The Lit is a warm, historic cultural venue where community, creativity, and connection come alive. We host gatherings, workshops, and arts‑driven experiences that invite people to learn, celebrate, and belong. Rooted in Grand Rapids’ rich literary and cultural heritage, The Lit is a place where stories and communities grow.
61 Sheldon Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 320-2030
Here's What's Comin' Up At The Lit
February 25, 2026: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm - CONNECTION CITY SWING WITH JOSIAH NUEST
💃✨ West Coast Swing Night at The Lit! ✨
Ready to move, laugh, and connect with an incredible community? Join us at The Lit for West Coast Swing night—open to every level, whether you’re brand‑new, rediscovering your groove, or a seasoned dancer looking for a great night out. No partner required. Just bring yourself and your good energy.
🎟️$10 for the whole night
🕖 Beginner lesson: 7:00–7:45 PM
🎶 Social dancing: 7:45–10:00 PM
🍿 SNACK BAR
🥪 LIGHT BITES MENU
🍾 BEVERAGE BAR
☕️ COFFEE AND COCOA BAR$5.00 at the door
February 26th from 5:30-7:30 P.M - GRAND RIVER POETRY COLLECTIVE
WEEKLY POETRY SALON
Coming up Thursday, February 26th from 5:30-7:30 P.M. is our monthly poetry salon. It'll be at The Lit again, and we have so much to talk about! Venues, festivals, publications, exhibits, and a new open mic are currently on the agenda. In addition, we'll be discussing how to be more involved in the various operations of the collective, e.g., the publishing operations. We'll also have an open floor time for you to voice anything you want to discuss! We're looking forward to seeing you!
Free and open to the public. Beverages and small snacks for sale. The LIT is the Ladies Literary Club building located at 61 Sheldon Blvd downtown Grand Rapids. Doors open about 5pm and the meeting starts at 5:30pm. Parking is available on the street with meters active until 7pm. There is other non-metered parking about if you can find it. We're looking forward to seeing you!
🍿 SNACK BAR
🥪 LIGHT BITES MENU
🍾 BEVERAGE BAR
☕️ COFFEE AND COCOA BAR$5.00 at the door
February 27, 2026: 6:00 pm - 12:00 am - SAVE THE LIT FUNDRAISER
THE TIME IS NOW AND WE NEED YOUR HELP!
We are hosting a fundraising benefit to help keep The Lit alive so that we may continue on our mission of providing a community space for everyone who needs it. This is an urgent call for action and we hope you'll swing by.
Enjoy a full night of entertainment including:
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Ballroom dancing
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Silent auction
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50/50 raffle
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Henna Art with Juliea Paige
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Late night dancing to spins from "Zalokar Entertainment,"
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A spotlight performance from emerging artist "Mar In Color"
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Concessions
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Small bites
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Cash bar
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The Lit Coffee and Cocoa Bar
Admission is donation‑based, and we’re asking our community to come together, enjoy a great evening, and give anything you can to keep this cultural home alive. Multiple donor tier benefits include free concert tickets, discounts on spaces and services, naming opportunities, private events, and more.
Please consider donating to this cause: https://www.thepennyloafer.com/donate
This event is being generously hosted by our great friends, Destination Dances. XO
Magical Moments Happen Here
Get in Touch
The Lit Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit cultural organization (EIN: 39-5161314) dedicated to preserving the historic Ladies’ Literary Club building and opening its doors to the community as an inclusive home for arts, culture, learning, and connection. Your support helps us maintain this landmark, offer accessible programming, and provide a welcoming space for nonprofits, artists, and neighbors across Grand Rapids. If you'd like to support our mission and help keep us afloat to carry on the mission, please click here to be directed to our donor page.
Thank you for your support!