Green Gala celebrates future of Grand Rapids Parks

Friends of Grand Rapids Parks invites you to be part of the greenest bash of the season, and this year they are going neon green! Green Gala is a one-of-a-kind fundraiser advancing the work of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks to protect, enhance, and expand our city's parks, public spaces, and urban forest. The organization’s annual Green Gala will be a celebration of the past 10 years and sharing what is to come for Friends of Grand Rapids Parks.

The organization was founded in 2008, when the recession took a toll on our City Parks and Recreation budget, leaving parks in disrepair. Friends of Grand Rapids Parks stepped up to fill the gap and to help tackle key park issues throughout the city. Today, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks comes alongside the City Parks and Recreation Department to organize volunteer projects, activate public spaces, plant trees, and engage with the community about future park projects.

Now in its eighth year, the popular event will include all of the components guests love about the Green Gala, including locally sourced beverages, a delicious strolling dinner offered by local food trucks, a photo-booth, and entertainment with laser lights from DJ AJ Paschka. "This year's futuristic theme encourages guests to bring out their best neon attire," said Marissa Visser, Event Coordinator of Friends of GR Parks, "join other community minded individuals to help us celebrate the past and look to the future of parks, trees, and green spaces within our Grand Rapids community."

Tickets for the event are $100 and come with one free drink ticket, a strolling dinner, desserts, and entertainment. To purchase tickets, register a sponsorship, and for more information, visit www.green-gala.com or call 616-288-7209.