Beach Landscape Tapestry Weaving
2025-07-11 09:30 - 13:30, 2025-07-18 09:30 - 13:30 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Beach Landscape Tapestry Weaving
Fridays, July 11 & 18 | 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Capture the beauty of the natural world in woven form during this two-session workshop with fiber artist Cheryl Gordon. Designed for beginners and experienced weavers alike, this class introduces a variety of tapestry weaving techniques to help you create your own landscape inspired textile art.
Working on pre-warped looms to jump-start the process, students will explore texture, color blending, and composition while learning to translate natural coastal scenery into expressive woven pieces.
The class is limited to eight students ensuring you receive individualized instruction in a casual atmosphere. All materials—including yarn, tools, and a loom to use during class—are provided, and students will leave with a completed small tapestry and the skills to continue weaving on their own.
Open to adults and teens 16+. Space is limited to 8 —register early to reserve your loom!
Class Fee: $110.00
To reserve your spot call 906-484-1333 or register online.

Capturing Nature Through the Lens: A Full-Day Photography Workshop with Wayne Pope
2025-07-12 10:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Capturing Nature Through the Lens: A Photography Workshop with Wayne Pope
Saturday, July 12, 2025
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center
Sharpen your photography skills and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world with Wayne Pope, a professional nature photographer and adjunct faculty member at Lansing Community College, where he teaches photography. This full-day workshop is designed for both beginners and experienced photographers looking to refine their skills. This hands-on session will guide participants through the art of capturing the beauty of the natural world—whether using a digital camera or smartphone.
What to Expect:
Classroom Learning: Explore the fundamentals of photography, including camera types, composition techniques, depth of field, and lighting to elevate your nature shots.
Field Experience: Put your knowledge into action with a guided photo session at a local nature preserve, where Wayne will offer expert tips on framing, perspective, and capturing wildlife and landscapes in real time.
Lunch Provided: Enjoy a break and connect with fellow nature enthusiasts over a provided meal.
With years of experience as an educator and photographer, Wayne brings expert insights and personalized guidance to help you see nature through a new lens—whether you’re using a digital camera or smartphone.
What to Bring:
A digital camera or smartphone with camera capabilities, comfortable walking shoes, and a passion for nature photography!
Limited spots available—register today to secure your place!
Class Fee: $50 per person, includes full day of instruction, lunch and refreshments.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online.
This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District.
__________________________
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR:
Wayne Pope – As a college photography instructor, I help students reach their career goals. My teaching slogan is, “Keeping Your Interests At Heart.” As a business owner of Pope Photo Tours, I provide quality photo safaris that are safe, afforable and fun. As a photo workshop presenter, I provide easy-to-understand, visually-oriented lectures and one-to-one instruction to students in the field.
I have self-published two books: “Birds of Michigan” and “My Favorite Facebook Photos”. I was trained as a Chinese-Mandarin interpreter in the U.S. Army and have a minor degree in Chinese Language from MSU. As a photojournalist, I write and photograph articles for The Lansing State Journal, Michigan-Out-Of-Doors, Michigan Living and Michigan Audubon Society magazines. I am a poet and have been published in Washington Square Review.

Nature Journaling: The Seasonal Round
2025-07-16 13:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-17 13:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
GUEST ARTIST: Jen Wozniak – Artist, Educator, and Nature Journaling Enthusiast
Nature Journaling: The Seasonal Round
Two Day Workshop – July 16 & 17 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Step into the rhythm of the seasons with artist and educator Jen Wozniak in this inspiring two-day workshop focused on The Seasonal Round—a nature journaling practice rooted in the study of phenology, or the seasonal changes in plants and animals throughout the year.
In this immersive, hands-on class, Jen will guide participants in starting or deepening their own “Perpetual Nature Journal,” a place-specific, multi-year journal that tracks natural patterns over time. Through observation, drawing, writing, and discussion, participants will learn how to document the subtle and surprising shifts in the environment—while cultivating a greater sense of connection, belonging, and stewardship for the land they inhabit.
Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, Jen’s approach blends scientific inquiry with creative expression to help you observe the world with fresh eyes. With her encouraging, joy-driven style, she helps participants set aside perfectionism and reconnect with the natural world through play, curiosity, and mindfulness. Join us for this engaging and reflective workshop, and leave with tools and inspiration to continue your journaling practice throughout the seasons—and for years to come.
All materials are provided, but feel free to bring your own colored pencils, markers, watercolors, and notebook if you choose. Open to adults and teens 13+. Space is limited—register early!
Thanks to a grant from the Chippewa Luce Mackinaw Conservation District this class is now offered at a discounted rate. Regular price $120 per student. NOW only $80 per student. Take advantage of this generous support from our local partner and join us for this amazing workshop.
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ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: Jen Wozniak – Artist, Educator, and Nature Journaling Enthusiast Jen Wozniak is an artist, educator, and avid observer of the natural world whose work bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and creative expression. She teaches Art and Field Studies at Springwater Environmental Sciences School in Oregon, where she encourages students to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and a deep connection to nature. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Printmaking from the Pacific Northwest College of Art, Jen’s artistic foundation is rooted in detailed observation and storytelling through imagery. However, she considers her greatest expertise to be her lifelong practice of approaching the natural world with beginner’s awe—a perspective that keeps her learning and discovering every day.
Jen’s passion for nature journaling has led her to develop a method of artistic engagement that helps both children and adults overcome self-judgment. Through her workshops, she invites participants to reconnect with the natural world through play, curiosity, and an open heart, bypassing the pressures of perfection to embrace the joy of observing and documenting the world around them. Her approach fosters a sense of wonder, mindfulness, and personal expression, transforming nature journaling into a tool for both scientific discovery and creative exploration.
Whether marveling at the delicate structure of a feather, the intricate gills of a fungus, or the shifting colors of a sunset, Jen believes that every observation is an opportunity for learning and connection. Through her teaching, she continues to inspire others to see nature—and themselves—through fresh eyes, encouraging deeper appreciation and engagement with the landscapes we inhabit.
Examples of Jen’s Nature Journaling

Watercolor Refresher (2 day class)
2025-07-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Wednesdays, July 9 and July 23
10:00 PM – 12:00 PM
Watercolor Refresher Workshop
Brush up on your watercolor skills by attending our watercolor refresher class! Through quick exercises, fun activities, and creative projects, build your skill set and feel more confident in working with this medium. This is a two-week session, so you will have the opportunity to practice what you have learned. Artist Karen Mazzoline will offer different painting styles, techniques, and types of watercolor paints during the course. Have a specific technique you would like to learn? Karen will contact you before class starts to receive any questions or topics you would like to cover and will include them in the sessions! All materials will be provided, but if you would rather use your own watercolor paints, feel free to bring them along!
Class Size is limited. $55 per student. Register today by calling 906-484-1333 or register online.

CANCELLED: Recycled & Repurposed Jewelry
2025-07-23 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Recycled & Repurposed Jewelry
For Ages 10–16
Wednesday, July 23 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Turn trash into treasure and let your creativity shine! In this hands-on class with artist Marissa Wissner, young makers will learn how to transform recycled and repurposed materials into one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces that reflect their personal style. From funky earrings to statement necklaces, students will explore jewelry-making techniques and gain confidence using real tools in a fun, supportive environment.
All materials and tools are provided—just bring your imagination!
✨ Eco-friendly fun
✨ Learn new skills
✨ Take home your wearable art
Perfect for creative minds who love fashion, design, or simply making something cool out of the unexpected!
Class fee: $20 per student.

Hard & Soft Pastels with artist Steve Seebohm
2025-07-25 09:30 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
HARD & SOFT PASTEL WORKSHOP
with Guest Artist Steve Seebohm
Friday, July 25, 2025 I 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Steve is excited to offer this one-day workshop in the use of hard & soft pastels for drawing and painting. You will learn about the unique nature of working with pastels, surfaces available for best results, the ability to blend, manipulate and erase the medium, limitations of use and the variety of fixatives available for making your work more permanent & the unique nature of each.
You will get hands-on experience working with hard & soft pastels, learn which papers are appropriate for use, the variety of sanded surfaces available, and prep materials to make your own sanded paper & boards. You will learn the potential and challenges of layering and blending to produce unique effects, minimizing the use of white and black for richer paintings, and which fixatives are best for securing your artwork for years to come.
Materials provided will include blank drawing paper for practice working with pastels & sanded paper for developing a finished piece. Photo reference of local & regional images will be available to work from in creating your own personal memory. Hard & soft pastels will also be provided along with blending sticks, sanding pads, erasers, gloves and fixative.
Whether you’re interested in producing a popular landscape, a fantasy piece or something more abstract, experimentation with this medium is encouraged for those who might desire a fun, creative outlet and wonderful means for producing colorful art! Those in need will be provided with drawing, perspective and composition direction to help with their progress. Individuals of all levels are welcome.
Class Fee: $130
Class space is limited for this special art class. To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18873&action=ticket&action_ticket=33245

This is a full-day workshop Students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch. A fridge and microwave are available if needed. Coffee, tea and bottled water available.

______________________
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
STEVE SEEBOHM
Steve is a local artist who loves the outdoors & nature and has been passionate about the arts since he started drawing the small fish, snakes and frogs he caught growing up. Summers during and after high school he began painting houses in northern New Jersey to put himself through Parson’s School of Design. As an illustration student in the pre-digital/pre-cell phone age, he spent 20 hours a week at figure drawing, along
with learning classical skills in painting, printing making, photography, composition, perspective and layout.
After graduating from college he applied his newly acquired skills to the preservation of historic finishes and decorative painting, including design of a new decorative finishes campaign for the Michigan Governors’ ceremonial office in The State Capitol. During his years in preservation Steve continued to take advantage of figure drawing sessions wherever he traveled for work and continued to play with a variety of art media that fit his lifestyle.
Examples of Steve’s Work:

Fabric Art with Jeans
2025-08-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Fabric Art with Jeans (Adults)Wednesday, August 6 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Give your old denim new life in this fun and funky art class with artist Marissa Wissner! Using simple stitching, layering, and design techniques, you’ll transform repurposed blue jeans into a one-of-a-kind piece of textile art.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafter, this relaxed, hands-on session is a great way to get creative, upcycle, and leave with something uniquely you.
All materials and tools are provided, but feel free to bring a favorite pair of jeans to personalize your project even more.
Stitch. Create. Repurpose.Art never looked so good in denim!
Class Fee: $40
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18873&action=ticket&action_ticket=33232

CANCELLED - Hard & Soft Pastel Workshop with Guest Artist Steve Seebohm
2025-08-16 09:30 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
CANCELLED – HARD & SOFT PASTEL WORKSHOP with Guest Artist Steve Seebohm
Saturday, August 16, 2025 I 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Steve is excited to offer this one-day workshop in the use of hard & soft pastels for drawing and painting. You will learn about the unique nature of working with pastels, surfaces available for best results, the ability to blend, manipulate and erase the medium, limitations of use and the variety of fixatives available for making your work more permanent & the unique nature of each.
You will get hands-on experience working with hard & soft pastels, learn which papers are appropriate for use, the variety of sanded surfaces available, and prep materials to make your own sanded paper & boards. You will learn the potential and challenges of layering and blending to produce unique effects, minimizing the use of white and black for richer paintings, and which fixatives are best for securing your artwork for years to come.
Materials provided will include blank drawing paper for practice working with pastels & sanded paper for developing a finished piece. Photo reference of local & regional images will be available to work from in creating your own personal memory. Hard & soft pastels will also be provided along with blending sticks, sanding pads, erasers, gloves and fixative.
Whether you’re interested in producing a popular landscape, a fantasy piece or something more abstract, experimentation with this medium is encouraged for those who might desire a fun, creative outlet and wonderful means for producing colorful art! Those in need will be provided with drawing, perspective and composition direction to help with their progress. Individuals of all levels are welcome.
Class Fee: $130
Class space is limited for this special art class.

This is a full-day workshop. Students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch. A fridge and microwave are available if needed. Coffee, tea and bottled water available.
______________________

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR STEVE SEEBOHM Steve is a local artist who loves the outdoors & nature and has been passionate about the arts since he started drawing the small fish, snakes and frogs he caught growing up. Summers during and after high school he began painting houses in northern New Jersey to put himself through Parson’s School of Design. As an illustration student in the pre-digital/pre-cell phone age, he spent 20 hours a week at figure drawing, along with learning classical skills in painting, printing making, photography, composition, perspective and layout.
After graduating from college he applied his newly acquired skills to the preservation of historic finishes and decorative painting, including design of a new decorative finishes campaign for the Michigan Governors’ ceremonial office in The State Capitol. During his years in preservation Steve continued to take advantage of figure drawing sessions wherever he traveled for work and continued to play with a variety of art media that fit his lifestyle.
Examples of Steve’s Work:

Drawing Refresher (2 Session Class)
2025-08-20 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-08-27 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
DRAWING REFRESHER CLASS
TWO DAY CLASS – Wednesdays, August 20 and 27 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Build your drawing “muscle” by attending Hessel School House’s Drawing Refresher Class! In this two-week session, learn about the tools used to draw values, shapes, textures, and perspective. Artist Karen Mazzoline will use starter exercises, activities, and projects to help you develop your drawing skillset! Our focus will be on the elements of art and the principles of design as we draw people, land and seascapes, animals, objects, and places. We will also be working with different drawing media (marker, ink, colored pencil). If you have a specific question or topic you would like discussed during the session, you will be given the opportunity to share that through email before the session begins.

Materials and tools will be provided by the instructor, but if you have your own sketch books and pencils, feel free to bring them to class! This class is for adults and teens 16+.

Class fee: $55

To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online.

Flora & Fungi Discovery Walk
2025-09-20 10:00 - 13:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Ever wanted to learn how to identify and safely forage wild mushrooms, but didn’t know where to start? Interested in learning about forest plants and wildflowers? Then this event is for you! Logan Ferguson will lead you on a guided walk and mushroom foray at a nearby location. We will meet at the Hessel School House to carpool to the area.
No Charge to attend.
RSVP is required and registration is limited to the first 24 people. To reserve your ticket, got to

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=19971&action=ticket&action_ticket=40582
or call 906-484-1333.

* Hiking shoes or boots recommended.
* Walk will be light to moderate terrain.
This event is provided in partnership with the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District.

CANCELLED - UPCYCLE: Fall Gnomes
2025-10-04 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
UPCYCLE: Fall Gnomes
Add some whimsy to your fall decor by creating your own upcycled gnome! Using fabric scraps, buttons, and other odds and ends, artist Marissa Wissner will show you how to put these elements together to make an adorable fall themed gnome! All materials are included, so come and enjoy making fall art with others!
Class Fee: $40 per person.

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

Volunteer Work Bee at Hessel School House
2025-10-18 09:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Gather a group of friends, co-workers,or family members and join us at the Hessel School House on Satruday, October 18 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM for a volunteer work bee! Many hands will make light work in caring for the building and getting the grounds ready for the winter months. Contact us today to learn more about this exciting half-day volunteer opportunity.
If you plan to attend, please let us know so we can prepare ahead of time.
For details, contact Abbey at 906-484-1333 or email office@hesselschoolhouse.net

CANCELLED - Bangle Bracelet Weaving
2025-11-15 13:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Join us at Hessel School House for a creative and hands-on art class where you’ll learn to weave a beautiful bangle-style bracelet using small looms. Under the guidance of instructor Cheryl Gordon, participants will combine yarn, wire, and beads to craft their own unique wearable art. No experience necessary—just bring your creativity! Teens and Adults Welcome!
Class Fee: $30 per person.

The American Revolution Expereince Traveling Exhibit
2025-12-14 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-15 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-16 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-17 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-18 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-19 10:00 - 16:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
The Bawating Le Saut De Sainte Marie Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the American Battlefield Trust are excited to feature the American Revolution Experience at the Hessel School House from December 14 – 19, 2025.
The innovative pop-up exhibition includes display panels and interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology and unique artifacts and primary accounts to connect modern audiences with the people and places that shaped the birth of our nation.
The exhibit is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Admission: Free, open to the public.

For more information about the exhibit, contact:

Tammy Cruickshank
Bawating-Le Saut De Sainte Marie, DAR
bc026@centurytel.net
(906) 322-6586

American Battlefield Trust, dedicated to preserving our nation’s hallowed battlegrounds. (PRNewsfoto/American Battlefield Trust)

CANCELLED - YOUTH: Heart Nail Art
2026-01-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Heart Nail Art for Grades 5-12
Saturday, January 10, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Need an activity for a cold winter’s day? Come and learn how to make nail art! Artist Marissa Wissner will help guide you through the process of creating a unique work of art using nails and string! All materials and instruction provided, so sign up and bring a friend!

Examples of projects:

Telling the Hard Stuff: A Confessional Poetry Workshop with Ellen Lord
2026-01-17 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Telling the Hard Stuff: A Confessional Poetry Workshop with Ellen Lord

Saturday, January 17, 2026
1:00 -3:00 PM

Confessional poetry asks us to speak the truths we often keep hidden. In this two‑hour workshop, we’ll explore how vulnerability becomes art, how the “hard stuff” transforms into language that resonates, and how craft supports courage. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space to write the poems that demand to be written. This class includes an autographed copy of Ellen Lord’s latest book VIGIL.

Whether you write poems on the page or songs for the stage, this workshop welcomes artists who turn lived experience into works of written art. Poets and songwriters alike will find tools for shaping raw emotion into work that connects and endures.

Class Fee: $40.00. Includes a signed copy of Ellen Lord’s latest book VIGIL.

To Register: Call 906-484-1333 or CLICK HERE to register online.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER:
Ellen Lord began writing as a kid, first stirred to poetry by Edgar Allen Poe’s raven and various morbid nursery rhymes. She is inspired by forays in nature, along with feasts and foibles of the human condition. She was raised in the wilds of the Upper Peninsula and often returns to her ancestral home. She is a behavioral health therapist, specializing in addiction and trauma.

Scholarship discounts are available. Call 906-484-1333 for details if finances are an impeding you from attending this workshop. A limited number of discount tickets are available for teens and low income participants.

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

CANCELLED - Acrylic Paint Pouring
2026-02-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Acrylic Paint Pouring
Saturday, February 21, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Want to learn a cool painting technique? Spend the morning with artist Karen Mazzoline learning the art of paint pouring! Using a special kind of acrylic paint, create beautiful abstract works by manipulating the paint on canvas!
Class Fee: $25.00, includes all materials.
Youth Ages: 5th – 12th grades
Due to lack of registrations, this class has been cancelled.

Wire Wrapping
2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Wire Wrapping
Saturday, February 21, 2026
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Learn the Art of wire wrapping at Hessel School House! Using natural elements, discover how to use various wrapping techniques with wire! Artist Marissa Wissner will guide you through the wrapping process!

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

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=25898&action=ticket&action_ticket=47117
