Story Festival at Ford House
Story Festival at Ford House return this fall — a joyful celebration designed especially for young book lovers in pre-K through early elementary school. Join us on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the beautiful estate of Eleanor and Edsel Ford in Grosse Pointe Shores.
Here, children can meet storybook characters, hear professional storytellers, and dive into creative hands-on activities hosted by beloved community partners.
Why Families Love Story Festival at Ford House
Parents, grandparents, and caretakers will find this event designed with them in mind. Story Festival offers:
Live Storytelling & Performances — Beloved stories come to life with engaging storytimes and captivating performers.
Creative Crafts & Activities — Kids can explore themed crafts, interactive games, and activities inspired by classic and contemporary tales.
Character Encounters & Music — From storybook favorites to children’s music and sing-alongs, kids can interact with the stories they love.
Special Guests, Partners & Activities
Each of these interactive stations is hosted by a community partner, creating a magical day of exploration and creativity:
- Jim Gill — From 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., enjoy a lively Sing-along & Play-along Concert with nationally acclaimed musician and author Jim Gill.
Grosse Pointe Public Library — Hear The Color Monster and create expressive collages inspired by feelings.
Built to Thrive & E.C.H.O. — Celebrate mistakes with Beautiful Oops! and turn them into magnets, plus meet friends from E.C.H.O.
Literacy for Kids, Inc. & Katie Yamasaki — Design mini murals as part of a collaborative cityscape and enjoy readings by award-winning author, illustrator, and muralist Katie Yamasaki.
St. Clair Shores Public Library — Read Nature is an Artist and enjoy nature sensory play and crafts inspired by the outdoors.
The War Memorial — Explore Pete the Cat – Crayons Rock! then color Pete and friends, draw your own, and take home special crayons.
1000 Hours Outside — Become an “Anywhere Artist” with a story and creative art inspired by the world around you.
Time to Make Art — Dive into this story and enjoy a fun, hands-on activity focused on imagination and self-expression.
The Shop at Ford House — Browse a selection of children’s books and items to take the magic home.
Cost & Ticketing Info
Adults: $7
Children (age 3–17): $5
Age Guidance: Primarily recommended for children ages 7 and under.
Tickets: Purchase in advance at fordhouse.org/events/story-festival.
Event Flow & Timing
The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with activities throughout the day.
Jim Gill’s special concert takes place from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
The first floor of the historic Main Residence will be open for self-paced tours until 1 p.m., included with your ticket.
Family-Friendly Logistics
Ford House has made the day easy and welcoming for families, grandparents, and caregivers:
Parking & Entry: Parking is available in the Visitor Center lot. Vehicles enter through the Main Gate.
Strollers & Wagons: Welcome throughout the event.
Supplies: All supplies for crafts and activities are provided.
Activity Duration: Children can spend as much or as little time at each activity as they’d like.
Restrooms: Located in the Visitor Center.
Quiet Space: A quiet area inside the Visitor Center is available for children or adults with sensory processing needs. Guests can ask any staff member for assistance. Learn more about Accessibility at Ford House.
Takeaway
Story Festival is more than an event — it’s a chance to spark a lifelong love of reading, creativity, and imagination. Whether you’re a parent, a grandparent, or a caregiver, it’s an opportunity to see your child’s favorite books leap off the page and into their world.
Reserve your tickets now at fordhouse.org/events/story-festival.
