Aldo Leopold Festival
2025-05-29 05:30 - 2025-06-01 12:00 (America/Detroit) | 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/

Closed on Mondays
2025-06-02 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-06-09 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-06-16 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-06-23 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-06-30 08:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-07 08:00 - 17:00

Mahjong
2025-06-04 09:30 - 12:00, 2025-06-11 09:30 - 12:00, 2025-06-18 09:30 - 12:00, 2025-06-25 09:30 - 12:00, 2025-07-02 09:30 - 12:00, 2025-07-09 09:30 - 12:00
Join us for a friendly game of Mahjong. Games are held weekly on Wednesdays from 9:30am – 12:00 pm (June – September). Whether you are an experienced player or just a beginner, all skill levels are welcome to play. For further details or to schedule a lesson, please call Hessel School House: 906.484.1333
No registration is required. No fee to play. However, if you wish to purchase a game card, the cost is $15.
This group plays by the Official Standard Hands and Rules National Mah Jongg League Inc.

CANCELLED - Birch Bark Tray with Quill Work
2025-06-07 10:00 - 14:00
THIS CLASS HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
Birch Bark Tray with Quill Work – 2-Day Workshop with Ron PaquinSaturdays | June 7 and 14 from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | $100 per person
Join us for a unique hands-on experience in traditional Native American artistry with renowned artist Ron Paquin. In this special two-day workshop, you’ll learn how to craft a stunning birch bark tray adorned with a delicate trillium flower made from porcupine quills.
June 7: You’ll be guided through the process of shaping and stitching your birch bark tray—a foundational skill in woodland-style basketry.June 14: Return the following Saturday to learn the intricate art of quillwork. Under Ron’s expert instruction, you’ll bring your tray to life with a beautifully quilled trillium design.
Whether you’re a beginner or a returning student, this is an incredible opportunity to explore a timeless tradition and walk away with a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

Gourd Gnome Homes
2025-06-11 09:00 - 13:00
Join us for a whimsical crafting experience led by talented gourd artist Clarlyn Ledy! Unleash your creativity as you learn the art of transforming a simple gourd into an enchanting gnome home or delightful birdhouse. Clarlyn will guide you through a step-by-step process, sharing her expert techniques for painting and embellishing your creation. Perfect for all skill levels, this class promises a fun and relaxing atmosphere where you can let your imagination run wild.
Class Fee: $50, all materials included. Feel free to bring your own embellishments to personalize your gnome home even more.

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

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18869&action=ticket&action_ticket=31512

Examples of Gourd Gnome Homes for inspiration!

CANCELLED - Fabric Flowers
2025-06-11 13:00 - 16:00
Due to a lack of registrations, this class has been cancelled.
FABRIC FLOWERS CLASS (adult): Wednesday, June 11th, 1 pm – 4 pm
Bring the beauty of flowers into your home with fabric! Artist Marissa Wissner will guide you through the process of creating your own fabric flowers! Using colorful fabric, thread, and embellishments, learn how to choose and cut patterns, sew stitching techniques, and apply materials to your work. Everything for this class will be provided, so bring your enthusiasm for learning and creating! Enjoy your afternoon experience even more by bringing a friend!
Class Fee: $40/person

Birch Bark & Willow Picture Frame
2025-06-12 09:30 - 12:30
Join artist Bob Causley for a unique art class where you’ll learn how to create your own 8 x 10″ frame using birch bark and red willow. In this hands-on, make and take style class, Bob will guide you through the process of crafting a stunning frame that’s perfect for your lodge decor or cottage. All materials are included, and the cost is $55 per student. Don’t miss this opportunity to create and take home a beautiful piece of art. Sign up now to secure your spot!
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18869&action=ticket&action_ticket=32397

This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District.

Stained Glass: Flag Day
2025-06-14 10:00 - 15:00
Join us to create a beautiful stained glass flag with artist Connie Thompson. This hands-on experience is designed for all skill levels—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, you’ll leave with a beautiful piece to cherish or gift. All materials are included, so just bring your creativity and enthusiasm! The workshop will take place at the Hessel School House from 10 AM to 3 PM. With a limited class size of just 6 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and guidance throughout the day.
Class Fee: $75.00 per person.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online.

CANCELLED - Native American Beaded Cuff Bracelet
2025-06-17 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-06-18 09:00 - 17:00
Due to a scheduling conflict, this class has been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date.
Traditional Native American Beaded Cuff Bracelet
2 Full Day Workshop!
June 17 & 18 – 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Join us at Hessel School House for a captivating Native American Beaded Cuff Bracelet Workshop led by the talented Saulteaux wearable artist, Tricia Boucha. This hands-on experience invites participants of all skill levels to explore the rich tradition of Native American beadwork while crafting a unique cuff bracelet that reflects your personal style. Tricia will share her expertise in traditional techniques, guiding you through each step of the beading process, from selecting vibrant beads to assembling your masterpiece. As you create, you’ll learn about the cultural significance of beadwork in Native American heritage, allowing you to connect with the artistry and history behind this beautiful craft. All materials will be provided, ensuring you have everything you need to bring your vision to life.
Class Fee: $185 per person.
(Includes all materials and expert instruction by guest artist Tricia Boucha.)

Image shown may vary from style instructor teaches. Examples of her work are shown here.

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

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
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

Patriotic Paint & Sip
2025-06-25 17:00 - 19:00
Hessel School House is “changing it up” with an abstract painting class! Using the impasto method in acrylic, participants will paint a whimsical patriotic flag on 9 x 12 canvas board! This painting can be placed anywhere in the home and will add beauty to your décor! All materials will be provided, and artist Karen Mazzoline will guide you through the creative process. Come and enjoy an evening of painting with a friend!
$40 per student
NOTE NEW TIME FOR JUNE: – 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
To register, call 906-484-1333 or click here register online

Mixed Media Mini Books
2025-06-28 09:00 - 12:00
Unleash your creativity with author and artist Jan Kellis while you craft a one-of-a-kind mini book in this hands-on workshop! Using just one sheet of paper, you’ll learn how to fold and transform it into a six-page book, ready to be filled with your personal touch. Decorate your book with collage, acrylic paints, markers, and pens, and make it truly unique.

At just 3” x 4.5” when finished, your mini book is the perfect pocket-sized space for poetry, favorite quotes, song lyrics, or personal musings. Whether you want to create a tiny art journal, a gift for a friend, or a keepsake filled with inspiration, this workshop will guide you through the process.
All supplies included! Feel free to bring your own collage elements if you have something special you’d like to incorporate.
Join us for a fun and relaxed creative session—no experience needed!

Class fee: $35.00

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

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18869&action=ticket&action_ticket=31511

Closed for Holiday
2025-07-04 - 2025-07-05
We will be closed on July 4 & 5 to observe the holiday weekend.

Watercolor Refresher (2 day class)
2025-07-09 10:00 - 12:00
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.

Painting with Nature
2025-07-09 13:00 - 15:00
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.

Beach Landscape Tapestry Weaving
2025-07-11 09:30 - 13:30
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.
