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Independent Bank will celebrate the opening of its new downtown Grand Rapids headquarters with a free community block party featuring local food, entertainment, activities and an official ribbon cutting on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
Independent Bank will celebrate its new downtown Grand Rapids headquarters with a community block party from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday, October 8, 2026, outside 98 Ottawa Ave. NW. The free public event will feature food and beverage vendors, music, family activities, giveaways, local business engagement and a community-focused raffle.
The celebration marks Independent Bank’s long-term investment in downtown Grand Rapids and its commitment to bringing employees, customers, business leaders and community partners together in the heart of the city.
Independent Bank President and CEO Brad Kessel will deliver remarks at 2:30 p.m., followed by the official ribbon cutting at 2:50 p.m. Media are invited to attend the event and capture the remarks, ribbon cutting and community celebration.
Community celebration highlights include
- Three Grand Rapids experience raffle packages, each featuring $500 in gift cards from local restaurants, coffee shops, entertainment venues, museums and more. Official rules and eligibility information will be available at the event.
- Food and beverage vendors, a DJ, games, giveaways and opportunities to connect with local businesses and neighbors.
- A Be The Difference Day tent where attendees can learn about Independent Bank’s community commitment and share ideas for local needs and organizations deserving of support.
The new headquarters also includes a flexible gathering space for qualifying business and community meetings of up to 40 people, extending the building’s role as a place to convene and build relationships.
“We wanted this building to be more than an office. It gives us a welcoming place to bring people together, host conversations and support the local relationships that matter to our bank and our community,” said Independent Bank Chief Operating Officer Christopher Michaels.
The historic building at 98 Ottawa has long been part of Grand Rapids’ financial and commercial landscape. Independent Bank purchased the property in 2024 and the adjacent 96 Monroe Center property in 2025. The State Bank of Michigan settled there in 1903, followed by a succession of others until Union Bank of Michigan sold the building in 1986. The bank will continue serving personal and business customers at its East Beltline branch and downtown.
More information about the event on Thursday can be found here: https://cvent.me/M32AxQ
Official rules and eligibility information about the raffle can be found at IndependentBank.com/SweepstakesRules
