2026 Around the World — A Taste of Italy

Join us to celebrate summer and experience the wonders of la dolce vita at Around the World — A Taste of Italy on June 5, 2026, at Van Andel Institute.

Around the World will feature Italian-inspired food and wine, bringing the refined flavors of the region to Grand Rapids’ summer celebration. The evening will also feature live entertainment and joyful company, all in support of Van Andel Institute for Education.

Suggested attire is summer casual. Complimentary valet parking is available at the main entrance of VAI.

Registration for this event has closed. If you have any questions, please contact Annie Pond at [email protected].

Co-Chairs:

Blake Crabb

Sarah Jones

Tripp VanderWal

Committee members:

Elise Bassi Igoe

Nate & Nichole Gillespie

Matt Jones

Kyle Van Andel

Sydney Vucelich

Artistry Skin Nutrition and XS Sports Package
Treat yourself to wellness from the inside out with this premium Amway package featuring Artistry Skin Nutrition and XS Sports products. Enjoy advanced skincare designed to nourish and revitalize your skin, paired with XS energy and sports nutrition products to help fuel your active lifestyle. A perfect combination of beauty, wellness and performance!
Value: $642 | Starting Bid: $321

A Night at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
Experience an unforgettable getaway at the iconic Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in downtown Grand Rapids. This certificate includes a one-night stay where historic charm meets modern luxury, offering elegant accommodations and exceptional hospitality.
Value: $250 | Starting Bid: $125

‘Blooms in Yellow Room’ by Jim Johnson
Bright and inviting, “Blooms in Yellow Room” captures the warmth and charm of an interior filled with vibrant floral beauty. Jim Johnson’s expressive use of color and light creates a joyful scene that celebrates everyday elegance and the simple pleasure of flowers in bloom. This captivating work brings a sense of comfort, optimism and timeless appeal to any collection.
Value: $750 | Starting Bid: $325

Bonobo Winery Tasting & Charcuterie Experience for 6
Indulge in an unforgettable evening of flavor and elegance with this exclusive Bonobo Winery experience for six. Enjoy a curated wine tasting featuring Bonobo’s exceptional, handcrafted wines, perfectly paired with a beautifully arranged charcuterie board of artisanal meats, cheeses and accompaniments. Set against the stunning backdrop of the winery, this experience is perfect for a relaxing outing with friends or a special celebration. Cheers to great wine, delicious bites and lasting memories!
Value: $150 | Starting Bid: $75

Brickday Party at Bricks & Minifigs
Spark creativity and hands-on fun with a Brickday Party for up to 12 guests at Bricks & Minifigs Grand Rapids. Guests will enjoy an exciting celebration filled with building challenges, imaginative play and interactive activities in a one-of-a-kind party atmosphere. Perfect for birthdays or group celebrations, this experience offers a fun and memorable day for builders of all skill levels.
Value: $249 | Starting Bid: $125

Children’s Birthday Party Experience
Looking for a new and unique idea to celebrate your child’s next birthday or just want to plan a fun gathering? Let VAI help you celebrate while doing something hands-on and fun that’s maybe a little educational, too. (Shhhh! We won’t tell the kids.) Guests will begin by spending some time with our animals: They’ll meet Toby the tortoise, Cleo the bearded dragon, Garrus the corn snake and so many more loveable critters. Then, they’ll dive into an engineering investigation where their skills and resilience will be tested — Can their construct sustain VAI’s Shake Table? Our science parties are two hours filled with fun and exciting science that will engage kids from grades K–12 to think — and act — like scientists. You bring the cake, and we’ll provide the fun!

Party for up to 20 children includes:

• Private access to lab area for up to 2.5 hours, including setup and time for discovery
• A dedicated party facilitator
• Fun, hands-on science experiments
• Time with VAI’s animals
• Free parking

Value: $300 | Starting Bid: $150

Funky Buddha Yoga
Find your flow and add a little fun to your practice with this package from Funky Buddha Yoga! Enjoy one month of unlimited yoga at any of their three locations, giving you the flexibility to explore a variety of classes, styles and instructors. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just getting started, this is the perfect opportunity to build strength, reduce stress and reconnect with yourself. Plus, take home some signature Funky Buddha stickers to show off your zen with a playful twist.
Value: $175 | Starting Bid: $85

Gimme’s Par & Grill
Tee up a great time with this fun-filled package from Gimme’s Par & Grill! Enjoy a one-hour simulator bay gift certificate, perfect for practicing your swing, playing a virtual round, or just having a blast with friends — rain or shine. After your game, relax and refuel with a $50 gift card to Gimme’s, where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just in it for the fun, this experience is a hole-in-one!
Value: $125 | Starting Bid: $60

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre 4-pack Tickets
Celebrate 100 years of storytelling with this package from Grand Rapids Civic Theatre! This four-ticket bundle invites you to experience the magic of their Centennial Season, featuring an exciting lineup of beloved classics, powerful dramas and crowd-pleasing musicals that honor a century of exceptional community theatre.

From timeless favorites to fresh productions, each show in this milestone season showcases the incredible talent, creativity, and passion that have made Civic Theatre a Grand Rapids treasure for generations. Whether you’re planning a date night or a memorable outing with friends, this is your chance to be part of a historic season filled with unforgettable performances.
Value: $180 | Starting Bid: $90

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre 2-pack Tickets
Celebrate 100 years of storytelling with this package from Grand Rapids Civic Theatre! This two-ticket bundle invites you to experience the magic of their Centennial Season, featuring an exciting lineup of beloved classics, powerful dramas, and crowd-pleasing musicals that honor a century of exceptional community theatre.

From timeless favorites to fresh productions, each show in this milestone season showcases the incredible talent, creativity, and passion that have made the Civic Theatre a Grand Rapids treasure for generations. Whether you’re planning a date night or a memorable outing with friends, this is your chance to be part of a historic season filled with unforgettable performances.
Value: $90 | Starting Bid: $45

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
Treat the kids (and yourself!) to a day of hands-on fun with this silent auction package featuring six daily admission passes to the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. This vibrant, interactive space is designed to spark curiosity and creativity through engaging exhibits and imaginative play. From building and exploring to experimenting and creating, there’s something for every young mind to enjoy. Perfect for a family outing or a fun day with friends, this experience promises laughter, learning and unforgettable memories!
Value: $72 | Starting Bid: $35

Grand Rapids Public Museum
Enjoy a day of discovery with this silent auction package featuring two general admission passes to the Grand Rapids Public Museum! Explore fascinating exhibits that bring history, science and culture to life — from engaging hands-on displays to captivating stories of the region and beyond. Perfect for a date, friends or a family outing, this experience offers something for curious minds of all ages. Don’t miss your chance to learn, explore and be inspired!
Value: $28 | Starting Bid: $14

GRCMC Membership and Certification Package
Discover your creative voice with this exciting media production package from the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. This bundle includes a one-year All Access Membership along with a GRTV Certification Class, providing the tools and training to explore video production, storytelling, and community media. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, content creator, or simply curious about media production, this experience offers hands-on learning and access to professional resources in a collaborative creative environment.
Value: $80 | Starting Bid: $40

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

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 | Starting Bid: $132

Olivia Grace & Company
Make your next celebration truly magical with this $100 gift certificate toward a new booking with Olivia Grace & Company! Olivia Grace & Company brings beloved characters to life with enchanting performances, interactive storytelling and unforgettable moments that delight children and guests alike. Perfect for birthday parties, special events or celebrations, this experience adds a touch of wonder and imagination to any occasion. Don’t miss the chance to create smiles, laughter and memories that will last a lifetime!
Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

Pickleball Bundle
This pickleball bundle has everything you need to hit the court and have some fun. Featuring a paddle, pickleballs, a convenient backpack and an assortment of swag, this package is perfect for beginners, seasoned players or anyone looking to elevate their game. Whether you’re competing for the win or just enjoying time with friends, this bundle brings together style, function and plenty of pickleball spirit.
Value: $300 | Starting Bid: $150

Pickleball Vibes Bundle
Bring a little pickleball fun wherever you go with this spirited collection of pickleball-themed accessories. This bundle includes stylish visors, sports towels, coffee mugs, drink napkins, drink stirrers and a charming Pickleball Vibes canvas tote bag — perfect for carrying your gear or everyday essentials. Whether you’re a dedicated player, a courtside cheerleader or simply love the pickleball lifestyle, this bundle serves up plenty of personality, practicality and pickleball pride.
Value: $240 | Starting Bid: $120

Pottery Lane
Get creative and support local artistry with this charming silent auction package from Pottery Lane in Grand Rapids! This package includes a gift certificate to use toward their wide variety of offerings, along with a beautifully handcrafted mug — perfect for adding a touch of handmade warmth to your daily routine.

Pottery Lane is a welcoming space for artists of all skill levels, offering engaging classes where you can learn the art of ceramics, from wheel throwing to hand-building. They also feature a thoughtfully curated retail shop stocked with pottery supplies, tools and unique handmade pieces. Whether you’re looking to try something new, grow your skills or shop for one-of-a-kind items, this experience is sure to inspire creativity and connection.
Value: $90 | Starting Bid: $45

Sarah MacLachlan at the Acrisure
Experience an unforgettable night of music with two tickets to see Sarah McLachlan live at Acrisure Amphitheatre! Known for her soulful voice and timeless hits, Sarah McLachlan delivers a captivating performance filled with emotion, artistry and fan-favorite songs. Set in the beautiful outdoor venue, this concert is the perfect evening out for music lovers. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy an incredible live performance under the stars.
Value: $331 | Starting Bid: $165

Schuler Books Travel Bundle
Get ready to travel the world with a collection of travel books and accessories to help along the way. From inspiring guides and destination reads to handy travel essentials, this package is perfect for adventurers, dreamers, and anyone planning their next getaway. Whether you’re mapping out a big trip or exploring from your favorite reading chair, this bundle will take you places — no passport required!
Value: $200 | Starting Bid: $100

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

Shopping Spree at Leigh’s
Indulge in a premier shopping experience with this $500 gift card to Leigh’s in Grand Rapids! Known for its curated collection of designer fashion, accessories and exceptional customer service, Leigh’s offers a personalized boutique experience like no other. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe, searching for the perfect statement piece or treating yourself to something special, this generous gift card opens the door to style and sophistication. Don’t miss your chance to shop one of Grand Rapids’ most beloved fashion destinations!
Value: $500 | Starting Bid: $250

‘The Highlands’ by Bethany Levandowski
In “The Highlands,” Bethany Levandowski transforms a quiet waterside landscape into an impressionistic study of light, reflection and color. Brilliant golden foliage shimmers across the water’s surface, blurring the line between reality and reflection. Rich greens, vibrant yellows and serene blue tones evoke the beauty of a changing season, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the tranquility and wonder found in nature’s fleeting moments.
Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

VAI Golf Bundle
Tee off in style while supporting discovery and innovation with this exclusive Van Andel Institute golf bundle. Perfect for golfers of all skill levels, this package includes a VAI-branded club head cover, a set of golf balls and a durable golf umbrella to keep you covered on and off the course. Whether you’re playing a round with friends or adding VAI spirit to your game, this practical and distinctive collection is a hole-in-one for any golf enthusiast.
Value: $75 | Starting Bid: $33

Wine Tasting at Chateau Chantel
Gather your friends for a memorable tasting experience with this package from Chateau Chantal! Enjoy flights of three wines for six guests, featuring a curated selection of the winery’s handcrafted vintages. Set atop the scenic Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers breathtaking views of Grand Traverse Bay to complement every sip. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply savoring time together, this experience pairs exceptional wine with an unforgettable setting. Cheers to great company and even better wine!
Value: $90 | Starting Bid: $45

Winter Tires
Half 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