Events
grown-up events
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State of Play Breakfast
Thursday, September 25, 2025, 8am
Grand Rapids Children's Museum
Join the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum as we continue our mission of building minds through play at our 7th Annual State of Play breakfast fundraiser. This open house fundraiser will take place inside and outside of the museum, allowing guests to experience guided tours of our current exhibits. Guests will enjoy outdoor seating with curated food and beverage options.
Proceeds from the GRCM State of Play Fundraiser will provide vital funding for our efforts to bring play to all children in our community through open-ended programs and exhibits, outreach initiatives, and community partnerships. Who will be the winner of our annual Roshambo (aka Rock, Paper, Scissors) tournament?
Keynote Speaker: Sonia Manzano
“Maria” on Sesame Street & Best-Selling Author
We are thrilled to welcome beloved children’s television icon and best-selling author Sonia Manzano. Creator of Alma’s Way for PBS KIDs, Sonia continues to inspire through award-winning storytelling that champions youth, culture, and imagination.
A Child’s Mind: Reception and Panel Discussion
September 9, 2025, 5:30 - 8:00 pm
Grand Rapids Children's Museum
Join us at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum on September 9, from 5:30 until 8:00 p.m. We’ll tour the Weathering Emotions Exhibit, and then hear a panel of curators, designers, and fabricators talk about how a collaborative approach gave them entry into a child’s mind. Social time with fellow designers and communicators will follow.
Tickets required to attend. This event is intended for grown-ups.
general events
Third Thursdays
Monthly, 4-8pm
Grand Rapids Children's Museum
Join us for 3rd Thursdays at GRCM!
Save the date for these upcoming playtimes!
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September 18
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October 16
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November 20
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December 18
While you're downtown, check out some of the other businesses in the Hotel District participating in 3rd Thursdays!
ArtPrize Artist Workshop: Make a Trashy Textile Hanging Mobile
Saturday, September 20, 1–4pm
Grand Rapids Children's Museum
Tap into your creative side with Nowhere Collective leading a hands-on make-and-take workshop. Katy Osborn will guide this transformation of reclaimed textiles and other used materials into decorative hanging mobiles. You'll create a truly junky jam that you'll be proud to display because it's good for the planet and people. All materials will be provided, but feel free to bring items to accessorize and personalize your mobile. This activity is great for all ages, young and old. Kids under 8 years old will need adult guidance.
If you want a quick hit of craftiness, you can write a message/wish/blessing on a strip of reclaimed textile and weave it outside on LOOM360 where we'll co-created trashy tapestries.
member events
Member Morning
Monday, October 13, 9am-12pm
Grand Rapids Children's Museum
GRCM Members, join us for our Boo Bash Playtime!
Create a craft, explore spooky sensory bins, decorate a treat bag, and trick-or-treat throughout the museum!
Save the date for upcoming members-only playtimes:
⭐ Monday, October 13 ➡️ Boo Bash
⭐ Monday, November 10 ➡️ Member Playtime
⭐ Monday, December 8 ➡️ Winter Wonderland