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Grand Rapids Gears Up for Rhythm & Run Community Health Fair

Dive into Wellness at This Weekend's Rhythm and Run Community Health Fair and 5K

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – As the summer sun begins to wane, Grand Rapids residents have a perfect opportunity to prioritize their health and connect with the community at the upcoming Rhythm and Run Community Health Fair and 5K. Scheduled for this Saturday, August 23, 2025, this vibrant event promises a blend of physical activity, educational resources, and rhythmic entertainment, all designed to inspire wellness in a fun, inclusive atmosphere. Hosted at Riverside Park along the scenic Grand River, the fair aims to bring together families, fitness enthusiasts, and health-conscious individuals for a day of empowerment and engagement.

The event kicks off bright and early at 8 a.m. with the highly anticipated 5K run, which weaves through the picturesque trails of Riverside Park. Participants can expect a course that highlights the natural beauty of the area, complete with gentle inclines and shaded paths that make it accessible for runners and walkers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner chasing a personal best or a beginner lacing up for the first time, the 5K emphasizes participation over competition. Registration is still open online through the event's official website, with fees set at $25 for adults and $15 for children under 12. All proceeds benefit local health initiatives, including programs that provide free fitness classes and nutritional counseling to underserved communities in West Michigan.

What sets Rhythm and Run apart from typical health events is its unique fusion of movement and music. The "rhythm" aspect comes alive through live performances scattered throughout the day, featuring local bands, drummers, and dance troupes that will keep the energy high. Imagine starting your run to the beat of upbeat percussion or cooling down with a yoga session synced to soulful melodies. Organizers from the Grand Rapids Health Coalition, in partnership with Spectrum Health and the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, have curated this element to underscore the mental health benefits of music and rhythm in wellness routines. "We wanted to create an event that not only gets people moving but also lifts their spirits," said event coordinator Lisa Thompson in a recent interview. "Rhythm is about finding your inner beat, and combining it with running symbolizes the harmony between body and mind."

Following the 5K, the community health fair opens its gates at 10 a.m., transforming the park into a bustling hub of wellness resources. Over 50 booths will be staffed by experts from various fields, offering everything from free health screenings to interactive demonstrations. Attendees can get their blood pressure checked, learn about diabetes prevention, or even participate in mini-workshops on stress management and healthy eating. For families, there will be kid-friendly zones with obstacle courses, face painting, and educational games that teach the importance of nutrition and exercise in an engaging way. Local vendors, including organic farmers and fitness apparel makers, will showcase products that support sustainable living, encouraging participants to incorporate wellness into their daily lives.

One of the fair's highlights is a series of keynote talks on the main stage, running from noon to 2 p.m. Renowned wellness expert Dr. Elena Ramirez, a nutritionist with ties to the University of Michigan's public health program, will discuss "Fueling Your Body for Life," sharing practical tips on balanced diets amid busy schedules. Following her, fitness trainer Marcus Hale will lead a group session on "Mindful Movement," exploring how incorporating rhythm-based exercises like dance cardio can combat sedentary lifestyles. These sessions are free and open to all, with plenty of seating and shaded areas to accommodate the expected crowd of over 1,000 attendees.

The event also shines a spotlight on community partnerships that extend beyond the day itself. Collaborations with organizations like the Kent County Health Department and the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute ensure that the fair addresses diverse needs, including mental health support for minorities and resources for senior citizens. Free flu shots and COVID-19 boosters will be available on-site, courtesy of mobile clinics, making it easier for residents to stay proactive about their health without the hassle of scheduling separate appointments. Additionally, sustainability is a key theme, with eco-friendly practices such as zero-waste stations and encouragement for participants to carpool or bike to the event.

For those looking to make a day of it, food trucks offering healthy options like fresh salads, smoothies, and grilled veggie wraps will be on hand, proving that wellness can be delicious. The fair wraps up around 4 p.m., but the impact is meant to last. Organizers hope attendees leave not just with sore muscles from the run or new knowledge from the booths, but with a renewed commitment to personal and community health. "In a world where wellness often feels overwhelming, events like this break it down into actionable, enjoyable steps," Thompson added. "We're building a healthier Grand Rapids, one rhythm and one run at a time."

If you're in the area, don't miss this chance to dive into wellness. With free admission to the fair (though the 5K requires registration), it's an accessible way to invest in your well-being while supporting local causes. For more details, including a full schedule and volunteer opportunities, visit the Rhythm and Run website or follow their social media channels. Whether you're there for the run, the rhythm, or the resources, this event is poised to be a highlight of the summer season in Grand Rapids.

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Read the Full MLive Article at:
[ https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2025/08/dive-into-wellness-at-this-weekends-rhythm-and-run-community-health-fair-and-5k.html ]