Grand Rapids authorizes return of dozens of events this year, including ArtPrize Updated 12:40 PM; Today 11:38 AM A picture from the Festival of Arts in 2019. The event was cancelled in 2020, but it was authorized to make a return summer 2021. (MLive File Photo) Facebook Share GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Grand Rapids has given the go-ahead to dozens of events to return to the city this year, including ArtPrize, Tuesday night swing dancing and the Grand Rapids Pride Festival. With COVID-19 vaccinations continuing to increase, city commissioners last week authorized numerous special events to take place from April through December. “It is exciting to see the return of the events and activities that make Grand Rapids vibrant,” said Mayor Rosalynn Bliss. “With vaccinations and overall safety awareness on the rise, bringing our community together through these events will be a much-needed step towards rebuilding our local economy and city life.”