Lovers of apples and cider, rejoice! Cider Week GR is returning to the heart of Michigan’s apple capital from May 8-16 with nine days of tastings, tap takeovers, and a 20-year milestone celebration.
Hosted by Experience Grand Rapids in partnership with the Michigan Cider Association, the nine-day event celebrates the region’s thriving cider scene with tap takeovers, tastings, and the world’s largest cider competition. It all builds up to Michigan Cider Fest, a public celebration at Rosa Parks Circle featuring Michigan-made ciders, local food, and live music.
Photo courtesy of Aly Zuiderveen for Experience GR.
This year’s event also marks the 20th anniversary of GLINTCAP (Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition), the largest cider competition in the world—welcoming top cider makers from across the globe to Grand Rapids.
“Cider Week GR is really a celebration of West Michigan’s deep apple roots, and the talented makers who turn that fruit into something special,” said Kate Lieto, VP of Marketing, Experience Grand Rapids. “From classic dry ciders to creative seasonal blends, it’s a chance to experience the full range of what’s being crafted right here in the heart of Michigan’s apple country.
“Over nine days, the entire community gets involved, with tastings, tap takeovers, and events that make it easy and fun to explore. It’s also a reflection of Grand Rapids’ broader craft beverage scene, bringing together local agriculture, hospitality, and creativity in a way that feels distinctly West Michigan.”
Photo courtesy of Nick Irwin for Experience GR.
Cider Week GR highlights include:
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GLINTCAP (20th Anniversary): The Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition celebrates two decades as the world’s largest cider competition, featuring entries from both local and international producers.
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Michigan Cider Fest: A ticketed celebration at Rosa Parks Circle on Saturday, May 16, featuring dozens of Michigan ciders, local foods, live music and games.
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Flights of Flavor: Sign up for the free Flights of Flavor pass to earn points toward exclusive merchandise with every flight you order. This year-round program offers a fun and interactive way to explore Grand Rapids’ cider scene, during Cider Week and beyond.
According to Lieto, what makes Cider Week GR stand out is the unique blend of “industry insider” and community experience, designed for locals and visitors alike.
Photo courtesy of Nick Irwin for Experience GR.
“The week wraps up with Michigan Cider Fest at Rosa Parks Circle, featuring Michigan-made ciders, local food, and live music in the heart of downtown,” Lieto said. “There’s also a fun, easy way to get involved through Flights of Flavor, an interactive experience where participants can sample cider flights at participating locations and earn points toward exclusive merchandise, both during Cider Week and even beyond.”
Learn more by visiting Cider Week GR.
Courtesy of West Michigan Woman.
Main photo courtesy of Ideology for Experience GR.
