Hessel School House

Spring Cleanup - Volunteer Day at HSH
2025-05-02 13:00 - 16:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
🌼 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 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
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 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
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 – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
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 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
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 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
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 10 more dates | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
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 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
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.

Snowy Owl Festival
2026-02-06 08:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-07 08:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-08 08:00 - 20:00 | 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:

Snows Fest Weekend
2026-02-12 08:00 - 2026-02-15 17:00 | MI
Snowsfest 2026
Woodland Animals
February 12-15, 2026! Don’t miss out on the fun!
For complete details, visit https://lescheneaux.net/snowsfest
