Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, and West Michigan is celebrating with historic tributes, family fun, parades, and community traditions. Here’s what to know if you’re spending Labor Day in and around Grand Rapids.

Greatest Generation Celebration at the Ford Museum

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, Grand Rapids
September 1, 10:30 AM

Grand Rapids will host a powerful commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. The event honors the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation with a ceremony dedicated to American and Allied forces, patriots, and citizens who ensured a free world.

1945 Honor Parade and WWII Flyover

Calder Plaza, Grand Rapids
September 1, 10:30 AM

To mark the anniversary, downtown Grand Rapids will also feature a historic Honor Parade and flyover. Expect patriotic displays, community pride, and a one-of-a-kind salute to those who served during World War II.

Labor Day Celebration at Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park

Alto, MI
September 1, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Spend the holiday surrounded by wildlife at Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park. The park offers family-friendly activities, up-close animal encounters, and seasonal fun all weekend long, with special extended hours on Labor Day.

21st Annual Labor Day Cars for Cancer

My Carquest of Muskegon, 5500 Harvey St., Muskegon

This annual car show and community fundraiser brings auto enthusiasts together while raising money for cancer support programs. Expect rows of classic cars, hot rods, and community spirit.

Northville Park Association Boat Regatta

2800 Leelanau Dr. NE, Grand Rapids
September 1, 4:00 – 8:00 PM

The end-of-season celebration at Northville Park features a community boat regatta where anyone can build and enter a boat in the race. It’s a fun, creative way to close out summer with friendly competition on the water.

Holland/Zeeland Community Labor Day Truck Parade

Parade departs from MillerKnoll, Zeeland at 9:15 AM

The Holland and Zeeland communities team up once again for their annual Labor Day truck parade. Families line the streets to cheer for decorated trucks as they roll through town, bringing a festive start to the holiday.

White Lake Labor Day Community Walk

White Lake Area, September 1, 10:00 AM

Join the White Lake Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau for the annual Labor Day Community Walk. Free and open to the public, the walk offers a healthy, social way to celebrate the holiday while enjoying local scenery.

WHAT'S NEXT!

From solemn commemorations to parades, regattas, wildlife encounters, and community walks, Labor Day in West Michigan offers something for everyone. Whether you’re honoring history in Grand Rapids, joining a parade in Zeeland, or taking part in a boat race, it’s a day to celebrate community and connection.