Hessel School House Historic Tour
2026-06-17 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-24 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-01 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-08 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-22 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-05 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-12 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-19 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Detroit) and 2 more dates | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Did you know that the Hessel School House originally served as a school? Founded in 1938, the building housed students from kindergarten through fifth grade. We invite you to join us as we share stories about our alumni, teachers, and community, as well as the various roles the building has served over the years. We will also be serving the legendary Hilda Johnson peanut butter cookies.
While there is no charge to attend, donations are appreciated. Pre-registration is highly encouraged to help with planning of the tours.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at
This tour is offered weekly during the summer.

Les Cheneaux Farmers & Artisan Market
2026-06-21 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-06-28 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-07-05 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-07-12 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-07-19 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-07-26 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-08-02 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-08-09 10:00 - 14:00 and 4 more dates
The Les Cheneaux Farmers & Artisans Market takes place every Sunday at the Hessel School House. For more information or to contact the organizer of this event to be a vendor, please email them directly or visit their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LesCheneauxFarmersMarket/

Children's Book Reading, Signing & Craft with Author Suzanne Lipshaw
2026-06-30 10:00 - 12:00
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
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
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.

Jam Session
2026-07-14 14:00 - 16:00, 2026-08-11 14:00 - 16:00
Jam Sessions at Hessel School House!
Jam Sessions offer an easygoing afternoon of live music-making in a welcoming, historic setting.

Bring your favorite instrument
Sing along
Play your heart out
Or simply sit back and enjoy the music

Musicians of all levels are welcome — whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years. Not a musician? No problem! Come soak in the sounds and spend a relaxing afternoon with friends and neighbors.
All sessions are held from 2:00 – 4:00 PM.
For additional information, call Tricia Little —(906) 203-7844

Hessel School House 10th Birthday
2026-07-18 12:00 - 15:00
We are thrilled to invite you to join us in celebrating the 10th Birthday of the Hessel School House Avery Arts and Nature Learning Center.
Please join us for a day of celebration featuring cake and games on the lawn. We will also hold a special program beginning at 1:00 PM to commemorate this significant milestone.
In honor of our 10th anniversary, we invite you to consider making a financial gift to support our continued mission. The Hessel School House is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. Your generosity helps us provide vital arts and nature programming for our community.
We look forward to celebrating a decade of learning and growth with you.

Summer Bingo
2026-08-20 17:00 - 20:00
Summer Bingo Night at Hessel School House
Get ready for a fun-filled summer evening of BINGO, cash prizes, and community fun at the Hessel School House!
Join us on Thursday, August 20 for your chance to shout “BINGO!” and take home a cash prize. Bring your friends, family, and a little bit of luck for a lively night at this historic community gathering place.
Doors open at 5:00 PM
Games begin at 6:00 PM
Come early, grab a good seat, and enjoy refreshments available for purchase before and during the games.
Whether you’re a seasoned Bingo player or just looking for a fun summer night out, we’d love to see you there. Come play, win, snack, and make a night of it at Hessel School House!

Celebration of Life for Bonnie Mikkelsen
2026-08-21 13:00 - 15:00
Join us for a Celebration of Life to honor Bonnie Mikkelsen
Friday, August 21
1:00–3:00 p.m.
Hessel School House
3206 W Cedar, Hessel
The community is welcome to join family and friends as we honor Bonnie Mikkelsen’s remarkable life, share memories, and
celebrate the lasting impact she made on our community.
Bonnie will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to inspire us all.
