Cider Week GR Returns with Nine Days of Tastings, Tap Takeovers & a 20-Year Milestone Celebration

GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. (April 23, 2026)- Cider Week GR returns to the heart of Michigan’s apple capital May 8–16, bringing nine days of tastings, tap takeovers, and community-wide celebrations that highlight the region’s thriving cider scene. Hosted by Experience Grand Rapids in partnership with the Michigan Cider Association, the weeklong event culminates in Michigan Cider Fest at Rosa Parks Circle. This free, public celebration features Michigan-made ciders, local food, and live music in the heart of downtown.

This year also marks a major milestone: the 20th anniversary of the Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition (GLINTCAP), the largest cider competition in the world, which will once again welcome top cider makers from across the globe to Grand Rapids.

“Cider Week GR is a celebration of West Michigan’s deep apple roots, and the talented makers who showcase those apples through hard cider,” says Kate Lieto, VP of Marketing at 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.”

The week wraps with Michigan Cider Fest at Rosa Parks Circle on Saturday, May 16 from 3-7 p.m.. The free, all-ages festival invites attendees to experience Michigan’s cider culture firsthand, with a vibrant mix of local pours, food vendors, and live entertainment in an open-air downtown setting. Tasting tickets will be available for purchase on-site to sample a variety of Michigan ciders.

For those looking to explore throughout the week, Flights of Flavor offers a simple, interactive way to participate. “It’s a fun, easy way to get involved,” Lieto said. “Participants can sample cider flights at participating locations and earn points toward exclusive merchandise, both during Cider Week and beyond.”