Overview

• ArtPrize 2025 opens Thursday, Sept. 18, with artists installing works across Grand Rapids and downtown operators preparing for larger crowds.
• Merchants and Makers will stage a Maker’s Market at Rosa Parks Circle on Sept. 20, Sept. 27 and Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., featuring roughly 100 to 120 local artists, live music and food trucks.
• Restaurants are increasing staffing to protect service quality during the rush, with Rapid River Stillhouse adding Monday hours to meet venue rules and steady football traffic.
• GVSU researchers reported close to 800,000 visitors in 2024 and about $71 million in economic activity tied to the event.
• Roughly 475,000 visitors last year came primarily for ArtPrize, and GVSU’s Christian Glupkar noted nonlocal attendees spent about $67 per visit versus about $27 for locals.