The Live Fire Experience
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.
Date and Time
Monday Jun 29, 2026
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM EDT
Monday, June 29th 6-9PM
Location
Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Fees/Admission
$25 – ACF Members & Limited Convention Access Available to any ACF Member and for those involved in the convention but without full credentials, including trade show vendors, competitors and daily pass holders. $40 – Food & Beverage Industry Professionals (Non-ACF Members) Designed for chefs, operators, and industry professionals who are not ACF members but want to attend, network, and experience the event. To qualify for this ticket price, guests will be required to present a business card at check-in as proof of foodservice industry affiliation before entering the event. $50 – General Admission Open to the public, including guests of convention attendees and ticket holders. Perfect for food enthusiasts and community members looking to experience an unforgettable night of live fire cooking and culinary talent.
Contact Information
GGRACF
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