GRAM tree-lighting and ice rink opening

Grand Rapids, Mich. (WOTV) - A special evening in downtown Grand Rapids is scheduled for Friday, November 30, 2012. Downtown businesses and organizations have come together to offer a fun holiday experience to the entire community.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRAM) Tree Lighting Ceremony, opening of Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink, and free horse-drawn carriage rides are all part of Friday’s festive family night on the town.

At 5:30pm the ceremony begins as the majestic Holiday Tree on the Grand Rapids Art Museum Wege Plaza is lit for the holiday season. Mayor George Heartwell will welcome everyone downtown to enjoy holidays in the city, and will then announce the official opening of GR Parks and Recreation's Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink. Entertainment throughout the evening will including a special season-opening skating performance by figure skater Kimberly Scott.

GRAM Director and CEO Dana Friis-Hansen has the honors this year of will pulling the switch to illuminate the tree! The ceremony will conclude at 5:45pm, but downtown will continue with holiday festivities.

Galleries inside will stay open until 9:00pm for Friday Nights at GRAM. After a few laps around the skating rink, enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides throughout downtown, provided by the Downtown Alliance. Rides are available from 6:00-8:00pm with pick-up stations on Louis Street, alongside the Art Museum.

As you stroll the streets downtown, watch for festive window displays, and get gift ideas as part of the "Get Your Joy On" merchant celebration. It’s the perfect time to finish your shopping, and support local businesses.

At 7:00pm, as part of GRAM's  Friday Night Conversations, experience a "magical" performance inside the Museum. The performance is inspired by  Real/Surreal-an exhibition from the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York. Featured artists, magician Eric Ross and musician Bruce Ling will perform until 8:30pm.

Schedule of events for November 30, 2012:

5:30-5:45pm

Tree Lighting Ceremony & Opening of Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink*

6:00-8:00pm

Free carriage rides-Louis Street

7:00-8:30pm

Magic & Music – A Surreal Performance: GRAM Lobby

The outdoor Tree Lighting Ceremony is free to attend! Admission to festivities inside the GRAM is $5 after 5pm; free for Members. The Museum will be open until 9pm.

*Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink opens to the public at 5:45 pm November 30, 2012, weather permitting. For more information, visit artmuseumgr.org.