residences are designed for those who love the energy of downtown. Wake up to panoramic city views through floor-to-ceiling windows and enjoy the industrial-chic feel of our exposed concrete ceilings.

When you aren’t out catching a concert, you can recharge in our resident lounge, hang out on our open-air terrace with a fireplace, or stay active in our fitness studio.

Ready to make your move? Experience downtown living that puts you center stage. Visit venuetowergr.com to check our latest availability and book a tour today.