2026 Winterfest Celebration

This event is sold out. Please contact Annie at [email protected] to be added to the list. 

Join Van Andel Institute as we commemorate the 21st annual Winterfest Celebration, to be held at Cascade Hills Country Club on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026.

For three decades, VAI has fueled bold ideas, transformative research and hope for a healthier future. Winterfest Celebration has been part of that story for 21 years — bringing together friends, supporters and scientists to advance Parkinson’s disease research and celebrate the power of community. With your generous support, VAI pursues breakthroughs, from understanding how and why Parkinson’s begins and progresses to supporting groundbreaking clinical trials that evaluate promising potential therapies.

Enjoy an elegant evening of spirited company along with inspiring insights from Dr. Darren Moore, the Jay Van Andel Endowed Chair in Parkinson’s Disease Research and chair of VAI’s Department of Neurodegenerative Science.

Since its inception, Winterfest has raised $3 million in support of Parkinson’s research. This year, we invite you to help us reach new heights through a paddle raise, silent auction and raffle featuring exclusive experiences and can’t-miss items.

Let’s commemorate 21 years of Winterfest Celebration — and 30 years of Van Andel Institute’s impact — together.

Smart casual attire is suggested. Complimentary valet parking will be available at the main club entrance.

Event Chairs

George & Missy Sharpe

Event Committee

Rob & Dawn Arnoys

Sally Murdock

Ashley Owen Whyte

Ron Rutkowski

Kyle Van Andel

Thanks to our incredible 2026 sponsors!

Allison Burr Haircut Package
One haircut with Allison Burr — Vidal Sassoon Master Stylist and Wella Master Color Expert.
Value: $85 | Starting Bid: $43

Amore Tasting for Two
Enjoy the tasting menu at Amore Trattoria
Italiana in Rockford for two people.
Value: $118 | Starting Bid: $59

Amway Grand Plaza & Ruth’s Chris
Enjoy an evening at the Amway Grand Plaza and dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Included in the package is one night in a luxurious guest room for two; 20% off non-sale, non-food items in the Plaza Essentials Gift Shop and other select retail shops; self or valet parking for one vehicle with unlimited in and out access; your choice of one bottle of sparkling wine, pinot grigio, or Cabernet Sauvignon; and a $100 gift card to Ruth’s Chris Steak House Grand Rapids.
Value: $500 | Starting Bid: $250

Beem Light Sauna
Experience the rejuvenating power of light therapy with beem Light Sauna! This donation includes a four-session package of infrared and red-light therapy, designed to support mental and physical wellness. Whether you’re seeking pain relief, stress reduction, improved skin health or a boost to your overall well-being, these sessions are tailored to help you feel your best. This package offers a unique opportunity to discover the transformative benefits of science-backed holistic light therapies in a clean, serene and welcoming environment.
Value: $336 | Starting Bid: $165

Beyond Cooler Package
Be ready for your next outdoor adventure with a 20-liter Hydro Flask insulated cooler, two stainless steel travel mugs and a microfiber beach towel. And, if you still need more supplies, you can stock up with a $250 gift card.
Value: $400 | Starting Bid: $200

BMW Baby Racer
The iconic BMW Baby Racer is based on the design of current BMW models. This push-powered signature BMW is sure to be the most stylish ride in the playroom.
Value: $165 | Starting Bid: $82

Bowdie’s Chophouse
Indulge in an unforgettable steakhouse experience at Bowdie’s Chophouse, where classic elegance meets exceptional hospitality. This $250 gift card is your invitation to enjoy expertly hand-cut steaks, top quality seafood, and an award-winning cocktail and wine list across any of our locations in Saugatuck, East Grand Rapids, Lansing, Zionsville and Hilton Head Island. Perfect for a celebratory dinner, date night or special occasion, Bowdie’s is known for its attentive service, refined atmosphere and timeless approach to fine dining. Treat yourself, or someone lucky, to a truly memorable dining experience.
Value: $250 | Starting Bid: $125

BRG Performance Center
Get your golf game ready with six hours of Trackman Simulator time at BRG Performance Center. Times to be used in one or two hour increments per visit across three to six visits.
Value: $210 | Starting Bid: $105

Celebration Cinema
Enjoy a movie with friends or family at Celebration Cinema! Includes five $10 gift cards and a refillable popcorn bucket.
Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant Package
Magnum bottle of Meritage wine with complimentary three-month wine club membership and tasting for two.
Value: $100 | Starting Bid $50

Debbie Martilotta
Three personal training sessions with Debbie Martilotta, certified personal trainer and fitness coach.
Value: $90 | Starting Bid: $45

Festival Season Passes
Don’t miss out on any of the festivals all year at Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm Market with four season passes. Festivals include Strawberry Fest, Pickle Fest, Sunflower Fest, Pumpkin Palooza and many more!
Value: $160 | Starting Bid: $80

Fitzgerald’s Men’s Store
Treat yourself with a $200 gift card to Fitzgerald’s Men’s Store in Breton Village. From trusted and classic men’s clothing and accessory brands to in-store tailoring, a full-service men’s salon, and shoeshine right here in the shop, every detail is designed to make dressing well feel effortless.
Value: $200 | Starting Bid: $100

Funky Buddha Yoga Membership
Enjoy a one-month membership to Funky Buddha Yoga. This membership offers unlimited access to a variety of classes led by experienced instructors in a welcoming, community-focused environment. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, Funky Buddha provides the perfect space to build strength, increase flexibility and find balance.
Value: $175 | Starting Bid $87

Gimme’s Par & Grill
Enjoy one hour of free simulator bay time [CS1] and a $25 gift card to Gimme’s Par & Grill in downtown Grand Rapids.
Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre 4-Pack
Enjoy an evening of entertainment with friends or family! The four-ticket voucher is redeemable for any shows at the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre in the 2025/2026 season.
Value: $192 | Starting Bid: $96

Grand Rapids Rise Volleyball Tickets
Six tickets to the Grand Rapids Rise Purple Community Game on April 22, 2026.
Value: $193 | Starting Bid: $96

GRIT Pilates
Enjoy this packed gift basket including two new client packages, three group Pilates reformer sessions, two GRIT sweatshirts, Previnex supplements and shakers.
Value: $300 | Starting Bid: $150

GRIT Pilates
Certificate for a VIP Private Pilates reformer party for up to 10 people.
Value: $300 | Starting Bid: $150

Haworth Zody Ergonomic Office Chair
Work in comfort with the Haworth Zody Chair! Featuring adjustable lumbar support, tilt and height controls and a breathable mesh back, it’s perfect for home or office use. Sleek, supportive and built for all-day productivity.
Value: $1,383 | Starting Bid: $700

Heidi Christine’s Salon & Spa Pedicure
Certificate good for one pedicure at the Heidi Christine’s Salon & Spa Ada location.
Value: $60 | Starting Bid: $30

Heidi Christine’s Salon & Spa Haircut, Color & Highlight
Certificate good for one haircut, color and highlight at the Heidi Christine’s Salon & Spa Ada location.
Value: $200 | Starting Bid: $100

Hotel Walloon Weekend
Enjoy a weekend getaway at the elegant Hotel Walloon! Generously included in this package is a SHARPE Collection lease and a $1,200 gift card for Hotel Walloon accommodations.
Value: $1,200 | Starting Bid: $600

Jewell Artistry
Experience high-quality products with gentle ingredients and effective science at Jewell Artistry. Certificate good for one full set of eyelash extensions and a permanent bracelet.
Value: $265 | $132

Lego Defender Kit
Experience world-leading vehicle design firsthand with this highly authentic and displayable Lego® Technic™ Land Rover Defender model. Developed in partnership with Land Rover, this impressive Lego replica captures the vehicle’s outstanding level of refinement with its clean, modern lines and sculpted surfaces, and comes with original-design rims with ground-gripping tires, plus a host of realistic features and functions.
Value: $240 | Starting Bid $120

Martha’s Vineyard 6-Pack of Wine
Six-pack of exquisite wines nested in a wooden box: Kathryn Kennedy 2016, Gerald Talmard Macon-Chardonnay 2022, Crocker & Starr 2018, Terra Costantino 2022, Harvey & Harriet and Grgich Hills Estate 2021.
Value: $500 | Starting Bid: $250

MSU vs. Rutgers
Four tickets and a parking pass to the MSU men’s basketball game against Rutgers on Thursday, March 5.
Value: $240 | Starting Bid: $120

Noreen Owens Portrait Certificate #1
Good for one portrait session and $1,000 (covers an 11 x 14 inch with full artistry) toward portrait selection.
Value : $1,250 | Starting Bid: $625

Noreen Owens Portrait Certificate #2
Good for one portrait session and $1,000 (covers an 11 x 14 inch with full artistry) toward portrait selection.
Value : $1,250 | Starting Bid: $625

Noreen Owens Portrait Certificate #3
Good for one portrait session and $1,000 (covers an 11 x 14 inch with full artistry) toward portrait selection.
Value : $1,250 | Starting Bid: $625

Olives Restaurant
$100 gift card to Olives restaurant in East Grand Rapids.
Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

Parooz Gift Shop
Enjoy your next Michigan evening with a cozy blanket, Michigan map platter, and M Salt spice blend from Parooz Gift Shop.
Value: $73 | Starting Bid: $36

Renewal Skin Spa
Treat yourself with a day at the spa! The $350 gift certificate is good for any treatments and services at Renewal Skin Spa.
Value: $350 | Starting Bid: $125

Signed Grand Rapids Griffins Hockey Stick
Commemorate the record setting 2025–2026 Grand Rapids Griffins season with a team autographed hockey stick.
Value: $500 | Starting Bid: $250

Simply the Best Aesthetics
Included in this pampering package from Simply the Best Aesthetics is a Hydrinity travel bag stuffed with products, a free skin consultation and a $500 credit toward services.
Value: $730 | Starting Bid $365

Skin|CoLAB
Enjoy a full facial balancing treatment with Meredith Kent, MS, PA-C at Skin|CoLAB in downtown Ada.
Value: $3,500 | Starting Bid: $1,750

Susie Q Sweets
Certificate for two dozen cookies made to order. Special occasion? Susie can help! Birthday, anniversary, appreciation gift … make it special with custom cookies!
Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

Tina & Mom Nails
Pamper yourself at Tina & Mom Nails Studio with a $100 gift card.
Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

Tina & Mom Nails #2
Pamper yourself at Tina & Mom Nails Studio with a $100 gift card.
Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

Tullymore Golf Resort Package
Enjoy a golf foursome to play 18 holes — with golf cart included — at Tullymore Golf Resort’s St. Ives Course. Crafted from the dramatic glacier-carved landscape of Michigan, St. Ives combines mystic woodlands, sprawling wetlands and rugged highlands into a spectacular course.
Value: $500 | Starting Bid: $250

Vehicle Spa Package
Complete exterior and interior detailing package, performed at SHARPE dealership.
Value: $350 | Starting Bid: $175

VIP Grand Rapids Griffins Experience
Receive four tickets to a game of your choice that will include an opportunity to attend the team’s morning gameday skate, watch from the bench, tour the locker room, and meet many of the players and coaches of the 2025–2026 Griffins.
Value: $600 | Starting Bid: $300

West Michigan Whitecaps Family 4-Pack
Enjoy a baseball game with the family! Includes four box seats, four hot dogs, four sodas and a first pitch experience.
Value: $240 | Starting Bid: $120

Winter Tires
$500 off a set of winter tires plus a free season of tire storage. Applies to BMW, MINI, or Land Rover Tires.
Value: $700 | Starting Bid: $350

YETI Cooler
Large YETI cooler packed with snacks and treats for your next adventure.
Value: $400 | Starting Bid: $200

One 18-karat yellow and white gold, natural diamond necklace by Simon G. The necklace has 26 round, brilliant cut diamonds with a combined weight of 1.85 carats. They are F color and VS clarity.

Value $7,150.00 | Donated by Almassian Jewelers