Hessel School House

Snowy Owl Festival
2026-02-07 08:00 - 20:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
3rd Annual Snowy Owl Festival
Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center
NOTE: Many events have sold out already. To be added to a wait list, please call 906-484-1333.
February 6 – 8, 2026
The Snowy Owl Festival is an annual celebration dedicated to the snowy owl and its winter migration to the Eastern Upper Peninsula. It brings together wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and families to learn about and appreciate the beauty of these remarkable birds. The festival features an educational lecture, guided birdwatching tours, and live owl presentations, making it a must attend event for those passionate about nature and wildlife.

TICKETS GO ON SALE NOVEMBER 7, 2025

Friday, February 6, 2026

Early Bird Snowy Owl Birdwatching Tour (Carpool)
Friday, February 6 • 1:00 – 4:00 PM

Kick off the Snowy Owl Festival with an exclusive early-bird bird-watching adventure! Join us for an afternoon carpool tour through prime winter habitat as we search for snowy owls and other seasonal raptors. This guided outing offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy quiet winter landscapes, learn from experienced birders, and spot these majestic Arctic visitors before the festival’s keynote presentation and evening celebration.
To reduce traffic on winter roads and minimize disturbance to wildlife, space is limited by vehicle count. Carpooling is highly encouraged, and advance registration is required to secure your spot. Dress warmly, bring binoculars or a spotting scope if you have them, and get ready for an unforgettable start to the festival weekend! $40 per person.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

Insights on Owl Research with
Friends of Whitefish Point
5:00 – 7:00 PM
Join Chris Neri and Nova Mackentley, renowned wildlife photographers and field biologists, for an engaging presentation. With nearly 20 years of experience banding migrating owls, they will share captivating stories and valuable insights into the trends of snowy owls in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. You won’t want to miss this opening night presentation!
$10.00 per person. To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

Saturday, February 7, 2026
Snowy Owl Winter Birdwatching Tour – 2 sessions available!
8:00 AM – Noon
OR
1:00 – 5:00 PM

Join us for a guided birding adventure through the stunning winter landscapes of Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula! This special tour by bus offers a rare opportunity to search for the iconic Snowy Owl along with a variety of other winter-loving species that call this region home.
Led by avid birder and wildlife photographer Joe Kwasniewski, participants will travel by bus to several prime birding hotspots. Joe will share expert insights into winter bird behavior, habitat, and identification—while helping you spot and photograph these majestic Arctic visitors and their feathered neighbors.
With a small group size of only 24 participants, this immersive experience ensures personal attention, fantastic viewing opportunities, and a relaxed, supportive atmosphere for both beginners and seasoned birders.
Bundle up, bring your binoculars and camera, and get ready for a magical winter birding outing you won’t soon forget!
Tour Includes: Transportation by school bus, guided instruction, and unforgettable winter wildlife experiences.
Secure your spot for just $40 per person. To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

LIVE Owl Presentation – 2 presentations available!
10:00 – 11:30 AM OR 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Are you ready to soar into a world of wonder? We’re thrilled to invite you to a captivating Live Owl Presentation hosted by Wildlife Recovery Association! This is a fantastic opportunity for all ages to meet live owls up close and learn about these fascinating birds and their vital role in our ecosystem. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a curious child, or simply looking for a unique weekend activity, this event promises to be educational and fun! Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this chance to experience the magic of owls firsthand. $10.00 per person.

Due to popularity last year, this presentation is offered twice on Saturday – 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

NEW EVENT!
Paint n’ Sip: Snowy Owl
Saturday, February 7 • 5:00-7:00 pm
Come and take part in the Snowy Owl Festival’s Paint n’ Sip! Transform your black canvas into the majestic snowy owl with white paint and simple techniques! Karen Mazzoline will provide the materials and instruction, so bring a friend and come paint with us!

Class Fee: $40.00 per person, all materials included.

To register, call 906-484-1333 or CLICK HERE to register online.

Photo by Sue Bakkila
NEW EVENT!
Solar Lantern Lit Hike through the Derby Preserve
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
1308 West Club Road, Cedarville, MI 49719

Sponsored by Woods & Waters and Little Traverse Conservancy

Step into the quiet magic of winter with a self-paced, solar-lit hike through the 1.5 mile serene trails of the William B. Derby Preserve. As part of the Snowy Owl Festival, this nighttime walk invites you to experience the preserve in a way few ever do—beneath the gentle glow of solar lights, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the winter woods.
While spotting a snowy owl is unlikely, the evening may bring the hoots and calls of other local owl species echoing through the trees. Move at your own pace, take in the crisp air, and enjoy the unique beauty of Cedarville’s natural landscape after dark.
Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil winter adventure. Dress warmly, bring a flashlight if you wish, and prepare for a memorable night on the trail.
No registration required—just join us and enjoy the glow!

Sunday, February 8, 2026
Snowy Owl Winter Birdwatching Tour
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Join us for an exhilarating Snowy Owl and Winter Birdwatching Tour, where you’ll embark on a guided adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Eastern Upper Peninsula! Under the expert guidance of avid birdwatcher and wildlife photographer Joe Kwasniewski, you will carpool to various prime birding locations, to view the elusive snowy owl and other enchanting winter birds that inhabit this beautiful region. Experience the thrill of spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat as you learn about their behaviors and habitats from Joe, who will share his wealth of knowledge and passion for birdwatching. This tour is limited to minimize roadside traffic and provide an intimate and personal experience, allowing for plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photographs. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with nature and fellow bird enthusiasts! Secure your spot for just $40 per person and get ready for an unforgettable morning of winter birdwatching. To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.

Visiting the area?
Check out the Les Cheneaux Area Chamber of Commerce website for lodging and dining information.
https://lescheneaux.net/lodging

Be sure to check out these Night Owl Specials at local restaurants and bars
in the Les Cheneaux area while enjoying the Snowy Owl Festival!

Thank you to our event sponsors:

Paint & Sip: Snowy Owl
2026-02-07 17:00 - 19:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Paint n’ Sip: Snowy Owl
Saturday, February 7 • 5:00-7:00 pm
Come and take part in the Snowy Owl Festival’s Paint n’ Sip! Transform your black canvas into the majestic snowy owl with white paint and simple techniques! Karen Mazzoline will provide the materials and instruction, so bring a friend and come paint with us!

Class Fee: $40.00 per person, all materials included.

To register, call 906-484-1333 or CLICK HERE to register online.

Solar Lantern Lit Hike through the Derby Preserve
2026-02-07 18:30 - 20:30 | Derby Preserve, Cedarville, mi, 1308 West Club Road, Cedarville, MI, 49719, United States
Solar Lantern Lit Hike through the Derby Preserve
Saturday, February 7, 2025
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM1308 West Club Road, Cedarville, MI 49719
Step into the quiet magic of winter with a self-paced, solar-lit hike through the 1.5 mile serene trails of the William B. Derby Preserve. As part of the Snowy Owl Festival, this nighttime walk invites you to experience the preserve in a way few ever do—beneath the gentle glow of solar lights, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the winter woods.

While spotting a snowy owl is unlikely, the evening may bring the hoots and calls of other local owl species echoing through the trees. Move at your own pace, take in the crisp air, and enjoy the unique beauty of Cedarville’s natural landscape after dark.

Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil winter adventure. Dress warmly, bring a flashlight if you wish, and prepare for a memorable night on the trail.

No registration required—just join us and enjoy the glow!

Sponsored by Woods & Waters and Little Traverse Conservancy
