CANCELLED - Young Weavers - Weave a Pillow
2025-04-26 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Young Weavers Program
Saturdays, April 19 & 26, 2025
10:00 am-12:00 pm

Hey young artists! Have you ever wanted to try weaving? Now’s your chance! Join us for Young Weavers, a fun and hands-on class where you’ll learn to weave on a small loom and create your very own colorful masterpiece. Best of all—you can turn your weaving into a pillow to take home! Led by artist Kathy Thomas, this two-part Saturday morning workshop is perfect for kids ages 8-12 who love to get creative. No experience? No problem! Kathy will guide you through the process step by step. ?

What You’ll Do:
✅ Learn basic weaving techniques
✅ Experiment with different colors and textures
✅ Weave a one-of-a-kind design
✅ Turn your finished piece into a cozy pillow!

All materials are provided—just bring your imagination!

Cost: $30
(Discounted thanks to a grant from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council)

To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online. Space is limited, so sign up today and get ready to weave, create, and have fun!

Mommy & Me Painting Class
2025-05-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Mommy & Me Painting Class
🦋🌸 Create a Beautiful Memory Together! 🌸🦋
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a special Mommy & Me painting class at the Hessel School House! Join artist Karen Mazzoline for a fun and creative session where you and your child will each paint your own canvas—when placed side by side, your paintings will come together to form a stunning image of a butterflies resting on flowers.
No experience is needed—just bring your creativity and enjoy a morning of laughter, bonding, and artistic fun! (This class is appropriate for a parent and child from 5 to 15 years old.)
📅 Date: Saturday, May 3
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Hessel School House
💲 Cost: $45 per pair (includes all materials)
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18819&action=ticket&action_ticket=31501
Spaces are limited—register now and make this Mother’s Day extra special! 💕🎨

Aldo Leopold Festival
2025-05-28 09:00 - 17:00 | 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/

Drama Camp for Kids
2025-06-24 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-06-25 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-06-26 14:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Young Actors Drama Camp

Three-Day Camp: Tuesday – Thursday, June 24, 25 & 26 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM at the Hessel School House

Do you have a young storyteller, performer, or imaginative thinker at home? Nurture their creativity this summer with our three-day drama camp designed especially for kids ages 6–11!

Led by experienced directors Karen Mazzoline and Marissa Wissner, this engaging camp introduces children to the fundamentals of theater through fun games, group activities, and short skits inspired by timeless stories, local legends, and daring adventures. Campers will explore voice, movement, character building, and teamwork in a positive and supportive environment.

The final day of camp features a special performance for family and friends, where students will showcase their new skills and celebrate all they’ve learned!

A detailed schedule and what-to-bring list will be emailed to participants prior to the start of camp.

Give your child the opportunity to grow in confidence, build friendships, and discover the magic of the stage!

Workshop Fee: $80/student.
Limited space available.

To register your youngster, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18869&action=ticket&action_ticket=33221

Painting with Nature
2025-07-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Wednesday, July 9 – 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Painting with Nature
Spend the afternoon painting with nature! With guidance from artist Marissa Wissner, young people ages 6-11 years old will learn how to utilize needles, tree bark, and other elements of nature to paint a stunning work of art! All materials will be provided but be dressed to take a walk outside for gathering your nature finds!
Space is limited. To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=19963&action=ticket&action_ticket=33226

This class is offered with support from the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District.

CANCELLED - Kid's Boat Painting Class
2025-08-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Due to a lack of registrations, this event has been cancelled.
Kid’s Boat Painting Class
Wednesday, August 6 | 1:00 – 3:00 PM
For Ages 6–11
Ahoy, young artists! Get ready to set sail just in time for the Hessel Wooden Boat Show with this fun, hands-on boat painting class. Kids will build and decorate their very own sailboats using a mix of creative and unexpected materials.
With step-by-step guidance from artist Marissa Wissner, every child will leave with a colorful, one-of-a-kind boat and a big sense of accomplishment—no experience needed and all supplies provided.
Perfect for budding builders, painters, and little ones who love all things nautical!
⚓ Spots fill fast—don’t miss the boat!
Class Fee: $20 per child.

CANCELLED - YOUTH: Felt Jack o'lantern Bags
2025-10-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Youth: Felt Jack o’lantern Bags
Saturday, October 4 – 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Learn some basic sewing skills by creating your very own Jack-o-lantern bag! Artist Marissa Wissner will guide you through the process of sewing and gluing your felted work of art! Choose your bag color and type of pumpkin face! All materials will be provided, so come and enjoy the fun!
Class Fee: $20 per child. Includes all materials.

Due to a lack of registrations, this class has been cancelled.

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.

YOUTH: Printing with Leaves
2025-11-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Join artist Kelly Harman for a fun, hands-on exploration of nature’s beauty in this colorful class! Using fallen autumn leaves, we’ll create stunning prints while learning about color mixing in a relaxed and creative environment. This class encourages kids to notice the intricate details of leaves and experiment with vibrant colors—no drawing or painting skills required! It’s a wonderful way to embrace the fall season and discover the art of printmaking. Kids will leave with their own colorful leaf print note cards to cherish. Perfect for young artists ready to explore nature and creativity! All materials are included.
Instructor: Kelly Harmon
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Class Fee: $10/child
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=23306
This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservations District.

CANCELLED - YOUTH: Fall Leaf Pastels
2025-11-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Come and enjoy a morning of creativity! Using fall themed shapes, artist Karen Mazzoline will show you how to work with positive and negative spaces! Choose what kind of paper and materials you will use to make your own fall masterpieces! At the end of the session, participants will take home a minimum of two treasures to share with family and friends! All materials will be provided, so come join us for some fall fun!
Space is limited. $20 per student.

YOUTH: Printing with LEGOs
2025-11-15 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Unleash your creativity in this fun and interactive class! Use colorful LEGO® tiles and baseplates to design cool images, then transfer your designs onto paper to create unique prints. It’s like building with LEGO®—but on paper! You’ll experiment with patterns, colors, and textures to make your own personalized cards, envelopes, and pictures. Perfect for young artists and LEGO® fans alike, you’ll leave with a whole set of creative prints to share or keep!
Instructor: Kelly Harmon
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Class Fee: $10/child
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=23306

CANCELLED - Birch Tree Watercolor Class for Kids
2025-12-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Birch Tree Watercolor Class for Kids:
Saturday, December 20th, from 10-noon
Have fun learning how to paint a wintry birch tree scene! Artist Karen Mazzoline will demonstrate how to use the lift and resist technique in watercolor. All materials will be provided, so bring a friend and create some wintry fun together!
Class Fee: $20 per child.
This class has been cancelled.

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:

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

Book Reading & Signing with Julie Buchholtz
2026-02-28 13:00 - 14:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Book Reading & Signing with Julie Buchholtz
Saturday, February 28, 2026
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Join us for a special afternoon with author Julie Buchholtz as she reads from her second book and shares the story behind its creation. Through gentle, lyrical storytelling, Mama sings to her child of mino-bimaadiziwin—living in harmony with nature—and of following the teachings of the Seven Grandfathers. As mother and child journey through life together, they walk in the footsteps of the mothers and grandmothers who came before them, honoring tradition, love, and connection across generations.
Following the reading, Julie will be available for a book signing, and copies of the book will be available for purchase. This event is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required for planning purposes.
Come enjoy a meaningful, family-friendly hour of storytelling, reflection, and community with this heartfelt celebration of heritage and wisdom.
To save your seat(s), call 906-484-1333 or register online at

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Aanii. Boozhoo.
Hello.
Ishpiming Migizi Kwe Nidizhinikaaz
I am Julie Buchholtz or High Flying Eagle Woman.
Gnoozhekaaning Nindonjibaa
I come from the Place of the Pike.
Migizi Nidoodehm
I am Eagle clan.
I am fortunate to live along the shores of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I feel the most grounded when I am immersed in nature, especially when I stand on the earth where my ancestors walked before me. I am a proud member of the Bay Mills Tribe of Chippewa Indians.
My inaugural book, Who Am I, was published by Sleeping Bear Press/Cherry Lake Publishing and selected as a 2021 Own Voices/Own Stories Winner. Who Am I took me on a journey of self discovery, a coming home of sorts to my native roots. It is about connection to one another and to Mother Earth. Little brown-skinned girl asks her mama a question that we often ask ourselves, “Who am I?” Mama pulls her girl close and explains how she is connected to Mother Earth including the plants, the organisms, and the animals that inhabit Mother Earth. In the end, the little brown-skinned girl understands her significance and that she isn’t so little after all.
My second book, Mama’s Song serves as a prequel to Who Am I and led me further down the path of embracing my native heritage. It tells the story of the birth of the little brown-skinned baby. Mama has never felt such love before and thanks the Creator for such a gift. Mama’s Song is all about mama’s wish for her daughter to live the “good life” or mino bimaadiziwin. Readers are introduced to the Seven Grandfather Teachings of Wisdom, Love, Respect, Courage, Honesty, Humility, and Truth.

Mommy & Me: Ocean Theme Art Party
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
MOMMY AND ME OCEAN THEME ART PARTY (adult/child/teen)
Saturday, May 9th
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Come to Hessel School House with the special person in your life to create together! With the ocean as our theme, choose colors and materials to make keychains, bracelets, and painted seashells! Join artists Karen Mazzoline and Marissa Wissner as they teach you the art of designing jewelry and art! All materials, light snacks, and fun will be provided! Enjoy a morning making memories! NOTE: Ticket price is for Mom and one child (any age).
$40 per couple (Mother and child of any age).
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=29738

Aldo Leopold Festival
2026-05-27 - 2026-05-31 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Aldo Leopold Festival
May 27-31, 2026
Les Cheneaux welcomes you to celebrate the legacy of Aldo Leopold — one of America’s most influential naturalists — during our festival, May 27-31, 2026. 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.
OVER 60 tours, workshops, and lectures to enjoy during the 5-day festival! For a complete list of events, tickets, and more information, visit the festival website at https://aldoleopoldfestival.org/

Creative Arts Camp for Kids! - A 3-Part Workshop
2026-06-23 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-06-24 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-06-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Tuesday, June 23, Wednesday, June 24, and Thursday, June 25
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Ages 6 – 11
Do you love art, music, and drama? We have an opportunity for you at Hessel School House! This three-day camp explores visual arts, music, and theatre through activities, games, and fun projects! Learn the basics of drama, how to move and play music, and create some awesome art with teachers Karen Mazzoline and Marissa Wissner! Each day will explore a different theme that focuses on fun, creativity, and adventure!
Class Fee: $60.00
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=30156

Children's Book Reading, Signing & Craft with Author Suzanne Lipshaw
2026-06-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
NEW EVENT!
Join us for a special morning with children’s author Suzanne Jacobs Lipshaw at the Hessel School House on Tuesday, June 30, from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Suzanne will share a reading from her award-winning middle-grade novel Decoding the Moon, followed by a book signing and a hands-on craft activity inspired by the story. This free event is open to children, families, and community members of all ages.
Winner of the Fictionary Book of the Year Award, Decoding the Moon tells the heartwarming story of two brothers navigating the loss of their mother after moving to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Through rock climbing adventures, secret spy codes, and learning to understand one another, the brothers discover that love, hope, and family bonds can help them heal.
Suzanne Jacobs Lipshaw is a children’s author and recently retired educator who is passionate about inspiring young readers. In addition to Decoding the Moon, she is the author of several true-story picture books, including Rugged RAX: The Little Satellite that Could, The Super Volcano: The Hidden Hero Below Yellowstone National Park, Mighty Mahi, and I Campaigned for Ice Cream: A Boy’s Quest for Ice Cream Trucks. She enjoys speaking about writing, leadership, and how young people can make a difference in the world.
Books will be available for purchase at the event.
Event Details

Date: Tuesday, June 30
Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Location: Hessel School House
Cost: Free and open to the public

Bring the family and enjoy a memorable morning of storytelling, creativity, and fun with author Suzanne Lipshaw.

Fairy Frolic
2026-07-11 11:00 - 13:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Saturday, July 11 • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Join us for a magical walk through the woods 🌿 where live fairies await along the trail!
📖 A special storybook will be featured for the day — perfect for curious readers and fairy believers of all ages.
Free and open to the public.

A.R.K. Wildlife LIVE!
2026-07-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Saturday, July 11 • 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Step into a hands-on wildlife adventure at the Hessel School House. This engaging and family-friendly event invites curious minds of all ages to connect with nature through an up-close experience featuring LIVE ambassador animals. Presented by A.R.K. (Association of Rescue Kritters), this program showcases non-releasable wildlife ambassadors—animals that can no longer survive in the wild but now serve an important role in education. Through guided interaction and storytelling, guests will learn about each animal’s species, habitat, and the conservation challenges they face. Participants will also have the rare opportunity to explore a collection of authentic, touchable artifacts, including wings, pelts, talons, and more. These hands-on elements deepen understanding and spark curiosity, making science come alive in a memorable way.
Space is limited. Pre-registration is required.
Presentation Fee: $10 per person
To register: Call 906-484-1333 or register online.

Storybook Trail Art Class for Kids!
2026-07-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Thursday, July 16 • 10AM – 12PM
Ages 6-12
Come explore the art possibilities at Hessel School House! Using the chosen storybook trail as our theme, artist Karen Mazzoline will offer art techniques to create a unique work of art that reflects the story! Class begins with a walk through the nature trail, learning about the story and taking in the beauty of the trail. Artmaking will take place in the schoolhouse using different media and materials! Come and enjoy a fun morning of creating together!
Class Fee: $25.00
To register call 906-484-1333 or register online.

Storybook Trail Art Class (Ages 6-12)
2026-08-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Storybook Trail Art Class (Ages 6-12)
Thursday, August 13, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Come explore the art possibilities at Hessel School House! Using the chosen storybook trail as our theme, artist Karen Mazzoline will offer art techniques to create a unique work of art that reflects the story! Class begins with a walk through the nature trail, learning about the story and taking in the beauty of the trail. Art making will take place in the schoolhouse using different media and materials! Come and enjoy a fun morning of creating together!
Class Fee: $25.00
TO REGISTER: Call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=30178
