The year's big events
See what we’re doing in Grand Rapids’ Urban Forest.
Each project combines our love of trees with community outreach, volunteering, and learning opportunities. Join our efforts to expand, enhance, and protect Grand Rapids’ urban forest. See the Urban Forest Project photos from past events.
Brewers Grove Byline: Annual Tree Beers crafted by local breweries
$1 of each tree beer print goes towards tree plantings throughout Grand Rapids
The Brewers Grove project started in 2013 when local brewers asked Friends of GR Parks (FGRP) how they could celebrate being named Beer City USA by giving back to our parks, public spaces, and trees. And thus the idea was seeded to create tree-themed beers that would be offered for a limited time with proceeds going directly to FGRP's Urban Forest Project for tree plantings. Each year, the UFP additionally hosts a Brewers Grove Planting and a Party in the Park where the participating breweries and volunteers plant trees, drink local delicious beer and enjoy live music.
Arbor Day
Celebrate the benefits of trees on the national tree planting holiday
Every April, the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks and City of Grand Rapids team with the Michigan Arbor Day Alliance and Arbor Day Foundation to plan activities celebrating trees on Arbor Day.
Mayor’s Tree of the Year
An annual ceremony honoring one lucky tree
Each year on Arbor Day, the Mayor of Grand Rapids, the City's Urban Forestry Committee, and the Grand Rapids Urban Forest Project honor a mature local tree for its years of service and continuing contributions to the health and well being of our community. During an official tree-hugging ceremony, the Mayor announces the Tree of the Year, highlighting its rich history and the return on investment it has provided.
NeighborWoods™
Joining communities across the country in growing the urban forest
As part of National NeighborWoods™ Month each October, the Grand Rapids Urban Forest Project partners with local organizations to draw attention to the value of trees in our community. Local NeighborWoods™ activities include tree plantings, tree tours, tree inventory parties, pruning, and tree care projects and more.
