ArtPrize 2026

ArtPrize is an international art competition and cultural festival held every year in downtown Grand Rapids. It’s the world’s most attended public art event, with upwards of 800,000 people visiting during the 18-day period. ArtPrize 2026 is the 16th year of the event. 

What to expect at ArtPrize 2026?

Expect to be dazzled. Hundreds of artists from around the world enter the competition, and you’ll see their paintings, sculptures, installations and more as you wander the streets, parks, galleries, restaurants, breweries and businesses of downtown Grand Rapids. Use your smartphone to vote for your favorites to win the $100,000 public grand prize plus $60,000 in additional prizes. A separate juried competition awards its own prizes, and it’s fun to see where the public and art experts agree (or don’t.) In all, ArtPrize awards more than $400,000 to artists in prizes and grants.

Where is ArtPrize held?

All over the four square miles of downtown Grand Rapids, which is separated into five districts for the event: Center City, Northside, Southside, Eastside, and Westside. You can visit a series of venues in each district while stopping along the way to recharge at parks and restaurants. Printed maps and Event Guides will be available throughout the city.

ArtPrize is meant to be enjoyed on foot over multiple days – but you can also take a free DASH bus around downtown. 

What does it cost to attend ArtPrize?

You can see all ArtPrize entries for free, regardless of where they’re located.

How do I get to ArtPrize? 

Downtown Grand Rapids is located at the intersection of the I-196 and US-131 expressways, and it’s easily accessible from every direction by car. You can also fly in to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, named the Easiest Airport Journey in North America, which is just 20 minutes from downtown. Grand Rapids is also served by Amtrak and Greyhound Bus. Click here for details and maps. 

Where do I park for ArtPrize?

There are many parking lots and ramps in downtown Grand Rapids. Plan your visit using this interactive map of parking lots and ramps. (Click here for a printable PDF version of the parking map). Visit the City of Grand Rapids Parking page for more information.

Where do I stay?

Book a downtown hotel to stay in the middle of the ArtPrize festivities. There are 13 to choose from – and 80+ more hotels around Grand Rapids to meet any budget and amenity preference.

What else is there to do in Grand Rapids?

Downtown Grand Rapids is home to 300+ restaurants, shops, cultural attractions, entertainment venues and nightlife spots within a 10-minute walk, so there’s plenty to explore outside ArtPrize. If you’re an art lover, you’ll also want to visit Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, named America’s Best Sculpture Park by USA Today, a 10-minute drive from downtown. Grand Rapids is also celebrated for its craft beverages, food, outdoor recreation and family-friendly attractions. Visit our Trip Planning page to find all sorts of fun things to do during your visit and build a personalized itinerary of activities.