Community Nights
A space for women in their 20s and 30s to gather, move, and connect.
Community Nights are intentional, low-pressure gatherings designed to help you step outside, meet new women, and build real friendships... without forced networking or awkward small talk.
Weather we're hiking, walking, exploring a local spot, or trying something new, every event is centered around connection and shared experience.
No experience required. Just come as you are.
What Community Nights Are:
Community Nights are small-group gatherings hosted throughout West Michigan. Each event includes:
- A shared activity (hike, walk, seasonal outing, or local experience)
- Guided connection moments
- Space for organic conversation
- A welcome, no-pressure environment
- A group photo memory moment
Every event is intentionally structured but relaxed, you'll always know what to expect while still having room to simply enjoy the moment.
How it Works
1. Browse the Upcoming Events below.
2. Choose any event you'd like to attend. No matter the region.
3. RSVP through the event link.
4. Receive detailed information via email.
5. Show up and connect
You're welcome to join any Community Night that fits your schedule, even if it's outside your immediate area. Many women choose to travel to attend.
Specific addresses and final details are shared after RSVP for safety and privacy.
Most events are free or low-cost depending on the activity.
Who It's For
Community Nights are designed for women in their 20s and 30s who want to:
- Make new connections
- Explore the outdoors
- Try new experiences
- Step outside their routine
- Reconnect with themselves
- Build meaningful friendships in a natural, low-pressure way
You don't need to be new to the area.
You don't need to be outdoorsy.
You don't need to bring a friend.
Just come as you are.
Why Join Us?
Because making friends as an adult shouldn't feel impossible
Community Nights create:
- Consistent opportunities to connect
- Familiar faces over time
- Shared experiences that naturally build friendships
- A welcoming environment rooted in girlhood, growth, and community
This isn't just an event... It's a growing community.
📍 Our Regional Rotation
We host Community Nights across West Michigan on a rotating schedule so more women have the opportunity to attend an event closer to home.
While exact dates and venues are listed under Upcoming Events, this is our current regional rotation through November:
🌿 Central Hub (Grand Rapids Area)
Hosted Every Month
Includes: Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Kentwood, Grandville, Ada, Cascade, Caledonia, Jenison, Comstock Park
This is our primary hub where the majority of Community Nights take place.
🌊 Lakeshore North
May • July • September • November
Includes: Grand Haven, Muskegon
🌾 Lakeshore South
June • August • October
Includes: Holland, Zeeland, West Olive, Hamilton
🌅 West Corridor
June • September • November
Includes:
Hudsonville, Coopersville, Allendale
🌲 North of Grand Rapids
July • October
Includes: Rockford, Sand Lake, Ravenna
🌄 East Corridor
August
Includes: Lowell, Ionia, Portland
🧭 Expansion & Special Event Areas
Some areas currently have smaller pockets of interest and may be used for special events, seasonal hikes, or future community expansions.
These locations may appear occasionally throughout the year depending on interest and event type.
If your region isn't listed this month, don't worry, we rotate intentionally throughout the year.
Make sure you've selected your location inside the Community Interest Form so we can prioritize demand accurately.
Upcoming Community Night Events
🌅 SUNRISE WALK + COFFEE STOP
Sunday, March 22
Start your morning slowly with a peaceful sunrise walk followed by a cozy coffee stop. This is a gentle way to reset, reflect, and connect before the day begins.
What's Included
- Group sunrises walk
- Intentional connection time
- Optional coffee stops afterward
Event Details
Date: Sunday, March 22
Time: TBD
Location: Grand River Ravines
Investment: Free (coffee not included)
Spots: Open community event
This Event Is for you If:
- You love quiet early mornings
- You want accountability to get outside
- You enjoy meaningful conversation over coffee
Important Notes:
- Coffee purchase is optional and not included
- Exact location and meeting details will be shared closer to the date
- Dress warmly for early morning temperatures
🌸 OUTDOOR EASTER POTLUCK
Saturday, March 28
Join us for a joyful outdoor gathering to celebrate Easter early together. This afternoon will be filled with good food, conversation, and a relaxed park picnic atmosphere. Bring a dish to share and come ready to slow down and enjoy community.
What's Included
- Outdoor picnic-style gathering
- Shared potluck meal
- Community connection
- Seasonal celebration
Event Details
Date: Saturday, March 28
Time: 1 PM
Location: Huff Park
Investment: Free (bring a dish to pass)
Spots: Open community event
This Event Is for you If:
- You love holiday gatherings
- You enjoy sharing food and traditions
- You're looking for intentional community time
Important Notes:
- Please bring a dish to share
- No dogs permitted at this event
- Bring a blanket or lawn chair for seating
Cozy Girls Movie Night 🍿
Join us for an intimate, cozy movie night designed for connection, laughter, and slowing down together. Think homemade pizza, blankets on the floor, warm lighting, and a room full of girls who just get it.
Featuring: Camp Rock
Your Ticket Included:
- Homemade pizza
- Snacks + popcorn
- Cozy seating setup
- Movie screening
- Intentional connection time
- Group photo moment
Date & Time: Saturday, April 11 at 6 PM
Location: Private Residence in Allendale, MI (Address sent after RSVP)
Investment: $25/person
Spots Available: 10-15 (based on carpooling)
Parking: 10 parking passes available. Carpooling encouraged to open additional spots.
This night is for you if:
- You love cozy nights in
- You're craving deeper girl friendships
- You want something intentional but low-pressure
- You need a break from your busy week
For home events:
- Limited seating
- No refunds
- Doors close at 6:30 PM
- Bring a pillow/blanket if desired
- Women-only space
🌿 TRAIL CLEAN-UP DAY
Sunday, April 26
Join us as we give back to one of our local parks and spend the afternoon caring for the trails that care for us. This is a community service day focused on stewardship, connection, and loving the spaces we gather in.
What's Included
- Organized trail clen-up effort
- Supplies for litter collection
- Community connection time
- A meaningful way to give back
Event Details
Date: Sunday, April 26
Time: 2 PM
Location: Grand Ravines Park
Investment: Free
Spots: Open community event
This Event Is for you If:
- You love nature and want to protect it
- You enjoy purposeful community time
- You want to serve locally in a simple but impactful way
Important Notes:
- Dogs are welcome
- Gloves are encouraged if you have them
- Please dress for outdoor work
Past Events
Over the past season, we've gathered across trails, beaches, and local spots throughout West Michigan.
From small, cozy groups to larger summer hikes, each event builds on the last, creating familiar faces and stringer friendships over time.
What Women Are Saying
One of the best parts of Girlhood in the Woods is the community that forms along the trail. Many women come to their first event feeling a little nervous - often not knowing anyone - and leave feeling like they've found something really special.
Here's what women have been saying after joining our hikes and community nights.
What was your experience like at the GITW event?
"I was nervous at first, but the moment I got there I felt welcomed instantly. Everything was thoughtful planed out, everyone was welcoming and friendly. The best experience I have had." -Sadie
"I’ve only been to one event and loved it. I’m hoping to come to more.”
"My friend and I have never felt so welcome before. It was genuinely the best time I’ve had in so long!" -Galentine's Attendee
“I have attended two events and absolutely loved both of them! It is such a welcoming community, and connections feel easy!”
"Going in not knowing what to expect had me nervous for the event but it ended up being such an amazing experience. Getting to meet so many new girls around my age and connecting with them brought so much joy to my day. I can’t wait for the next event!" - Paint & Sip attendee
"I had a lovely time meeting some kind people and connecting over a shared hobby!" - Rachael
What would you tell someone who is nervous about attending their first event?
"Fake it till you make it! Getting your first food in the door is the scariest part but after that it is such an amazing time." - Paint & Sip attendee
"Just do it, it's so worth it and you'll want to go to every event after." - Sadie
"Everyone is just like you, just there to connect with new friends! If you’re nervous, bring a friend!" - Rachael
Want to Join Us?
The best way to stay informed is by:
- Joining the email list
- Filling out the Community Interest Form
- Following along on Instagram for announcements
Events are announced 1-3 months in advance depending on the activity and season.
FAQ
no. Many women come solo, that's the point.
Most are movement or nature-based, but seasonal and specialty events may vary.
Community Nights are designed for women in their 20s and 30s.
We host multiple events each month across rotating regions in West Michigan.
Check the Regional Rotation section above and make sure you're on the email list.
Not at all! Come when it works for you. Each week is a new, stand-alone activity.