Families looking for a fun outing with activities, connection, and more for the whole family won’t want to miss the be nice. Family Fun Fest, taking place Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at DeVos Place.
be nice., a West Michigan-based nonprofit focused on mental health education and suicide prevention, has reintroduced their signature family event, formerly known as the Kids & Family Expo, as the be nice. Family Fun Fest. In addition to the name change, the nonprofit has shared that admission to the 2026 event will be free for all attendees, a decision aimed at removing financial barriers and ensuring more families can access community resources, play-based learning and mental health education.
A refreshed vision for the event has also been implemented for 2026 which builds on what families already love while creating deeper, more intentional connections to mental health and overall family wellbeing. The event is aligned with the be nice. action plan—notice, invite, challenge, empower—and uses play as a powerful tool to help families build shared language, understanding and confidence around mental health.
“This event has always been a joyful space for families to connect,” said Christy Buck, founder and CEO of be nice. “As we look toward 2026, we’re excited to expand the purpose behind the play—creating an experience that’s full of fun, movement, and laughter, while also equipping families with tools that support mental health and resilience.”
Designed for children ages 2-10 and their families, the be nice. Family Fun Fest offers a full day of high-energy, interactive fun. Families can expect a wide variety of inflatable attractions, hands-on activities, arts and crafts, and opportunities to engage with community vendors offering resources and experiences for children and caregivers alike. Every activity is intentionally designed to encourage movement, spark creativity, and foster meaningful connection between children and the adults who care for them.
New for 2026 is the EmpowerED Parenting Series, an expanded lineup of expert-led talks and guided conversations created specifically for parents and guardians. Sessions will focus on practical topics such as children’s mental health and development, building resilience, family wellness and digital wellbeing.
The be nice. Family Fun Fest is supported by mission sponsors LMCU and Forest View Hospital, whose partnership helps make the event welcoming, inclusive and impactful for families across West Michigan.
be nice. is also seeking additional community support to help expand access and programming for the 2026 Family Fun Fest. Individuals and organizations interested in sponsoring the event can learn more at benice.org/familyfunfest.
Courtesy of West Michigan Woman.
Logo courtesy of be nice.
