Hessel School House

Les Cheneaux Farmers & Artisan Market
2023-11-26 10:00 - 14:00, 2023-12-03 10:00 - 14:00, 2023-12-10 10:00 - 14:00, 2023-12-17 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
An ever-changing array of vendors bring fresh and preserved local produce, locally raised meats, eggs, gourmet baked goods, jams and jellies, soaps, gifts, fabric art and utility products such as bags, aprons and linens, artisan crafted jewelry, birch bark frames and woodworking, and MORE.

HOURS: EVERY Sunday from May thru December from 10am – 2pm

New vendors are always welcome – please email lescheneauxfarmersmarket@gmail.com for details.

Please note that the farmers market is not coordinated by Hessel School House. They rent the space to hold their event at our location. Hours and dates are subject to change without notice. Any questions or concerns about the market should be address the “organizer” listed below. Their facebook page does a good job of alerting people to unforeseen schedule changes in the winter months.

Elves Day Out
2023-12-09 09:00 - 14:00
Elves Day Out ~ A Holiday Gift Making Workshop JUST FOR KIDS!
Saturday, December 9
Choose Your Time ~ 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM or 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Only 12 seats available per session! Register early to save your seat!
Children ages 7 and up will have an opportunity to create handmade gifts for up to 4 people. Our holiday elves (aka Volunteers) will help your child transform their holiday gift giving list into magical handmade creations! Children will work along side our elves at four different workbench stations as they make their handmade treasures, which will be wrapped and ready for gift giving, not to be opened before December 25th! Before the event, children are highly encouraged to make a list of up to four people they would like to make a gift for and some of their favorite things. This will help our volunteers determine which crafts would be suitable for your child to make for each person. Workshop Fee: $10.00 per child. Pre-registration is required. To register your child, call 906-484-1333 or register online.
While your little elves are busy making Christmas gifts, you can take this time finish up some holiday shopping or simply relax!

Holiday Tree Lighting
2023-12-09 18:00 - 19:30
The Dunn Family and Friends invite you to their 3rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting event at the Hessel School House on Saturday, December 9th beginning at 6:00 PM. The Haske Brothers will be leading us in Christmas carols as we enjoy lighting the Christmas Tree and friendly fellowship and refreshments. Santa Clause will be making a surprise appearance for the kids!
This event is put on annually by the Dunn Family to celebrate the joys of the holidays in the Les Cheneaux area. The PUBLIC IS WELCOME to attend and join in the festivities.

Aldo Leopold Festival 2024
2024-05-29 - 2024-06-02
SAVE THE DATES – May 29 – June 2, 2024
Details about this event can be found on the Aldo Leopold Festival website at https://www.aldoleopoldfestival.org/

3rd Annual Arts & Crafts Supply Swap
2024-10-12 10:00 - 12:00
In time for the holiday crafting and gift making!
Join us at Hessel School House, Saturday, October from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Swappers must bring their own bags for the supplies they would like to take. You may take as much or as little as you want whether you donated items or not. Swappers are invited to make a $10 donation to support Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center programs.
When the Swap ends, our volunteers will pack up any remaining supplies and save them for the next swap, use them for future classes, or donate them. Donated items must be in good, usable condition. Questions? Call Hessel School House 906-484-1333

PRIOR TO SWAP MEET
SUPPLY DROP-OFF DATES/TIMES
Tuesday, October 8 thru Thursday, October 10
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (or by appointment)
At Hessel School House
Local artists and crafters are invited to gather up your surplus of arts and crafts supplies in good, clean, usable condition that you no longer use or want. Supplies may include, but are not limited to fabric, thread, ribbon, sewing notions, buttons, patterns, crafting books, scrapbook supplies, adhesives, painting supplies, embroidery hoops & floss, yarn, crochet hooks, knitting needles, beads and beading supplies. (Please no aerosols or food containers.)
Drop off your items at the Hessel School House Tuesday, October 8 thru Thursday, October 10 from 9 AM – 3 PM. If you are unable to drop them off during that time, please call Hessel School House to make alternate drop-off arrangements. When you arrive, the staff will quickly look through the items to ensure they are swap worthy, usable items. Please bring your supplies in cardboard boxes or plastic bags that you do not need returned.
Those who contribute items you will receive a ticket to enter the Arts & Crafts Supply Swap on Saturday, October 12 a full 10 minutes early for first crack at the loot! Doors will open to the public promptly at 10:00 AM.

Merry Makers: Make & Take Event
2024-12-14 10:00 - 14:00
🎉 **Join Us for the Merry Makers Event!** 🎉
Get ready for a festive day of creativity and fun at our Merry Makers event! Bring the whole family and dive into a world of crafting as we celebrate the holiday season together. Enjoy a variety of Make and Take crafts suitable for all ages, including holiday ornaments, charming decor items, unique greeting cards, and so much more!
**Date:** December 14
**Time:** 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Drop-In any time for as long as you like!
**Location:** Hessel School House
Everything you need will be provided, so just bring your holiday spirit! Crafting is by donation, making this our special gift to the community during the Annual Shop Hop event. Don’t miss this chance to create lasting memories with your loved ones while spreading holiday cheer! We can’t wait to see you there! 🎨✨

Snowy Owl Festival
2025-01-31 09:00 - 21:00
Friday, January 31 – Sunday, February 2, 2025 – ONLY A FEW TICKETS LEFT! Waiting list call 906-484-1333.
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.

Friday, January 31
EYES ON THE SKIES:
Insights and Experiences from Two Decades of Owl Banding at Whitefish Point Observatory
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Join Chris Neri and Nova Mackentley, founders of Friends of Whitefish Point, renowned wildlife photographers, and field biologists, for an engaging presentation. With nearly 20 years of experience banding migrating owls for the Whitefish Point Observatory, 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. For more information and to register for this event, CLICK HERE.

Photography will be available for sale in our gallery during the festival and the month of February with a portion of sales benefitting Friends of Whitefish Point and the Hessel School House. Learn more about this new organization at https://www.friendsofwp.org.

Saturday, February 1
Snowy Owl Winter Birdwatching Tour – 2 sessions available!
8:00 AM – Noon OR 1:00 – 5:00 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’ll be bussed to various prime birding locations, all while keeping an eye out for 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. With tours limited to just 20 people, you’ll enjoy an intimate and personal experience, allowing for plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories. 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 day of winter birdwatching. Book your adventure today! SATURDAY MORNING and SATURDAY AFTERNOON.

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! 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. $5.00 per person.

Due to popularity last year, this presentation is offered twice on Saturday at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Choose the morning or afternoon presentation.

Sunday, February 2
Snowy Owl Winter Birdwatching Tour
8:00 AM – Noon
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. Register today!

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

SPONSORED BY:

Snowy Owl Festival
2025-02-01 08:00 - 17:00
Friday, January 31 – Sunday, February 2, 2024 –ONLY A FEW TICKETS LEFT! Waiting list call 906-484-1333.
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.

Friday, January 31
EYES ON THE SKIES:
Insights and Experiences from Two Decades of Owl Banding at Whitefish Point Observatory
7:00 – 8:30 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 for the Whitefish Point Observatory, 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. For more information, CLICK HERE.

Saturday, February 1
Snowy Owl Winter Birdwatching Tour – 2 sessions available!
8:00 AM – Noon OR 1:00 – 5:00 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’ll be bussed to various prime birding locations, all while keeping an eye out for 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. With tours limited to just 20 people, you’ll enjoy an intimate and personal experience, allowing for plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories. 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 day of winter birdwatching. Book your adventure today! SATURDAY MORNING and SATURDAY AFTERNOON.

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! 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. $5.00 per person.

Due to popularity last year, this presentation is offered twice on Saturday at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Choose the morning or afternoon presentation.

Sunday, February 2
Snowy Owl Winter Birdwatching Tour
8:00 AM – Noon
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. Register today!

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

SPONSORED BY:

Puzzle-Palooza Party
2025-03-15 13:00 - 16:00
Jigsaw Puzzle Palooza Party
Saturday, March 15, 2024
Put your puzzle-solving skills to the test at our Irish-themed Puzzle-Palooza Party! Gather your team of four or join others for an afternoon of friendly competition and fun. See who can assemble a jigsaw puzzle the fastest while enjoying light refreshments and beverages. Sign up with a team of four, or we’ll happily pair you with fellow puzzle enthusiasts. Feeling lucky? We have a $100 cash prize for the first-place team! Join us for a great time, a chance to win fun prizes, and support a wonderful cause. This event sold out last time, so register early to avoid missing out on the fun! To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=17553

Spring Cleanup - Volunteer Day at HSH
2025-05-02 13:00 - 16:00
🌼 Volunteer Spring Cleanup at the Hessel School House
Friday, May 2 | 1:00–4:00 PM
As the snow melts and the garden beds stir to life, it’s time to get the Hessel School House ready for another season of arts, nature, and community! Join us for a cheerful and productive Volunteer Spring Cleanup Day on Friday, May 2 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM.
Whether you’re happiest with a rake in hand or a dust cloth at the ready, there’s a job for everyone—indoors or out! Help us freshen up the School House by dusting and washing windows, tidying up classrooms, spreading wood chips along the Storybook Trail, maintaining the pollinator garden, setting out patio furniture, and more.
It’s a great way to give back, connect with neighbors, and lend a hand in a place that brings joy to so many. Volunteers can view a list of chore descriptions and select tasks based on comfort level and ability. We’ll supply the tools and good vibes—all we need is you!
Volunteer Application & Task Sign-Up:
https://www.eventeny.com/events/volunteer/application/?id=10199

Aldo Leopold Festival
2025-05-28 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-05-29 05:30 - 2025-06-01 12:00
The Hessel Schools House welcomes you to celebrate the legacy of Aldo Leopold — one of America’s most influential naturalists — during our 10th Annual Aldo Leopold Festival, May 28th – June 1st, 2025. Activities include paddling excursions, orchid and wildflower tours, birding trips, presentations, and many other nature-based activities. Experience the woods and water that formed Leopold’s early impressions of the natural world as we honor the mark he made on conservation and the environment.
Tickets go on sale April 1, 2025. (No foolin’).
For a complete list of events, trips, tours, and more, visit https://aldoleopoldfestival.org/

2nd Annual Upper Peninsula Writers Symposium
2025-06-21 09:30 - 15:30
Get Ready for the 2nd Annual Upper Peninsula Writers Symposium!
We are thrilled to announce the return of the Upper Peninsula Writers Symposium, set to take place at the historic Hessel School House on Saturday, June 21, 2025! This year’s event promises to be even more enriching, featuring an array of engaging breakout sessions designed to ignite inspiration in aspiring authors and seasoned veterans alike. Whether you’re looking to hone your craft, navigate the challenges of writing, or simply connect with fellow literary enthusiasts, this symposium is the perfect opportunity to elevate your writing journey.
This year’s keynote address is by bestselling author Sue Harrison. A Michigan native, Sue is the acclaimed author of seven bestselling novels, including “Mother Earth Father Sky”, “My Sister the Moon, and Brother Wind”, which comprise the celebrated Ivory Carver Trilogy. Her latest work, “The Midwife’s Touch”, released in February 2023, has been an Amazon bestseller in two categories. Sue’s meticulous research and immersive storytelling have captivated readers worldwide, transporting them to richly detailed historical settings. Join us as she shares insights from her writing journey.
Attendees will choose three of the following breakout sessions:

Self-Publishing 101: From Manuscript to Marketplace with Debbie Frontiera
The Power of Less: Crafting Concise, Authentic Poetry with Ellen Lord
Getting Started with Audibooks with Brandy Thomas
The Power of Setting: Building Worlds Readers Want to Live In with Joseph D. Haske
How to Shoot, Write & Self-Publish Your Photo Book with Wayne Pope
AI for Authors: Writing Smarter, Not Harder with Alpha Vagnetti

Featured Lunch Topic: AI & the Future of Writing: Friend, Foe, or Co-Author?” – a Panel Discussion
Tickets are $65.00 per person
Ticket includes: Keynote address by Sue Harrison, three highly informative breakout sessions, lunch and refreshments throughout the day, and panel discussion.
Don’t miss your opportunity to connect with fellow writers and leave inspired to keep writing! Registration is limited, so register early to avoid disappointment.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18266

Boat Show Parking
2025-08-09 08:00 - 16:00
Hessel School House offers parking for the Annual Antique Wooden Boat Show for a suggested $10 donation. Funds raised go towards arts and nature programming that inspire and enrich the lives of our community.

LCAC Artist Reception
2025-08-22 17:00 - 19:00
The 2025 Community Art Exhibit
August 2nd – 28th
Reception is Friday, August 22 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
at Hessel School House
For more information about this event, visit https://lescheneauxartscouncil.org/community-art-exhibition-2025

4th Annual Arts & Crafts Supply Swap
2025-08-30 10:00 - 12:00
A little earlier than usual this year…
Join us at Hessel School House, Saturday, August 30 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM for the 4th Annual Arts & Crafts Supply Swap! Swappers must bring their own bags for the supplies they would like to take. You may take as much or as little as you want whether you donated items or not. Swappers are invited to make a $10 donation to support Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center programs.
When the Swap ends, our volunteers will pack up any remaining supplies and save them for the next swap, use them for future classes, or donate them. Donated items MUST be in good, clean, usable condition. To eliminate the volume of waste we have to throw away, all items will be inspected before they are accepted for the swap. Questions? Call Hessel School House 906-484-1333.

PRIOR TO SWAP MEET
SUPPLY DROP-OFF DATES/TIMES
Tuesday, August 26 thru Friday, August 29, 2025
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (or by appointment)
at Hessel School House
Local artists and crafters are invited to gather up your surplus of arts and crafts supplies in good, clean, usable condition that you no longer use or want. Supplies may include, but are not limited to fabric, thread, ribbon, sewing notions, buttons, patterns, crafting books, scrapbook supplies, adhesives, painting supplies, embroidery hoops & floss, yarn, crochet hooks, knitting needles, beads and beading supplies. (Please no aerosols or food containers.)
Drop off your items at the Hessel School House Tuesday, August 26 thru Friday, August 29, 2025 from 9 AM – 3 PM. If you are unable to drop them off during that time, please call Hessel School House to make alternate drop-off arrangements. When you arrive, the staff will quickly look through the items to ensure they are swap worthy, usable items. We WILL NOT accept unclean, unusable items. Please bring your supplies in cardboard boxes or bags that you do not need returned.
Those who contribute items you will receive a ticket to enter the Arts & Crafts Supply Swap on Saturday, August 30 ahead of all other attendees so they first crack at the loot! Ticket holders must be in line prior to the doors opening at 10:00 AM. Doors will open to the public promptly at 10:00 AM.

BINGO at Hessel School House
2025-10-02 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-10-09 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-10-16 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-10-23 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-10-30 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-11-06 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-11-13 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-11-20 18:00 - 20:30 and 2 more dates
Thursdays – October thru Mid May.
Get ready to have a blast while supporting a great cause! The Hessel School House weekly Bingo Fundraiser promises an entertaining night filled with laughter, friendly competition, and cash prizes. Bring your friends, family, and colleagues along to enjoy the thrill of shouting “Bingo”. Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this fun-filled evening. Be sure to arrive early to secure your spot and grab some snacks, pop, and free popcorn. Doors open at 5:00 PM, games start at 6:00 PM.
This is an adults only event. Please no children or babies.
Michigan License #A22504
Concerned about the weather? Want to see if we will be hosting bingo or not? CALL THE BINGO HOTLINE! This free and simple service is updated every Thursday by 10:00 am to let you know if we will be playing bingo that night. Just listen to the recording. It’s that easy!

Halloween Carnival
2025-10-25 13:00 - 15:00
Les Cheneaux Area children in pre-school thru 5th Grade are welcome to join us for a spooktacular Halloween Carnival at the Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center! Get ready for a frightfully fun afternoon filled with thrilling games and delicious treats. We will even have a special book on the Story Book Trail! Dress up in your most boo-tiful costumes and be prepared for a ghoulishly good time. There will be prizes (and surprises) for everyone. Don’t miss out on this fang-tastic family friendly event!

No charge to attend thanks to financial support from community support from individuals and businesses.
