The Grand Rapids Centennial Celebration took place in 1926 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first permanent settlement in Grand Rapids. A special committee was established and met every other week to plan and organize the celebration. Subcommittees were established to plan specific elements of the celebration and would report to the general committee regularly.To raise awareness for the celebration, the Centennial Committee commissioned bronze coins featuring Louis and Sophie Campau as well as a book A Citizens History of Grand Rapids to be sold for $1 each. A special emphasis was placed on inviting former residents of Grand Rapids back for the celebration. Taking place during the weekend of September 23-26, the celebration honored Louis Campau and his wife Sophie de Marsac Campau, who became the first permanent white settlers in the area in 1826. The occasion was marked by pageants reenacting the arrival of Louis Campau, as well as the marriage of Harriet Burton, the first pioneer marriage in Grand Rapids, the Pageant of Progress, and a historical dress pageant. In addition to the pageants, various exhibits and events were placed around town. Local business, civic organizations and religious groups were encouraged to participate in the celebration.