Grand Rapids’ Enchanting Rolling Wizard Parade Returns For Second Year

One of Grand Rapids' most iconic (and unexpected) local legendaries is a wizard on rollerblades named Zanadu. Yes, you read that correctly. What originally started as a one guy boldly wearing a wizard costume by himself eventually turned into a movement.

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A movement that spurred others to don their cloaks, wizard hats, and wands for a day of communal wizardry on skates around the city of Grand Rapids. While some scoffed at the entire premise, the fascination with a rollerblading wizard led to a gathering unlike anything this city had seen before.

Now, he's running it back once again for a day of wheels, witchcraft, and dragons (okay, maybe not any dragons, but it would certainly be cool if one did appear).

2nd Annual Rolling Wizard Parade

On May 23rd, wizards, witches, and mages all around West Michigan will once again return to Rosa Parks Circle at 1 p.m. to cast a spell of joy and whimsy around the City of Grand Rapids for a low-stakes parade on wheels. While Zanadu's mode of transportation is rollerblades, participants are encouraged to bring "anything that rolls".

Last year's parade was partly due to the city's 175th anniversary. In an interview with WOOD TV8, the self-proclaimed 347-year-old rollerblading wizard revealed he took up skating to oppose his dad, who wants him to get a job at the family apothecary.

It is unknown whether Zanadu will make an appearance, but one can hope he will apparate just in time for the event. You can RSVP for the parade here and read the full event details.