The Live Fire Experience will transform Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids into a showcase of live-fire culinary talent, regional collaboration, and chef-driven hospitality during the 2026 ACF National Convention.
Hosted by the ACF Chapter of Greater Grand Rapids, the event brings together professional chefs from across Michigan, Northern Indiana, Wisconsin, and the Asian Chef Alliance for an unforgettable evening centered around open-flame cooking and culinary connection.
Guests will experience live-fire cooking stations featuring tapas-style cuisine prepared in real time over wood, charcoal, smoke, and gas flame. Each station will highlight the talent, creativity, and regional flavors of the participating chefs, chapters, alliances, restaurants, and foodservice partners.
In addition to the chef stations, the event will feature beverages, live music, chef interaction, and live fire and ice carving demonstrations, creating an energetic outdoor experience in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.
As an official event of the 2026 ACF National Convention, Live Fire Event marks a historic moment as the national convention comes to Grand Rapids for the first time ever. The evening offers a unique opportunity to welcome chefs and culinary professionals from across the country while showcasing the Midwest’s hospitality, food culture, and collaborative spirit. More than a convention event, it is a celebration of Grand Rapids as a destination for culinary excellence, bringing together chefs, sponsors, partners, and guests for a memorable evening of food, fire, and community.

Local Event: The Live Fire Experience

Kent County

Grand Rapids

Michigan

The Live Fire Experience

The Live Fire Experience will transform Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids into a showcase of live-fire culinary...

Grand Rapids ACF

Grand Rapids Metropolitan Area

Kalamazoo County

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Kalamazoo-Portage

Ingham County

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Lansing-East Lansing

St. Joseph County

South Bend Metropolitan Area

South Bend

Indiana

Washtenaw County

Ann Arbor Metropolitan Area

Chelsea

Genesee County

Flint Metropolitan Area

Fenton

Flint

Livingston County

Detroit Metropolitan Area

Hartland

Dexter

Brighton

Oakland County

White Lake-Highland

Synergy Wellness Academy

Have you ever wondered what it's really like to be a massage therapist?
Join us for an immersive three-hour experience where you'll step into the classroom, learn basic anatomy, discover professional massage techniques, and give your very first back, neck, and shoulder massage.
You'll learn from experienced instructors in a fun, supportive environment while exploring whether massage therapy could be the right career for you.
Your registration includes: • Interactive anatomy lesson • Hands-on massage instruction • Guided practice session (actual mini-massage) • Snacks and refreshments • Certificate of completion • Exclusive scholarship opportunity for attendees only ($500+) • Registration fee credited toward your tuition deposit if you enroll







No experience necessary.
Come experience what massage school is really like and discover a career built around helping others.
Space is limited to keep the experience personal and hands-on.
When: June 27, 12pm to 3pm
Where: Synergy Wellness Academy, 2130 Enterprise St. SE, Ste. 100, Kentwood, MI 49508
Instructor: Pete Overvoorde, LMT, Founder and Lead Educator
Cost: $65

Local Event: Massage School for a Day: Experience the Career - June 27, 12p-3p

Massage School for a Day: Experience the Career...

Have you ever wondered what it's really like to be a massage therapist?
Join us for an immersive three-hour experience where...

Massage School for a Day: Experience the Career - June 27, 12p-3p

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Grand Rapids ACF, Neighbor

Posting Activity

The Live Fire Experience

JUN

29

6:00 PM

135 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI

Massage School for a Day: Experience the Career - June 27, 12p-3p